Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

MATCH PREVIEW
Berardi tests Juve

Oct 18, 2014

Winless Sassuolo will be praying for a miracle as they begrudgingly welcome a seemingly unstoppable Juventus.

Sassuolo exceeded expectations last term by avoiding the dreaded hand of the relegation reaper.

It appears more and more likely that his scythe will spell their doom this season however and an early Halloween 'trick or treat' from the Old Lady will hammer yet another nail into their Serie B bound coffin.

However, there may be a glimmer of hope further down the line, as since their 7-0 demolition by Inter in Week 2, the Neroverdi have since kept two consecutive clean sheets against Sampdoria and Fiorentina.

In the last couple of rounds they have lost to Napoli and Lazio by just the odd goal and pushed the Biancocelesti in a five goal thriller.

Juventus meanwhile march on and are on course to possibly even better their record breaking 2013-14 League campaign.

Few expected Coach Massimiliano Allegri to adapt so well to a role moulded in Antonio Conte's image, but the 3-2 win over Roma before the international break highlighted their Scudetto winning credentials.

A successful but far from perfect couple of results for the Azzurri at least sees its Bianconeri continent return in decent shape and decent spirits, even as Andrea Barzagli is still yet to recover from his lengthy heel injury.

With the rumour mill once again in full swing with regards to the future of one Arturo Vidal, it will also be interesting to see whether or not he features from the start.

Keep an eye on: Paul Pogba (Juventus) - Fresh from scoring the winner in a morale boosting friendly victory over Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal, the much coveted Frenchman will be keen to net his first League goal of the season.

Form guide: Sassuolo (L D D L L) Juventus (W W W W W)

Last season: Sassuolo 1-3 Juventus

Stat fact: In their two meetings last season, Juventus scored a combined seven goals past Sassuolo and conceded just one.

Sassuolo (probable): Consigli; Vrsaljko, Antei, Cannavaro, Longhi; Biondini, Magnanelli, Taider; Berardi, Floccari, Sansone

Suspended: Peluso

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

Suspended: Morata

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Line-ups: Sassuolo-Juventus

Oct 18, 2014

Leaders Juventus try to maintain their 100 per cent record away to Sassuolo, but take on Simone Zaza and Domenico Berardi.

The Bianconeri were three points clear at the top of the table going into this weekend, thanks to a controversial 3-2 victory over Roma.

Alvaro Morata is suspended, while Martin Caceres, Andrea Barzagli, Romulo, Luca Marrone and Arturo Vidal are injured.

There’s an important Champions League fixture coming up away to Olympiacos on Wednesday, but Juve do not rest strikers Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente.

Claudio Marchisio and Kwadwo Asamoah are given a rest following international duty.

Sassuolo’s Mapei Stadium is familiar for Massimiliano Allegri, as he took this team to promotion into Serie B early in his career and a defeat here proved the final straw for his Milan job.

The two clubs have strong ties, as Zaza and Berardi are both effectvely co-owned by Juventus.

Federico Peluso sits out a ban with Gianluca Pegolo and Lorenzo Ariaudo sidelined.

It’s good to see Francesco Acerbi starting such an important game, as he beat testicular cancer twice in the past 18 months.

Sassuolo announced they are starting to take down the barriers separating fans from the pitch, starting with tonight’s game.

Sassuolo: Consigli; Terranova, Cannavaro, Acerbi; Vrsaljko, Magnanelli, Missiroli, Longhi; Berardi, Zaza, Sansone

Sassuolo bench: Polito, Pomini, Bianco, Antei, Gazzola, Brighi, Chibsah, Biondini, Floccari, Gliozzi, Pavoletti

Juventus: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Pereyra, Evra; Llorente, Tevez

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Padoin, Asamoah, Mattiello, Marchisio, Giovinco, Coman

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Bonucci: 'A fine duel with Zaza'

Oct 18, 2014

Leonardo Bonucci expects “a fine duel” with Sassuolo striker Simone Zaza tonight and noted Juventus are in the driving seat.

This is the Bianconeri’s first match since their controversial 3-2 victory over Roma, which maintained their 100 per cent record.

“We know that we get to decide our path, because we are three points clear at the top, so it’s in our hands,” Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia.

“Roma will give us hell to the end of the season, but we must remain concentrated.”

This evening he will take on Sassuolo’s young strikers Zaza and Domenico Berardi.

“Simone is a lovely lad and a great striker. It will be a fine duel tonight.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

HT 1-1: Pogba claws Sassuolo back

Oct 18, 2014

Paul Pogba wiped out Simone Zaza’s opener and almost scored an incredible second, as Sassuolo hold Juventus at half-time.

The Bianconeri still had a 100 per cent record and a three-point lead going into the Mapei Stadium after a controversial 3-2 victory over Roma. Alvaro Morata was suspended with Martin Caceres, Andrea Barzagli, Romulo, Luca Marrone and Arturo Vidal injured. Sassuolo changed to a 3-4-3 system with Simone Zaza and Domenico Berardi, both semi-owned by Juve, but Federico Peluso sat out a ban.

There was bad news for the Neroverdi straight away, as Paolo Cannavaro pulled up with a suspected thigh strain.

Andrea Consigli parried from point-blank range on Fernando Llorente and the Roberto Pereyra follow-up was deflected over, then from the corner Leonardo Bonucci had the ball in the net only after he was flagged offside.

However, moments later Sassuolo took the lead. Bonucci performed a decisive goalline clearance on Zaza, but the move continued with Alessandro Longhi and the striker eventually fired in from eight yards. That was only the third goal Juve had conceded in Serie A all season and Zaza’s first since the opening round.

Juventus drew level with some style, as Carlos Tevez ran at the Sassuolo defence and Paul Pogba curled a magnificent finish into the far top corner, breaking his duck for the current campaign.

Angelo Ogbonna blasted over from a corner, then Stefan Lichtsteiner ran on to an Andrea Pirlo through ball to sting Consigli’s gloves. Consigli needed a double save as Pogba went on a slalom through the Sassuolo defence from his own half, then got back up to parry the acrobatic Tevez follow-up.


Sassuolo 1-1 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Zaza 13 (S), Pogba 18 (J)

Sassuolo: Consigli; Terranova, Cannavaro (Antei 9), Acerbi; Vrsaljko, Magnanelli, Missiroli, Longhi; Berardi, Zaza, Sansone

Juventus: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Pereyra, Evra; Llorente, Tevez

Ref: Banti

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Sassuolo 1-1 Juventus: Bianconeri's
winning run comes to an end

Paul Pogba cancelled out Simone Zaza's opener but the reigning
Italian champions were unable to rack up a seventh successive win.

Oct 18, 2014

Juventus dropped points for the first time in Serie A this season as they were held to a shock 1-1 draw at struggling Sassuolo on Saturday night.

Massimiliano Allegri's men claimed a sixth win from as many games prior to the international break when beating Roma 3-2, but failed to find top gear at Stadio Citta del Tricolore.

Sassuolo claimed an unlikely lead after 13 minutes through Simone Zaza, a player previously co-owned by Juventus, only for the visitors to respond swiftly courtesy of a stunning Paul Pogba strike.

However, Pogba's goal failed to spark the champions into action as they found themselves continually frustrated by a hard-working Sassuolo outfit, who climb off the foot of the table.

Roma's 3-0 win over Chievo earlier on Saturday ensures Juve's lead at the summit has been cut to one point, with Allegri likely to view this game as a missed opportunity.

Juve had won their previous 13 league matches, their last dropped points coming in a 2-0 loss at Napoli on March 30.

Sassuolo, still to win a league game this season, showed no sign of being overawed, despite some early Juventus pressure.

Fernando Llorente was first to test Andrea Consigli after 12 minutes, forcing a smart save following a teasing cross from the right, and Roberto Pereyra sent the rebound over the bar.

Juventus were left stunned by their hosts just 60 seconds later, when Zaza forced a parried save from Gianluigi Buffon, only for the ball to eventually find its way back to the 23-year old, who applied a smart finish to give his side the lead.

Sassuolo began to look more confident on the back of that goal, enjoying plenty of possession in the middle of the park as a shell-shocked Juventus initially struggled to find any rhythm.

However, the good work of the home side was undone in sublime fashion on 19 minutes as Pogba was allowed to cut inside from the left, before curling home an exquisite finish from the edge of the box.

The momentum shifted in favour of Juve for the remainder of the opening half, with Consigli forced into an impressive double save just before the break to deny Pogba and then Carlos Tevez.

However, Sassuolo nearly took the lead again after 51 minutes when Domenico Berardi, on loan from Allegri's men, saw a curling free-kick whistle past the post.

Zaza forced Buffon into a smart save 15 minutes later, but Juventus predictably demonstrated greater urgency in attack as the game approached its conclusion.

Some great work down the right by Pereyra saw him cut the ball back for substitute Kingsley Coman to scoop over, while Pogba forced a terrific save from Consigli 10 minutes later following Tevez's dinked ball into the box.

A decisive breathrough continued to elude the visitors as Sassuolo held on for an impressive point.

Juve's frustration was summed up by Simone Padoin, an unused substitute, being sent off in stoppage time.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Sassuolo end Juve record

Simone Zaza and Sassuolo pegged Juventus back to a 1-1 draw despite
Paul Pogba’s wonder-strike, so Roma are just one point behind.

Oct 18, 2014

The Bianconeri still had a 100 per cent record and a three-point lead going into the Mapei Stadium after a controversial 3-2 victory over Roma. Alvaro Morata was suspended with Martin Caceres, Andrea Barzagli, Romulo, Luca Marrone and Arturo Vidal injured. Sassuolo changed to a 3-4-3 system with Simone Zaza and Domenico Berardi, both semi-owned by Juve, but Federico Peluso sat out a ban.

There was bad news for the Neroverdi straight away, as Paolo Cannavaro pulled up with a suspected thigh strain.

Andrea Consigli parried from point-blank range on Fernando Llorente and the Roberto Pereyra follow-up was deflected over, then from the corner Leonardo Bonucci had the ball in the net only after he was flagged offside.

However, moments later Sassuolo took the lead. Bonucci performed a decisive goalline clearance on Zaza, but the move continued with Alessandro Longhi and the striker eventually fired in from eight yards. That was only the third goal Juve had conceded in Serie A all season and Zaza’s first since the opening round.

Juventus drew level with some style, as Carlos Tevez ran at the Sassuolo defence and Paul Pogba curled a magnificent finish into the far top corner, breaking his duck for the current campaign.

Angelo Ogbonna blasted over from a corner, then Stefan Lichtsteiner ran on to an Andrea Pirlo through ball to sting Consigli’s gloves. Consigli needed a double save as Pogba went on a slalom through the Sassuolo defence from his own half, then got back up to parry the acrobatic Tevez follow-up.

After the restart Berardi’s free kick whistled inches past the upright, while Buffon had to rush off his line to clear from Zaza and had his gloves stung by the young Italy striker. Claudio Marchisio came off the bench as Juve moved to a 4-3-3 system with Ogbonna at left-back.

Kingsley Coman turned over from a promising position, then Consigli again denied Pogba after a strong Tevez run. Zaza sprinted on to a smart Davide Biondini through ball in the final minutes, but was exhausted and ran out of steam before he could shoot.

Roberto Pereyra's shot was charged down deep into stoppages, but Sassuolo held firm and Simone Padoin was sent off from the bench for dissent.


Sassuolo: Consigli; Terranova, Cannavaro (Antei 9), Acerbi; Vrsaljko, Magnanelli, Missiroli (Taider 79), Longhi; Berardi, Zaza, Sansone (Biondini 70)

Juventus: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo (Giovinco 83), Pereyra, Evra (Marchisio 60); Llorente (Coman 67), Tevez

Ref: Banti

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Juventus held by lowly Sassuolo

Oct 18, 2014

Juventus's winning start to the season has come to an end after they were held to a 1-1 draw by winless Sassuolo at the Marpei Stadium this evening.

A shock was on the cards early on when Italian international Simone Zaza latched onto a pass before placing the ball beyond the reach of Gianluigi Buffon to put the hosts ahead.

Their lead lasted for just four minutes, though, with Paul Pogba finding the top corner of the net from range to level up the contest in style.

Angelo Ogbonna very nearly put the Old Lady into the lead when he tried his luck with a shot from the edge of the box, only for his effort to narrowly fly over the crossbar.

Juventus upped the pressure in search of a second before the interval, and they came close to finding it when Pogba weaved his way into the box, yet his drilled shot was well kept out by Andrea Consigli.

It proved to be a frustrating second half for the league leaders, who struggled to create any clear-cut openings throughout.

Claudio Marchisio saw his effort deflect narrowly wide of the target on the hour mark, while Kingsley Coman blazed his strike from inside the box over the crossbar.

Zaza remained a threat for Sassuolo, forcing Buffon into a save as well as putting a dangerous looking ball into the box which was eventually cleared away.

Despite throwing all that they had at their opponents in search of a winning goal, Massimiliano Allegri's charges could not find a second and so saw their 100% record this campaign come to an end.

Matters were then made even worse for Juve when Simone Padoin was shown a red card at the end of the game following an incident which took place on the substitutes' bench.

The draw lifts Sassuolo off the foot of the Serie A table, while Juve's lead at the top has been cut to just a single point.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Sassuolo 1-1 Juventus:
La Vecchia Signora Shows Her Age

Oct 18, 2014

Sassuolo hosted Juventus on Saturday evening in the Stadio Città del Tricolore and the bottom side caused a shock holding the champions to a 1-1 draw.

In a scintillating first half which was curtailed for Paolo Cannavaro after ten minutes with a thigh injury and was replaced by Luca Antei, Juventus thought they had taken the lead when Leonardo Bonucci netted but was ruled out for offside.

The half really burst into life when Simone Zaza scored after 13 minutes when a goal line clearance was Alessandro Longhi header found Zaza who eventually fired in from eight yards.

It only took six minutes for parity to be restored when Carlos Tevez found Paul Pogba on the edge of the Sassuolo box and the Frenchman hit an unstoppable shot for his first of the season.

Chances came for La Vecchia Signora as they pressed high looking to win the ball early and Pogba nearly netted his second after a weaving run through the Neroverdi defence brought out a great save from Andrea Consigli who then saved the rebound from Tevez.

The second half continued in the same vain with Juventus in control but the pace of Zaza a threat, a Domenico Barardi free kick for which Pogba was booked for conceding went inches wide and then Berardi crossed a minute later but Antei headed wide.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri then made a formation change when replacing Patrice Evra for Claudio Marchisio and went to a 4-3-3 to try and find a breakthrough.

Marchisio almost had an instant impact when he shot wide but moments later Zaza stung the palms of Gianluigi Buffon on a quick break.

The disappointing Fernando Llorente was replaced by Kingsley Coman, Tevez with his direct running still causing problems for the ever Sassuolo defence who were dropping ever deeper and Pogba failed to take advantage when he shot wide after a weaving run from the Argentinian.

Consigli in the Sassuolo goal looked comfortable with most of what was being asked but should have been beaten when Coman’s swivel shot wide wide.

Finishing the game with a back five, the bottom side held on for a valuable and memorable point.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Sassuolo end Juventus' winning run in Serie A

Oct 18, 2014

Juventus dropped their first points since March on Saturday night when they were held to a 1-1 draw at Sassuolo in a battle of bottom against top in Serie A.

Simone Zaza, on loan at Sassuolo from Juve, scored against his parent club to give the Emilia-Romagna side the lead, but Paul Pogba levelled for the Bianconeri soon after.

Juve had chances to win it but Sassuolo did not just defend and could have snatched all three points themselves at the Stadio Giglio, but a point lifts them off the foot of the table ahead of Sunday's matches.

The result means Juve failed to collect three points for the first time in Serie A since a 2-0 defeat to Napoli at the end of March.

Fernando Llorente has yet to open his account for Juventus this season and he went close to doing so after just 11 minutes, but Andrea Consigli denied him.

A minute later, the ball was in the back of Consigli's goal, but Leonardo Bonucci was in an offside position when he turned the ball in after the Sassuolo coach had denied Llorente again.

From thinking they were in front to actually falling behind, less than 60 seconds passed with Bonucci involved first in blocking Zaza's shot, but he could not help Gianluigi Buffon as he was beaten by Zaza's second shot on goal.

Sassuolo's lead lasted only six minutes before Carlos Tevez pulled the ball back for Pogba to guide in from the edge of the penalty area.

Consigli then denied Stephan Lichtsteiner, Pogba and Tevez as Juve searched for a second goal before the break.

Domenico Berardi nearly found a second goal for Sassuolo just after the break, but his free kick just missed the left-hand post.

Juve substitute Kingsley Coman spooned a shot over the crossbar with Juve's best chance of the second half, while a bad first touch from Zaza deprived him of the chance of a one-on-one with Buffon in the dying minutes.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Consigli: 'It feels like a victory'

Oct 18, 2014

Sassuolo goalkeeper Andrea Consigli admits the 1-1 draw with Juventus “feels like a victory.”

The Neroverdi were bottom of the table and are still without a win this season, but had taken the lead through Simone Zaza before Paul Pogba’s stunning equaliser.

“It was a great night against a strong side,” Consigli told Sky Sport Italia.

“We played open football, unlike most of their opponents, and put in a great performance that has to be the basis for our future matches. We want people to ask why Sassuolo are down there.”

The goalkeeper played a decisive part in this draw, particularly with a double save on Pogba and Carlos Tevez.

“I did well on Pogba and straight after Tevez, so that went well, thankfully. This game must give us a lot of belief, as we took points off Juve, who go around beating everyone.

“It might not be worth three points, but this 1-1 feels like a victory.”

This also feels like a win for Roma, who are now just one point adrift of the Serie A leaders.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Player Ratings:
Sassuolo 1-1 Juventus

Oct 18, 2014

Sassuolo earned a hard fought point against Juventus on Saturday, in the Serie A evening match at the Stadio Mapei.

A Simone Zaza strike was cancelled out by a super curled effort from Paul Pogba and despite the Bianconeri’s second half assault on the Sassuolo goal, the Neroverdi defended admirably to stop the Juventus’ run of consecutive wins.

Sassuolo

Andrea Consigli – 6.5 – Attentive - Looked back to his old ‘Atalanta’ days, making important saves and offering a degree of confidence to his defence. No chance with Pogba’s equaliser but kept everything else out.

Emanuele Terranova – 6.5 – Concentrated - Nullified Llorente and did it by sticking to the Spaniard like a limpet with some old school Italian style man marking. The proverbial rock at the back.

Paolo Cannavaro – No Vote - Pulled up with what looked like a hamstring injury after chasing Fernando Llorente. Had no option but to leave the field after only ten minutes.

Francesco Acerbi – 6 – Safe - No big errors from the ex-AC Milan man but had a hard time keeping tabs on Tevez, which sometimes he did and sometimes he didn’t.

Šime Vrsaljko – 6.5 – Threat - Not always conclusive but a definite weapon in terms of attacking the Juventus left side. Also helped his three centre backs when necessary, especially in the second half.

Francesco Magnanelli – 6.5 – Tenacious - Knitted the team together, the glue between defence and attack. Strong tackles and immediately tried to get the ball forward, the club captain put his all into his performance.

Simone Missiroli – 6.5 – Tactical - The perfect hardworking partner to Manganelli at the heart of the Sassuolo midfield. Did well to maintain Pereyra and Pogba as far away as possible from the Neroverdi goal.

Alessandro Longhi – 6 – Sacrifice - Not nearly as effective as his team mate Vrsaljko and failed to get in behind the Juve back-line. But did manage to block Stephan Lichsteiner, which is no mean achievement.

Domenico Berardi – 5.5 – Subdued - Not the Berardi we have previously seen and come to admire. His endeavour is not in question but was outshone by strike partner Zaza and, like Sansone, could not find enough space in front of the Juve defence to create.

Simone Zaza – 7 – Ubiquitous - Scored a fine goal but his performance did not end there. Dropped deep into midfield, played on the left and on the right and got booked. An almost perfect performance from the Italy striker against some of the best defenders in Serie A.

Nicola Sansone – 5.5 – Quiet - Failed to have much impact despite some neat touches and decent runs. Could not escape the marking of the Bianconeri rear guard.


Substitutes

Luca Antei after 10 mins – 6.5

Davide Biondini after 70 mins – 6

Saphir Taider after 79 mins – N/A

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon – 6 – Busy - Probably had more to do in this game than many of the previous six this season. No chance with the Zaza goal but was comfortable with everything else that was thrown at him.

Angelo Ogbonna – 6.5 – Classy - A performance to remember from the ex-Torino centre back. Well timed tackles and looked calm and comfortable despite not being a regular. A good night for him on a personal level.

Leonardo Bonucci – 6.5 – Solid - Always looks decent for his club, both defensively and going forward. Not as influential as usual in attack but his defensive duties were dispensed well.

Giorgio Chiellini – 6.5 – Towering - Typical swashbuckling display by the experienced Chiellini, cancelling out the dangerous Berardi and Sansone.

Stephan Lichsteiner – 5.5 – Phantom - Certainly one of the best wing backs in the world, but the Swiss international was unusually absent for much of the match. His incursions down the right flank were badly missed by the current league leaders.

PAUL POGBA – 7 – Titanic - A stunning strike and almost unstoppable when in full flight. The best Juve player by a margin and is fast becoming as, if not more, important to the side as the absent Arturo Vidal.

Andrea Pirlo – 6 – Tidy - Accurate passing and kept his side flowing when in possession but not a stellar performance by the Juve metronome.

Roberto Pereyra – 6 – Ordinary - Busy in midfield but sometimes wasteful in possession and gave away a few too many fouls on the night.

Patrice Evra – 5.5 – Anonymous - Some good early crosses by the full back but just doesn’t seem acclimatised to the Juventus style as yet. No real sustained impact down the left side.

Carlos Tevez – 6 – Lively - Always threatening but the three man Sassuolo defence handled the Argentine well. A good first half but was less of a danger in the second 45 minutes.

Fernando Llorente – 5 – Blunt - One shot on goal and still looks unlikely to score. Looked slow and low in confidence. Hauled off midway through second half.


Substitutes

Claudio Marchisio after 60 mins – 5.5

Kingsley Coman after 66 mins – 6

Sebastian Giovinco after 84 mins – N/A

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Di Francesco: 'How we held Juve'

Oct 18, 2014

Eusebio Di Francesco revealed his tactical approach to neutralising Juventus, which didn’t involve man-marking Andrea Pirlo.

Bottom of the table Sassuolo are still without a win this season, but held leaders Juve to a surprise 1-1 draw.

“It wasn’t unexpected for me,” Coach Di Francesco told Sky Sport Italia.

“Even if there were different qualities, our tactical changes, use of strikers to attack them and our approach shows we were not afraid of taking the game to Juventus.

“We had a great attitude and hunger, while we could’ve scored more goals. I am truly happy for the players, as they work so hard and deserved this night.”

Di Francesco is a pupil of Zdenek Zeman and the 4-3-3 system, but for this game moved to 3-4-3.

“I thought if we had played with wide wingers against Juve, we’d be in real trouble. Chiellini, who usually runs with the ball to go through the middle, found his path blocked off constantly.

“I made my three forwards work with the centre-backs and Pirlo. I chose not to man-mark Pirlo, as it would mean us losing a man. If Pirlo doesn’t have the ball, Chiellini or Bonucci will take it forward, albeit without the same quality.

“We had got ahead of ourselves this season, but I always told my lads that to compete in Serie A we could not let go of certain characteristics. After all, even Juventus have the same grit and work rate as a so-called provincial side, so why shouldn’t Sassuolo?

“We have to continue on this path and add more quality, as I saw a team that kicked the ball away too often and should’ve been sharper.”

Zaza had lost his way despite scoring on international duty, but tonight scored his first Serie A goal since the opening round.

“He had a great performance before going to the Italy camp, then used up a lot of emotional and physical energy. I had hoped to build on that enthusiasm, but instead the pressure weighed on him.

“Simone was relaxed tonight and it showed. I do want him to avoid things like the yellow card and always having his hands raised to complain to the referee, as that’s an irritating attitude. He needs to stop doing that if he wants to step up to a top club.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Allegri: Juventus weren't good enough

The Bianconeri boss had no complaints after the reigning Italian champions
dropped points for the first time this season in a 1-1 draw at Sassuolo.

Oct 18, 2014

Massimiliano Allegri admitted that Juventus had been nowhere near their best in Saturday night's surprise 1-1 draw at Sassuolo.

The reigning Italian champions had gone into the game having won their opening six Serie A fixtures and were expected to have little trouble in extending their perfect record against a side without a single victory to their name so far this season.

However, while Paul Pogba quickly cancelled out Simone Zaza's 13th-minute opener, Juve were unable to avoid dropping points for the first time and Allegri had no complaints about the final result.

"I knew it would be a difficult game, particularly because our internationals only returned on Thursday, after having played two games," the Bianconeri boss told Sky Sport Italia.

"Also, Sassuolo were coming off a period in which they were playing well despite collecting few points.

"Tonight, they put us in difficulty. We didn't play well technically and we had finished little in relation to what we created.

"We allowed them to counterattack a lot and risked a lot going forward.

"The game remained open right until the end of the game. Their goalkeeper, Andrea Consigli, made decisive saves but we could, and should, have done more."

With Roma having defeated Chievo 3-0 at the Stadio Olimpico earlier in the evening, Juve's lead at the summit of Serie A has now been cut to a single point.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Zaza: I Know Juventus
Are Looking At Me

Oct 18, 2014

Sassuolo striker Simone Zaza was satisfied after his side earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw at home to Juventus on Saturday after he opened the scoring at Mapei Stadium

The 23-year-old also spoke about his relationship with the Bianconeri as he was co-owned by the club up until June 2014.

“Did I get any compliments from Juventus tonight? I don’t know,” said Zaza to Sky Sport Italia.

“Honestly, after the game I went to celebrate with the fans and then my teammates.”

“I know that Juventus follow me and I hope that continues.”

The Italian international also spoke about Sassuolo’s attacking strengths.

“We know that our strength comes from when we are attacking, like our coach [Eusebio di Francesco] has always maintained.

“When it’s our day, we know that we can get under the skin of great teams.

“However, it is not always easy to find the right balance.”

Zaza also offered his thoughts about the Neroverdi’s chances of survival after changes made over the summer.

“Compared to last season, we have a stronger squad, a more united group and I really hope that Sassuolo can find the right form to survive comfortably.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Pereyra: Juventus Can Not Afford
To Lose Out On Three Points

Oct 18, 2014

Juventus midfielder Roberto Pereyra believes the Bianconeri can not afford slip ups if they want to reclaim the Scudetto after drawing 1-1 with Sassuolo on Saturday night.

The Bianconeri came from behind to claim a point against the minnows but the Argentine admits the reigning champions should have done more in order to try and claim victory.

“We tried to play and we had chances,” Pereyra told JTV at the end of the match.

“The three points are important and we can’t lose out on them. I want to do well but now we are thinking about the match on Wednesday as we have little time to prepare.

“We created enough chances and we can’t make mistakes as the two points we missed out on today are important.

“Regrets? In the first half a defender blocked a shot while the next one I mishit.

“Just like all the matches, the one in Athens [against Olympiacos] will be difficult as three points are needed.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

FOURFOURTWO

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Sassuolo draw changes nothing, says Allegri

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri insists his side remain confident
in their Serie A title bid, despite a frustrating 1-1 draw at Sassuolo.

Oct 18, 2014

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri insists his side remain confident in their Serie A title bid, despite a frustrating 1-1 draw at Sassuolo.

The Italian champions had Paul Pogba to thank midway through the first half, with the Frenchman producing a stunning curling effort to cancel out Simone Zaza's opener.

But a disappointing performance saw Juve fail to make a decisive breakthrough against a resolute Sassuolo defence.

Despite that Allegri insists he is not worried by the lack of cutting edge shown by his side on Saturday evening.

Allegri told Sky Sport Italia: "I knew there were difficulties in this game, especially as we had so many internationals out all week. Sassuolo were coming off some bad results but with good performances.

"They created problems for us tonight, we didn't have many shots on goal and this allowed them to get several counter-attacks. They pushed us back and made us run risks, even though Consigli saved them a few times. We should've done better.

"The draw must be accepted considering the performance and what didn't go right this evening."

However, despite his own side's shortcomings, Allegri insisted Sassuolo deserved credit for their performance, which saw the lift themselves off the bottom of the table.

He added: "Sassuolo deserve credit for forcing us to play differently and making life difficult for us. We struggled at the start, then got the game in hand but overall didn't have enough shots on goal, even from distance."

Despite losing their 100 per cent record, Allegri claims his side are still confident of successfully defending their Serie A title.

"We are still top of the table and a draw against Sassuolo doesn't change anything. In Serie A you need consistency, so if in each seven games we win six and draw one, we'll get the title!"

Allegri will hope his side can return to winning ways when they host Palermo next weekend, a side they've beaten in four of their previous meetings, without conceding a goal.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Ogbonna: Juventus Needed To Take
The Field With Another Mentality

Oct 18, 2014

Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna believes his side did not have the mentality needed to claim all three points after their 1-1 draw with Sassuolo on Saturday.

The Bianconeri were held to single point away from home but Ogbonna was adamant the champions should have done more in order to try and claim all three points.

“There is a lot of regret over not having won,” the defender told Mediaset Premium after the draw.

“We had to take the field with another mentality and in that case maybe we would have gone home with something more.

“We have a lot of matches ahead of us and we will try to do our best.

“Physical decline? I don’t believe so, we gave our all. We had our chances and we needed to be more concrete.

“We will go forward on our own path and we don’t care about other controversy. Our strength is to only care about what is going on in our house.

“Simone Zaza? I expected a match from him like that. He is a great player who can grow,” he continued to JTV.

“It wasn’t just him as his offensive partners could have given us trouble.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Player Ratings

Oct 18, 2014

Sassuolo

47 A. Consigli - Made several top saves to keep the likes of Pogba and Tevez at bay in the second half.

26 E. Terranova - Dug in when the hosts had their backs to the wall, putting up a good enough resistance to keep Juve out.

28 P. Cannavaro - Pulled up with what looked like a hamstring injury after chasing Fernando Llorente. Had no option but to leave the field after only nine minutes.

15 F. Acerbi - Part of the ruck of green and black shirts which populated the edge of the Sassuolo area in the second half, picking up a cynical yellow card when required.

11 Š. Vrsaljko - Tireless down the right-hand side, tracking back effectively as well as contributing in advanced areas.

4 F. Magnanelli - Sat in front of the back three to ensure that the likes of Pereyra and Pogba had limited space to race into.

7 S. Missiroli - Worked hard in midfield to close down passing lanes and ensure that Juve had a frustrating afternoon.

3 A. Longhi - Sat back to ensure that Lichtsteiner was limited to only a couple of half chances.

25 D. Berardi - Quiet in the first half and offered little other than curling a free kick narrowly wide of the upright, but offered impressive work rate.

10 S. Zaza - Turned home a well-weighted finish by clipping a finish into the top left corner and used his physical presence to unsettle the Juve defence.

17 N. Sansone - Full of running and acted as an outlet to aim for throughout the game, though he had no real end product.


Substitutes

5 L. Antei - Stayed tight to his men at set pieces and was good enough aerially to battle in a besieged defence.

19 S. Taïder - Introduced late on and helped to tighten up a determined midfield.

8 D. Biondini - Offered fresh legs and battling spirit in a tiring midfield.

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - Commanded his area quite well and put in a couple of impressive blocks.

5 A. Ogbonna - Made a couple of good interceptions in dangerous areas and challenged well in the opposition penalty area.

19 L. Bonucci - Didn't have the most solid of outing, as Zaza proved to be more than a physical match for the Italy international.

3 G. Chiellini - Strong in the air and personified Juve's fighting spirit and determination while battling late on.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - Broke down the right readily, testing Consigli on a couple of occasions, as well as tracking back throughout.

6 PAUL POGBA - Netted a fantastic goal and went incredibly close to finding a second. Juventus' main offensive catalyst.

21 A. Pirlo - Made a few uncharacteristic errors and wasn't afforded the space to have a real effect on proceedings.

37 R. Pereyra - Confident on the ball and drove forward with regularity to ensure that Juve threatened until the very end.

33 P. Evra - Struggled physically against a pacey Sassuolo counter attack, and didn't offer anything offensively.

14 Llorente - Quiet throughout, as the Spaniard wasn't given the time nor space to bring his strike partner into play.

10 C. Tévez - Slightly selfish at times, but went close on a couple of occasions as Juve searched for an elusive winner.


Substitutes

11 K. Coman - Had a few chances from deep in the penalty area, but only managed to strike the side netting.

8 C. Marchisio - Went close within moments of coming on and offered additional energy.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Sassuolo 1-1 Juventus: Bianconeri
held in frustrating trip to Mapei Stadium

Juventus will rue their missed chances from the first half as they dropped
points for the first time this season in Serie A at bottom-placed Sassuolo.

Oct 19, 2014

Wasn’t it great to see Juventus playing again after a two-week break from proper football? Well, at least in the first half it was. I kind of expected the Old Lady to come home with the three points from the red lantern Sassuolo, even if quite a few players have been on international duty. It wasn’t to be, though, and after failing to go ahead in the first half, Juventus created next-to-nothing during a lackluster second half performance, as Eusebio Di Francesco got his tactics right.

Considering Carlos Tévez scored four goals in his two games against Sassuolo last year, you would have expected him to bag in a few more. Also, with Alvaro Morata suspended, out-of-form Fernando Llorente got another chance to finally get off the mark this season, as he was picked ahead of Sebastian Giovinco — who made two appearances for Italy during the international break — and Kingsley Coman. But still, the Spaniard failed to deliver, again. Wasting good chances has become a bit of a habit nowadays for the Bianconeri and this problem needs to be solved. Morata, anyone?

Much have been said before the game about the striking partnership of Simoze Zaza and Domenico Berardi — two potential Juventus players — and rightly so. Zaza found the net again, as he did in the same fixture last year, while Berardi was inches away to score from a direct firee-kick. The young, promising duo didn’t fail to impress us again, unfortunately. Their performances should only increase this season, with Juventus keeping a close eye on both of them.

Despite the draw, it was great to see Roberto Pereyra successfully covering Arturo Vidal's role again and Paul Pogba back to his best. The Frenchman didn't show too much so far this season, but he would have almost single-handedly beat Sassuolo, if goalkeeper Andrea Consigli wouldn't have found himself in such a good form. More of the same from Pogba, together with an inexhaustible Tévez and an in-form Vidal should bring Juventus more glory this season, without doubt.

The Old Lady must put behind this negative result — two points have been lost and that is it. There is no need to overreact or talk about a slump. Allegri has to mount his players for the tricky upcoming away fixture in the Champions’ League against Olympiakos. He has done it previously ahead of that Roma game, after the Atletico set-back. Winning in Greece would give Juventus a huge advantage — let’s see it happening.


MATCH SUMMARY

The first half started at a pedestrian pace and it took 10 minutes until Juventus created the first chance of the game. Pogba’s cross from the left flank found Llorente in the box but his deflected ball was saved by Sassuolo goalkeeper Andrea Consigli. From the resulting corner, Leonardo Bonucci tapped the ball in from close range only to be correctly flagged offside by the assistant referee.

Seconds later, Sassuolo opened the scoring. Zaza found himself unmarked near the 6-yard-box but his initial shot was blocked by Bonucci. Juventus’ defence couldn’t properly clear the ball and Zaza coolly deflected Alessandro Longhi’s volley past his international teammate Gianluigi Buffon, into the side netting.

After just five minutes, the Bianconeri pulled level by virtue of some Pogba brilliance and Tévez industry. The Argentine chased what appeared to be a lost ball, recovered it on the by-line and laid it at the edge of the box for the young Frenchman who, after a short touch, placed a fantastic shot at the far post, giving an idle Consigli no chance.

After another 20 minutes of play in which Juventus controlled the game, with both Angelo Ogbonna and Stephan Lichtsteiner missing decent chances and referee Luca Banti not pointing to the spot when Pogba was brought down in the penalty area, the French youngster stepped up again to deliver another moment of magic. Receiving the ball just inside his own half, he embarked on a great run straight down the middle of the pitch, muscling his way through in style. Having beaten several defenders on his way, Pogba’s low shot from 11 yards was saved by Consigli, who made another good save seconds later to deny Tévez’s volley.

The last action of the first half saw Pereyera linking up with Bonucci and Pogba at the edge of the box, but the Argentine placed his shot wide and the teams went to the locker rooms at the break with nothing to separate them.

The second half started in a similar slow tempo as the first, with Sassuolo having the first good chance. Pogba conceded a free-kick at the edge of the box and received a yellow card for the foul. Berardi stepped-up to take it and curled his effort just wide of Buffon’s left-hand post.

Juventus failed to create anything dangerous and Allegri changed replaced Patrick Evra with Claudio Marchisio on the hour mark, changing the system to a 4-3-1-2. Kingsley Coman came in for Llorente and wasted a decent chance to put Juventus ahead with 20 minutes left to play, as he shot over the bar from just outside the 6-yard-box, after a good cross from Pereyra.

With Buffon only making a couple of routine saves, the last part of the game was played mainly in Sassuolo’s half, but with no positive results for the Old Lady. Pogba received a ball inside the box from Tévez, 15 minutes from time, but couldn’t get enough power behind his shot and Conisgli pushed it away for a corner kick.

Juventus couldn’t break Sassuolo’s defence eventually, with Pereyra wasting a final chance in injury time when his shot from 16 yards was blocked by onrushing defenders. The Bianconeri’s frustration was there to be seen, as Bonucci received a late yellow card for arguing with the referee, while Simone Padoin, who was an unused substitute, saw a straight red from Banti — God knows why.


LE PAGELLE

Buffon: 6 Was called into action a few times, making routine saves. Had nothing to do to prevent Zaza from scoring.

Ogbonna: 7 Playing better with each passing game. Solid in the centre of defence and also did a decent job when moved to the left flank.

Bonucci: 6.5 Won all his aerial duels and gave Zaza a hard time throughout the match.

Chiellini: 6 Poor marking when Juventus conceded, but put in a couple of good tackles when needed.

Lichtsteiner: 6 Very poor clearance at Zaza’s goal, as he headed the ball straight to Longhi. Wasn’t involved in attack too much either.

Pereyra: 7 Another spirited display from the Argentine who contributed in both attack and defence pretty good. Lacked the finishing touch, as he missed two decent chances.

Pirlo: 6 An uncharacteristic sloppy performance. Showed signs of tiredness, losing the ball in midfield on a few occasions.

Pogba: 8 Definitely his best game of the season so far. Dominated the midfield, scoring a great goal. Should have scored following his individual run, though.

Evra: 5 Terrible display from the wing-back. Lost his man who crossed at Sassuolo’s goal and failed to backtrack in time. Brought nothing in attacking moves.

Tévez: 7.5 Was the main danger in attack again — never stopped running into spaces to create chances. Great effort to produce the assist for Pogba.

Llorente: 5.5 Another frustrating day for the Spaniard. His hold-up play was somehow decent in the first half, but couldn’t create anything.

Subs

Marchisio: 6 Played the last 30 minutes but couldn’t make an impact as the struggled to find a key pass.

Coman: 6.5 The young forward tried too much on his own, although he gave some extra speed to attack.

Giovinco: 6.5 Clearly frustrated to be introduced so late in the game, but had time to send in two decent crosses.


Coach

Allegri: 6 Not having a fully fit, rested squad at his disposal might be an excuse for him, but dropping points at the bottom-placed team is a bad result nonetheless. Insisting with Llorente in the starting XI was an odd decision, with both Giovinco and Coman eager to demonstrate. Although he made the first two changes quite early, the players couldn’t break the opposite defence, as there never seemed to be a clear idea of what to do with the ball in the final third.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Draw with Sassuolo proves Juventus need
more tactical work under Allegri

Oct 19, 2014

Spitting in the face of every cliche used to describe Serie A, the 1-1 match between Sassuolo and Juventus at the Mapei Stadium was played at a thrilling tempo and demonstrated that not even Serie A's bottom placed team is willing to sit back and absorb. On the contrary, rarely have we seen a side as courageous both tactically and physically as Eusebio Di Francesco's team.

Opting to deploy a 3-4-3 formation, their first priority was to ensure they disturbed Juve's usual style of play. That meant blocking off their favoured routes to goal. Suffocating their opponents, especially at the start of the match, Juventus had such little space to operate and no time to think, rushing their movements in order to escape their markers.

The Old Lady was suffering. The Neroverdi were working incredibly hard to press their opponent, leaving Andrea Pirlo little room to make his mark. When this occurs, it's up to the alternatives: the likes of Giorgio Chiellini to push forward, running through the middle or Leonardo Bonucci to dispatch the passes, but even these passages to goal were effectively closed down.

On the wings, Stephan Lichtsteiner was offered little opportunity to provide his usual performance while Patrice Evra not only provided little going forward but was perhaps culpable for Simone Zaza's goal. Inattentive, he allowed Sime Vrsaljko to deliver a ball into the box that eventually resulted in the goal. This is not a man at the peak of his career and should always play second fiddle to Kwadwo Asamoah.

Zaza scored the opener to relieve the pressure that had been building. Regaining his confidence, his exceptional work in both phases of the game was a delight to watch. His side were now in the lead.

It took a marvellous combination of tenacity and pure technique to get the Bianconeri their equaliser. Carlos Tevez, ever the hard worker, fought off the opponent to keep possession and deliver for Paul Pogba to dispatch a beautiful strike. An equaliser that perfectly defines Juventus - a tenacious squad with superior quality.

By the 38th minute Juve had now settled into the game and gained the upper hand and began to demonstrate exactly how to escape the stifling pressure of their opponent. With Pirlo desperate to keep the ball, his teammates surrounded him ensuring he kept possession, drawing in their markers to create a cluster of players in the middle. It was then that he managed a quick pass into space for the onrushing Lichtsteiner that allowed Juve to come close to their second.

This led to a wonderful set of attempts in which Massimiliano Allegri's men pushed Sassuolo to their limits, using the quality of their individuals to make the difference. That lovely piece of play was quickly followed up by Tevez again finding some space on the right before cutting in and evading his markers to deliver a delicious pass to Roberto Pereyra who mis-kicked.

Less than a minute later Pogba dispossessed a player to run straight through to goal, shielding the ball with his strength and allowing his technique to shine. A player of tremendous ability, it was a shame he couldn't finish off his chance as Andrea Consigli managed to save with his feet. Bouncing off and landing by Tevez, the Argentine shot at goal only for the brave goalkeeper to pull off another excellent save.

Sadly, the Old Lady couldn't manage a second. With Fernando Llorente struggling and Pereyra managing to perfectly squander all that lay before him, the result remained 1-1.

On the 60th minute, you heard Allegri call to Angelo Ogbonna, telling him 'to make four'. Claudio Marchisio came on in place of Evra and the ex-Torino defender moved to the left. The change in formation was designed to allow for more attacking impetus, and with Kingsley Coman on, it was evident Allegri wanted pace up front, swift movements to provoke the disciplined opponent into a mistake.

In truth little changed. Due to the fact that this change in formation appears to be Allegri's go-to move when his side are suffering, it's essential his men are aware of their duties when playing this particular shape. Instead, there was a clear lack of fluency, of cohesion.

The sheer reason Allegri was chosen to take over from Conte was so that he could create a more tactically complete side. It is indeed wise not to change too much, but he must also show courage and introduce his own ideas while maintaining the squad's intensity. One can deduce from recent games that the coach is perhaps fearful to change tactics in case it results in a loss of identity. It will be up to him to transmit his own ideals, his own strategy but ensure his men still have a strong sense of identity -- something they lost the moment they changed to a back four against Sassuolo.

The reason Juventus have been the team to beat is due to the players' understanding of their role, their duties, enabling them to work well together, boasting chemistry. One can only guarantee future success if this remains the case but the squad must also evolve tactically. Allegri has to show he's up to the task, starting with a win against Olympiakos on Wednesday.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Sassuolo vs. Juventus: Winners
and Losers from Serie A Game

Oct 19, 2014

With a two-week international break behind them, Juventus returned to domestic action with a trip to the league’s bottom side, Sassuolo.

Despite having failed to win a single game in 2014-15, the Emilia-Romagna minnows are a widely respected club, boasting some of the peninsula’s finest young talents.

The Bianconeri knew they also faced a tricky midweek trip to Greece just four days after the encounter, Olympiacos awaiting the Italian champions on Wednesday. Combined with the short preparation time, due to the national-team commitments of many players, Massimiliano Allegri knew his team selection would play a major role.

Finding a balance between Serie A and the Champions League has proven to be beyond the club in recent seasons, and Juventus will be hoping to make a much better impression in Europe this term. For Turin’s grand Old Lady, however, the demand is to record victories consistently in every competition, and as such, Saturday's draw will seem like a failure.

Over the following pages is a look at the winners and losers from this 1-1 stalemate, highlighting the best and worst performances at the Mapei Stadium on Saturday.


Winner: Paul Pogba (Juventus)

The Juventus goalscorer was Paul Pogba, the French midfielder finding an equaliser with yet another outside-of-the-box strike. As well as salvaging a point in difficult circumstances for the Bianconeri, the goal was also his first of the campaign.

According to the club's official Twitter account, the goal was the 21-year-old's 13th league goal for the Turin giants and eighth from long range.


Winner: Simone Zaza (Sassuolo)

As discussed in the preview for this encounter, there were a number of Sassuolo players who came into the match with a point to prove. One of the major names among them was Italy international Simone Zaza, the 23-year-old for whom Juventus retain a right-to-buy clause.

Having made his international debut earlier this season, Zaza's reputation has grown exponentially, and his goal against the Serie A champions will only serve to increase his profile. It was his second goal of the campaign and earned a vital point for his struggling side.


Loser: Simone Padoin (Juventus)

While it may seem harsh to single out an unused substitute, Simone Padoin did himself no favours at the Mapei Stadium on Saturday. The Juventus midfielder was sent off from the bench, his level of dissent deemed intolerable by the match officials.

According to stats site WhoScored.com, the 30-year-old has just 105 minutes to his name so far this term and will now serve a ban. That will see him unable to help the Bianconeri in the coming weeks, a time when Allegri needs every player in order to keep his side fresh as they try to cope with the demands of Serie A and Champions League action.


Winner: Eusebio Di Francesco (Sassuolo)

Without a win from their opening six fixtures, Sassuolo coach Eusebio Di Francesco could be forgiven for feeling under a little bit of pressure going into the game with Juventus. While that winless streak may have continued on Saturday, overseeing the first side to take points from the reigning champions in the league this season will have undoubtedly eased the tension.

The 45-year-old should be hugely proud of the performance from his players, who were reshuffled into an unfamiliar 3-4-3 formation to which they adapted well.

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

[Socrates 8056]

SASSUOLO 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

-

Simone Zaza (13')

Paul Pogba (19')

Saturday, October 18th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Stadium - Reggio Emilia
Referee: Luca Banti

Bonucci: Juventus Have No Excuses For Sassuolo
Draw, Now We Focus On Champions League

Oct 19, 2014

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has revealed that the Old Lady have no excuses for their away draw with Sassuolo and are now fully concentrated on their Champions League meeting with Olympiacos on Wednesday.

The Bianconeri had to settle for a point as the Neroverdi ended the reigning Serie A champions’ winning streak with a 1-1 draw on Saturday but the 27-year-old insists that the Italian side will stage a comeback beginning with a European victory over Thrylos in Greece.

Bonucci spoke through his official website on Sunday about the result against Sassuolo and was adamant that Juventus will now give their all in order to bounce back against Olympiacos, with the objective of eventually making it to the Champions League final.

“There are no excuses,” said the Italian international. “The game between Juventus and Sassuolo was a game where we should have won more than a point.

“However, last season we also had to win against Fiorentina and ended up losing, but that was the turning point of our season.

“So we will do the best we can after this draw and give 110 per cent. We’ve taken a step back but now we’re ready to jump forward more than ever!

“We expect to make it to the final of the Champions League and I think that this is just the right time to show we can do it.

“We will go to Athens more hungry to win than ever. Atletico Madrid have lost to them. We have only one goal: to win.

“So as always, may the best man win. Fino alla fine, Forza Juventus.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Vidal to return for Olympiacos

Oct 20, 2014

Arturo Vidal could replace Andrea Pirlo for Juventus’ trip to Olympiacos, while Alvaro Morata is in line for a first start, according to reports.

The Bianconeri are in Greece for the third matchday of the Champions League in a Group A with all four teams level on three points.

The giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, La Stampa and Tuttosport all report that Pirlo’s performance in Saturday’s draw at Sassuolo could open the door for the Chilean’s return to the side in his place.

Vidal was not included in the squad for the Bianconeri’s trip to Sassuolo, with Coach Massimiliano Allegri believing the 27-year-old was tired after international duty, and would be better served recuperating in Turin.

However, a six-goal showing in a practice game in training may have impressed the Coach enough to restore Vidal to the starting line-up.

While La Stampa reports that Vidal’s return will be facilitated by Pirlo dropping out, Tuttosport believes Claudio Marchisio will be the player who makes way.

In addition, Fernando Llorente has been struggling with a back injury, and La Stampa, giornalaccio rosa dello Sport and Tuttosport have all speculated that compatriot Alvaro Morata will make his first Juventus start in Piraeus after his summer transfer from Real Madrid.

Angelo Ogbonna, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini are expected to retain their places in defence while Martin Caceres and Andrea Barzagli remain sidelined, and Kwadwo Asamoah is likely to replace Patrice Evra at left-wing-back.


Probable Juventus XI to face Olympiacos: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Morata

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8056]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Allegri Yet To Decide On Juventus’
Starting Lineup For Match Against Olympiacos

Oct 20, 2014

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has yet to decide on whether to risk Fernando Llorente in their Champions League game with Olympiakos on Wednesday.

The 47-year-old takes the Bianconeri to Greece, pondering if Llorente’s back problem will prevent him from joining Carlos Tevez in attack.

According to Sky Sport Italia, the selection will be made as late as possible with Alvaro Morata the alternative option.

Also on the Juventus coach’s mind will be how to deploy Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo, with the latter picked for Saturday’s draw at Sassuolo.

Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal are both expected to start and take up more advanced central midfield roles.

Juventus go into the clash with Olympiakos top of Group A on goal difference, with each side having a win and a loss from their opening two games.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8056]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Preview: Olympiacos vs. Juventus

Oct 20, 2014

Juventus travel to Olympiacos in the Champions League on Wednesday with Group A shaping up to be a tightly-contested affair.

Juve, Olympiacos, Atletico Madrid and Malmo all have three points after two matches, but it is the Italian champions who top the table on goal difference.

Massimiliano Allegri's side head into the game having surrendered their winning start to the new Serie A season on Saturday with a 1-1 draw away to Sassuolo.

Olympiacos, who currently sit in fourth place in their domestic table, are in good form at the moment thanks to five victories from their last seven matches in all competitions.

Andrea Barzagli, Romulo and Martin Caceres are all sidelined for the visitors, while Arturo Vidal is also unlikely to feature. Olympiacos defender Ioannis Maniatis is one booking away from a suspension.


Recent form

Olympiacos: WWWLLW

Juventus: WWWLWD


Possible starting lineups

Olympiacos: Jiminez; Salino, Botia, Avlonitis, Masuaku; Maniatis, Milivojevic; Fuster, Dominguez, Durmaz; Mitroglou

Juventus: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pereyra, Pogba, Evra; Pirlo; Tevez, Llorente


Sports Mole says: 0-2

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166