Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese - Juventus
MATCH PREVIEW

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/preview/70015

Jan 15, 2016
 
Juventus are looking for their 10th straight league victory when they visit Udinese in a crucial showdown on Sunday afternoon.

The Bianconeri have managed to wipe away an abysmal start to the season by going on a remarkable run. With their defeat of Sampdoria, Max Allegri's men have managed to pull off nine consecutive victories and climb to within two points of the top of the table. The club's last defeat in league competition came back on October 28 against Sassuolo.

Juventus will be extra motivated on Sunday against Udinese, after losing to the Zebrette in the opening match of the season. However, last year's Champions League finalists were a different team back then, and have now been able to regain the stellar form they showed over the past four seasons.

Udinese will be no easy task though, as they've now won two of their last three league matches.

It has been a rather difficult campaign for Stefano Colantuono's side. While the club sit a comfortable nine points above the relegation zone, they have still lost an abysmal nine games during the first half of the season.

Udinese's biggest issue this year has been finding the back of the net. Only Carpi and Hellas Verona have scored less goals than them, with just 18 on the season so far. While Cyril Thereau has netted a respectable six goals this season, just two other players on the squad have three or more.

Juventus come into Sunday's contest as the clear-cut favourites, but Udinese will be eager to shock the defending champions for the second time this season.


Keep an eye on: Paul Pogba (Juventus) — The Frenchman has netted in three of Juventus' last four matches in all competitions, and will be full of confidence after being the only Serie A player to make the FIFA FIFPro World XI.


Form Guide: Udinese (L W W L L) Juventus (W W W W W)

Last Round: Juventus 0-1 Udinese

Stat Fact: The last time Udinese beat Juventus at Stadio Friuli was back in April, 2010.


Udinese (probable):
Karnezis; Piris, Danilo, Felipe; Widmer, Badu, Lodi, Fernandes, Adnan; Perica, Thereau

Suspended: None


Juventus (probable):
Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Marchisio, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala

Suspended: None

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

UDINESE VS JUVENTUS MATCH PREVIEW

http://www.juvefc.com/udinese-vs-juventus-preview-and-scouting/?

Jan 16, 2016
 

Juventus

In the last weekend, Juventus defeated Sampdoria and stretched the winning streak to nine games: it is an achievement that should not be underappreciated. In the final minutes of the Sunday games we suffered a little too much and we should have not have conceded after that Alvaro Morata blew a golden opportunity to seal the game, but, as long as the team is playing good enough to win, everything is fine. This is a remarkable display of strength by Juventus, which have now reached Inter in the standings and trail only to Napoli. Nerazzurri and Maurizio Sarri’s side, which is playing splendid football and have the hottest striker in Serie A, are very good teams, but I think that once Juventus will take the lead, it will be extremely difficult to keep up with them.

Every win adds a little burden and that is why only élite team can put together long winning streaks. Bianconeri will eventually be picked off by somebody because of a defensive lapse or an unfortunate game where they can not put the game in the net. However, thanks to these victories in a row they have re-joined the title picture (they were never out in my opinion, despite what many pundits were saying) and they are heavy favourites to win the title.

Even though the opponents were not great, this is a pretty rough part of the schedule since it is the third away match in four games. Juventus squeaked by against Carpi and Sampdoria and now they face Udinese, an opponent that came away with three points from the Stadium in August: a lucky result since they spent the game sitting back and basically scored at their first attempt, but as we know there were deep issues with the team at the beginning of the season.

Alvaro Morata skipped a practice because of the flu but he has returned, however Mario Mandzukic is now available, he was on the bench at Marassi too, so the battle to start alongside Paulo Dybala is wide open. We will see if Massimiliano Allegri will go with the best couple, which right now features the Croatian striker, or if he will try to boost the Spaniard’s confidence by giving him more playing time and a chance to snap out of his slump. Simone Zaza is unlikely to start, but it is funny how, after months of borderline disdain for the guy, on Sunday many fans on Twitter were clamouring for him to be subbed in.

Claudio Marchisio will return and anchor the midfield: Hernanes has at least not been hurtful against Sampdoria, but I do not know if the coach will insist with this reclamation project: I do not see the Brazilian being part of long-term plans. Sami Khedira played his best game since coming back from the injury and Paul Pogba is in a stellar moment. Stephen Lichtsteiner and Patrice Evra were the full backs against Sampdoria, which made the lineup pretty defensive: the duo might be confirmed against a team that has its biggest strength on the flanks.

There is no indication that Andrea Barzagli is ready to play tise game, so it will once again come down to Daniele Rugani or Martin Caceres. The rumours on the Uruguayan defender leaving have intensified, he has an expiring contract so the management might look to cash in a little on him instead of losing him for nothing. I would not mind a departure: he is a nice player, quite energetic and versatile, but dependability is a big factor for a backup and he is injured most of the time and has had his share of off-field issues. It is rare that selling a centre-back comes back to hunt you, anyway I would not give him to another Italian team.
 

Probable lineup 3-5-2:
 
Buffon; Rugani, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichsteiner, Khedira, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Mandzukic, Dybala.
 

Injuries:

Barzagli (calf), Pereyra (hamstring), Lemina (knee).

Suspended:

None.

 Udinese

Udinese are not having a great season but they remain much better than most of the low-table teams so they are destined to have a boring season and finish in the middle of the pack. Gone are the days of the exciting Guidolin-led Udinese’s sides full of brilliant prospects set to make the ownership rich in the following transfer windows: the Pozzo family is focusing on Watford and who can blame them?

Anyway, I think this was their goal when they hired the former Atalanta coach: they gambled with Andrea Stramaccioni in the previous season and the choice did not pay off, so they went for somebody who could guarantee the permanence in Serie A without sweating too much but also has not any upside.

Their two brightest young players, Duvan Zapata and Stipe Perica, are on loan from Udinese and Chelsea respectively, their latest find Ali Adnan has been buried on the bench by Stefano Colantuono for performance reasons and also Bruno Fernandes and Silvan Widmer have blended in the dullness of the rest of the squad.

They use 3-5-2 too: their main threats are Widmer and Edenilson, two wing backs who have great motor. Edenilson missed the last game because he was fatigued but he should be ready for this one, if he is not Ali Adnan would take his spot on the left.

Antonio Di Natale stressed during the week that this will probably be his last game against Juventus, the team he once refused to join, so I guess he will start despite being benched more often than not in the last few games. At this point, the question is not whether Totò will retire in 2016 but if he will finish the season. Now that Zapata is back and Perica is scoring, they actually have a decent attack. Among the other options, Cyril Thereau is the most likely to be Di Natale’s sidekick in the attack.

Bruno Fernandes has been starting recently as box-to-box midfielder but Manuel Iturra is the favourite to play in the midfield, alongside Emmanuel Badu and Francesco Lodi, to add some muscles. Thomas Heurtaux is still not all the way back from a nagging knee injury: Molla Wague should keep his spot in the starting XI, with Danilo and Felipe. They are not missing any major player.

Probable lineup 3-5-2:
 
Karnezis; Wague, Danilo, Felipe; Widmer, Badu, Lodi, Iturra, Edenilson; Thereau, Di Natale.
 

Injuries:

Merkel (knee), Pasquale (foot), Domizzi.

Suspended:

None.

 

Formation

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese vs. Juventus: Team News, Predicted Lineups

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2606780-udinese-vs-juventus-team-news-predicted-lineups-live-stream-tv-info?

Jan 16, 2016
 
Victories over Hellas Verona and Sampdoria meant that Juventus began the new year the way they ended 2015, piling up the wins to maintain their bid for a fifth consecutive Serie A title. The Turin giants have now triumphed in each of their last nine league outings, and coach Massimiliano Allgeri’s side will face Udinese brimming with confidence.

Going into the next round of fixtures, the Bianconeri have shrugged off their poor early form, starting the weekend just two points behind leaders Napoli. The same cannot be said for their opponents, however, the Stadio Friuli-based side losing all but two of their last six outings and looking devoid of ideas.

"Serie A is a bad customer," Udinese boss Stefano Colantuono lamented at a recent press conference, per Football Italia, and he will hope his players can quickly improve to prevent them falling any further down the table.

That is likely to prove difficult against a resurgent Juventus, with captain Gigi Buffon still not satisfied with his team’s progress and demanding more from them in a recent interview with Mediaset Premium.

"Today we’re second, but if we look back on past seasons, that’s not the position we’ve been fighting for, so we need to improve," the goalkeeper said, per his club’s official website. "We’ve strung together a series of wins that we need to ensure lasts a bit longer."

OptaPaolo ✔ @OptaPaolo
5 - Udinese's last 5 Serie A goals have been scored by Cyril Théréau (3) or Stipe Perica (2). Synergy.

Their form has much improved, and now they face a team who beat them earlier in the campaign, Cyril Thereau’s second-half goal enough to earn Udinese a win at Juventus Stadium. Discussing the start his side made to 2015/16—taking just one point from their opening three games—Allegri was extremely candid when asked which of those matches he’d like to replay.

"The first one with Udinese," the Juve boss told Sky Italia (h/t Football Italia), "because we were too frenetic and played well for 77 minutes, then conceded the decisive goal on their only attempt."

On Sunday, the reigning Serie A champions will have the chance to make amends, and they will certainly need to take it if they are to keep up the pressure on the teams who have joined them in the title hunt.

 

Probable Formations

Udinese: (3-5-2):

Orestis Karnezis; Papa Wague, Danilo, Felipe; Silvan Widmer, Emmanuel Badu, Francesco Lodi, Manuel Iturra, Edenilson; Cyril Thereau, Antonio Di Natale

Unavailable: Alexander Merkel, Giovanni Pasquale, Maurizio Domizzi (all injured)


Juventus (3-5-2):

Gigi Buffon; Daniele Rugani, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini; Stephan Lichtsteiner, Sami Khedira, Claudio Marchisio, Paul Pogba, Alex Sandro; Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala

Unavailable: Andrea Barzagli, Mario Lemina, Rubinho and Roberto Pereyra (all injured)


Player to Watch

With some huge matches against the likes of AS Roma, Napoli and Bayern Munich looming on the horizon, Juventus will need their best players to shine if they are to continue their recent good progress.

Alvaro Morata certainly falls within that group, the striker essential to the Bianconeri as they enjoyed great success in all competitions last term. The 23-year-old netted crucial goals just when his side needed them but has failed to match that production thus far in the current campaign.

Indeed, his poor form was fully on display against Sampdoria last weekend, as discussed in this previous post. His last goal came in early October, but Allegri recently told Mediaset Premium that he is not worried about the former Real Madrid man’s lack of confidence.

"Was Morata sad? He has no reason to be sad. The sadder one feels, the less well things go," the Juve boss said (h/t Football Italia). "Let’s not forget Morata scored two decisive goals for Champions League qualification. Every campaign has ups and downs and he is working for the team."


Key Battle

If Morata is struggling to make an impact for the Turin giants, the same certainly cannot be said of Alex Sandro, the Brazilian wing-back thriving since joining the club from Porto last summer.

According to their official website, the Bianconeri paid €26 million for Sandro, who then signed a five-year contract. He has already begun to prove to be worth that high fee with a string of eye-catching performances, with the graphic in the tweet below highlighting his efforts against Hellas Verona.

Adam Digby @Adz77
Alex Sandro vs Hellas(7/1/16): 3 tackles, 4 int, 2 clearances, 29/35 passes (82.9%), 2/3 take-ons (via @StatsZone)

Weighing in with three assists thus far, he is also defensively diligent and will be a difficult opponent for Udinese to contain when this contest gets underway. The task of stopping Sandro will likely fall to Silvan Widmer, a player believed to have no shortage of admirers after some consistently high-quality displays.

The Calcio Mercato website believes the 22-year-old is a transfer target for Juventus and Inter during the current transfer window, but he will need to be wary of the danger posed by Sandro at the Stadio Friuli.


Odds (via Odds Shark)

Away win: 1-2

Home win: 6-1

Draw: 3-1

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Colantuono: 'Juve is Di Natale's game'

http://www.football-italia.net/78447/colantuono-juve-di-natales-game?

Jan 16, 2016
 
Stefano Colantuono confirmed Antonio Di Natale will start for Udinese against Juventus. “This is his game.”

It kicks off on Sunday at 15.00 CET - 14.00 GMT.

“We must try to stop Juventus playing, as they have great quality and are in the best form of anyone in Serie A right now. The way to do that is be aggressive and attack them,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“The difference between Juve and the other clubs is their mentality. They face the top team and the bottom in the same way. They’ve always been like that, the environment around the team helps them find motivation even in the less important matches.

“Di Natale will play against Juve. This is his game, the kind of appointment that brings the best out of a champion. It is also a form of recognition towards Totò, considering tomorrow is the inauguration of the new stadium. This has to be his day.

“He is in good shape, the opposition further motivates him and I am convinced this’ll be his game.”

Udinese beat Juventus 1-0 in the opening round of the season, a huge shock, but can they do it now when the Bianconeri are on a run of nine consecutive victories?

“If we play our game at the maximum then we have a chance. We have to play, as if we sit back and defend then we’ll be crushed.

“Alvaro Morata is one of the best young forwards for the future, while Mario Mandzukic is an excellent centre-forward. Let’s not forget players like Simone Zaza and Paulo Dybala.

“However, we are not afraid of Juve and I don’t need to fire up the team in the papers by bragging. I don’t believe in sending messages via the media.”

This will be the first game since the Nuovo Stadio Friuli was completed and it is sold out.

“Our fans will make themselves heard. I am convinced tomorrow we’ll cancel out the memory of our performance against Carpi last week. There will be lots of Juve fans, but we’re all black and white and I’m sure ours will be louder.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: 'Udinese a new season'

http://www.football-italia.net/78453/allegri-udinese-new-season?

Jan 16, 2016
 
Max Allegri hopes Juventus kick off “another half-season” in the right way with Udinese, having lost the opener.

It kicks off on Sunday at 15.00 CET - 14.00 GMT.

“Unfortunately I remember the first game we played this season and it was followed by other difficult moments,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

The Bianconeri had one point after three rounds, having lost the opener 1-0 at home to Udinese.

“After Empoli the team started to put together a run of nine straight wins. We also improved physically and are now in good shape. We have another half-season to go. As I’ve already said this title race will be decided on the last day.

“Right now Napoli are the Scudetto favourites, but none of the top five can be ruled out. It’s part of the game, tipping the opposition to be favourites and Maurizio Sarri did it with us.

“I was never the only one who still believed in the Scudetto. In football as in life, there are difficult moments, but we got back on track thanks to the lads. That is not enough, there are many more games to go and I’ll field my best formation in every match.

“We have a difficult game tomorrow against an Udinese side in good form, while it will also be a special day for them inaugurating the new stadium.”

Alvaro Morata’s confidence crisis drags on and Allegri confirmed he will be benched with the return of Mario Mandzukic.

“Morata will do well and get back to scoring, as he has proved many times he’s a great player. Mandzukic has recovered and will play. Simone Zaza has become an important player for this team.

“Either Daniele Rugani or Martin Caceres will start in defence. It’s likely they will alternate, so whoever doesn’t start tomorrow will play against Lazio.

“Juventus have improved a great deal in terms of attitude and our objective is to challenge the best in Europe.”


Juventus squad for Udinese:

Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Khedira, Zaza, Marchisio, Morata, Pogba, Hernanes, Alex Sandro, Cuadrado, Mandzukic, Bonucci, Padoin, Dybala, Asamoah, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Evra, Audero

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese V Juventus – Preview: The Old Lady
Looking For The Perfect Ten

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/udinese-v-juventus-preview-the-old-lady-looking-for-the-perfect-ten/?

Jan 16, 2016
 
Reigning Serie A champions Juventus travel to face Udinese at the Stadio Friuli on Sunday afternoon, as the Old Lady look for their tenth win in a row in the league in their charge back up the table following a slow start to the season.

The Turin side defeated Sampdoria 2-1 at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris last Sunday to continue their fantastic form in Serie A, a run that puts the Bianconeri right back in the hunt for the Scudetto with half the campaign still to go.

Following the victory in Genoa, Massimiliano Allegri’s side sit second in the league standings, level on 39 points with Inter after round 19, and just two points behind leaders Napoli at the summit. Juventus have won six of their last eight away fixtures, with their last defeat coming in the form of a 1-0 loss to Sassuolo at back at the end of October. Since that defeat at the Mapei Stadium, the Turin giants have defeated Empoli, Palermo, Lazio, Carpi and Sampdoria on the road, scoring 13 goals and conceding just four times in the process.

The Zebrette began 2016 with a 2-1 victory over Atalanta at the Stadio Friuli, with that victory quickly being followed by a 2-1 loss away to Carpi last weekend, a mini run that just about sums up the frustrating campaign to date for Stefano Colantuono’s side.

Meanwhile, the Stadio Friuli outfit currently lie in 12th position in the table on 24 points after round 19. Colantuono’s charges have only managed three wins in their nine games in Udine this season and have already suffered four defeats, but only one in the last five, a 4-0 reverse against Inter. It took the Zebrette until the end of October to pick up their first three points at home, defeating Frosinone 1-0, but since then they have defeated Sampdoria and Atalanta, while also picking up a 0-0 draw against Sassuolo.

Udinese recorded a famous 1-0 win over Juve at the Juventus Stadium on the opening day of this season, and also managed a 0-0 draw at the Stadio Friuli back in February. In the past ten seasons though the Old Lady have won six of ten fixtures in Udine, with the home side last registering a victory back in April 2010, in a 3-0 win.

In team news, Udinese defender Maurizio Domizzi and midfielder Giovanni Pasquale remain doubts for the home side, while six goal top-scorer Cyril Thereau is expected to be partnered up front by the fit-again Duvan Zapata.

Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli faces a late fitness test, while midfielder Mario Lemina is also a doubt for Allegri’s side. Top-scorer Paulo Dybala will be looking to add to his nine goals already scored in Serie A this season.


Form Guide: Udinese (L-L-W-W-L) Juventus (W-W-W-W-W)


Expected starting XI’s

Udinese: Karnezis; Wague, Danilo, Felipe; Widmer, Badu, Lodi, Iturra, Edenilson; Thereau, Zapata.

Juventus: Buffon; Rugani, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Mandzukic, Dybala.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: Napoli Are Scudetto Favourites
Despite Juventus Resurgence

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/allegri-napoli-are-scudetto-favourites-despite-juventus-resurgence/?

Jan 16, 2016
 
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has targeted a tenth straight league victory when the Bianconeri face Udinese at the Stadio Friuli in Serie A on Sunday afternoon.

The 48-year-old coach also believes as many as five teams can maintain a serious title challenge this season, but has brandished Maurizio Sarri’s squad as the favourites.

“We are enjoying a good period at the moment and seem to have gotten back into the mini-league,” Allegri told reporters at his pre-match press conference on Saturday afternoon.

“As I have said before, this league will not be decided until the last game.

“At the moment, I think Napoli are the favourites but none of the teams who are currently in the top five places should be excluded from the fight. It is that close this season.

“This is all part of the game though, picking which team are the favourites. Tomorrow will be another big game for the league and we have a difficult match against a strong team who are in good form.”

Despite a stuttering start to their campaign, the Bianconeri boss revealed he never gave up hope of a fifth straight Scudetto success.

“I absolutely never believed we couldn’t win it,” he added.

“In football, as in life, you are going to go through moments of difficulty. We have gotten ourselves back on track thanks to these guys.

“But it isn’t enough as there is still a long way to go. Each game we will go out and give our best from now until the end.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese - Juventus Preview: Di Natale
eyes gift to mark champions showdown

The home side will officially open their new stadium against Massimiliano Allegri's
side as they look to halt the champions' nine-match winning run in Serie A.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/udinese-vs-juventus/2120571/preview

Jan 16, 2016
 
Antonio Di Natale wants to mark the full opening of Udinese's new stadium with another victory over Serie A champions Juventus on Sunday.

Cyril Thereau struck the only goal of the game as Udinese shocked Massimiliano Allegri's side in Turin back in August, beating Juve for the first time since 2011 and scoring their first league goal in five games against the Old Lady.

The revamped Friuli has been declared a sell-out for Juve's visit in what will be the first match for which all the refurbished areas of the ground will be open to the fans.

And Di Natale - who could be making his final appearance against Juve - is determined to mark the occasion in style.

"I'm sure that it will be a great match in a great stadium. We want to play a great match for our fans and especially for our president," he said to the club's TV channel this week.

"They are a really strong team, they are familiar with winning. It will be tough, especially for us, of course, but I'm convinced that they will struggle really hard to get a good result against us.

"It's hard to find weakness in their team, they are full of champions and experience. They are a fierce team, but if we do what we have to, we will make them struggle."

Juve's defeat in August began a run of just one win in six Serie A matches, but Allegri's side have hauled themselves firmly back into the title race thanks to nine victories in a row.

Allegri expects another stern test when they travel to Udine, however, especially given the spectacle of playing in front of a capacity crowd at the new ground.

"Udinese will pose a difficult test for us in what is a big week for them. Although they lost to Carpi last time out they are in decent form and will want to celebrate the full opening of their new stadium in style," he said.

"It'll be an important occasion for us too as we want to start the second half of the season in the best possible fashion and keep our objective alive of making Juventus history this year."

Juve have some concerns over the fitness of Alvaro Morata, who was forced to train separately this week due to illness, while both Andrea Barzagli and Mario Lemina are struggling with muscle injuries.

Alexander Merkel (knee) will miss the game for Udinese, while Giovanni Pasquale is a doubt with a similar issue.

Udinese have kept a clean sheet against Juve in their last two matches, but history remains firmly on the visitors' side. Prior to last year, they lost six times in a row to the champions, scoring just twice.


Key Opta Stats

- Udinese have gained 10 points in their last five home Serie A games: they gained only one in the previous four.
- Juventus have completed the most dribbles this season (262) and have conceded the fewest shots (167).
- Juventus have conceded the fewest goals from inside the box in this Serie A (nine).
- Gianluigi Buffon could win his 250th Serie A game with Juventus.
- Paul Pogba has had a hand in three of the last six Juventus league goals (two goals, one assists), while he had a hand only in four of the previous 27.


OPTA FACTS

Udinese won their last game against Juventus (1-0): in the previous eight Udinese have gained only two points.

Before this game, Udinese had failed to score in the previous five league games against Juventus.

Udinese have gained 10 points in their last five home Serie A games: they gained onlyone in the previos four.

Juventus gained only 12 points in the first 10 Serie A games this season, picking up a maximum of 27 in the last nine.

Juventus have completed the most dribbles this season (262) and have conceded the less shots (167).

Juventus have conceded the fewest goals from inside the box in this Serie A (nine).

Udinese, with Lazio, are one of the two teams yet to see a defender score this campaign.

Gianluigi Buffon could win his 250th Serie A game with Juventus.


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Udinese L W W L L

1/9/16 - Carpi 2 - 1 Udinese
1/6/16 - Udinese 2 - 1 Atalanta
12/20/15 - Torino 0 - 1 Udinese
12/17/15 - Lazio 2 - 1 Udinese
12/12/15 - Udinese 0 - 4 Internazionale


Juventus W W W W W

1/10/16 - Sampdoria 1 - 2 Juventus
1/6/16 - Juventus 3 - 0 Hellas Verona
12/20/15 - Carpi 2 - 3 Juventus
12/16/15 - Juventus 4 - 0 Torino
12/13/15 - Juventus 3 - 1 Fiorentina


HEAD TO HEAD

8/23/15 - Juventus 0 - 1 Udinese
2/1/15 - Udinese 0 - 0 Juventus
9/13/14 - Juventus 2 - 0 Udinese
4/14/14 - Udinese 0 - 2 Juventus
12/1/13 - Juventus 1 - 0 Udinese

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Line-ups: Udinese-Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/78502/line-ups-udinese-juventus?

Jan 17, 2016
 
The Nuovo Stadio Friuli is inaugurated by Antonio Di Natale’s Udinese, but Juventus seek a 10th straight Serie A win without Paul Pogba.

The stadium has been undergoing reconstruction for several months and is finally open with all 25,000 seats sold out for this game.

Di Natale leads the attack and aims to end his 10-round goal drought, partnered by on-form Cyril Thereau, while Maurizio Domizzi, Giovanni Pasquale and Alexander Merkel are injured.

Juve have the opportunity to go two points clear of Inter in second place if they get a 10th consecutive Serie A victory.

Andrea Barzagli, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra are sidelined, so Daniele Rugani is again picked in the back three.

Claudio Marchisio returns from suspension and Mario Mandzukic is back after suffering from flu symptoms alongside Paulo Dybala.

However, the illness has spread to Pogba and he’s ruled out, making way for the versatile Kwadwo Asamoah.


Udinese: Karnezis; Wague, Danilo, Felipe; Widmer, Badu, Lodi, Iturra, Edenilson; Di Natale, Thereau

Juventus: Buffon; Rugani, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Marchisio, Asamoah, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

HT 0-4: Juve humiliate Udinese

http://www.football-italia.net/78506/ht-juve-humiliate-udinese?

Jan 17, 2016
 
Juventus are humiliating 10-man Udinese in their new stadium, leading 4-0 at the break.

This match marked the inauguration of the Nuovo Stadio Friuli, also called the Dacia Arena, and all 25,000 seats were sold out. Paul Pogba was dropped due to flu symptoms, while Andrea Barzagli, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra were sidelined. Udinese started Antonio Di Natale, but Maurizio Domizzi, Giovanni Pasquale and Alexander Merkel were unavailable.

Mario Mandzukic returned to the side and wasted an early opportunity from close range, but Paulo Dybala curled a free kick over the wall to put Juventus in front after 15 minutes.

Udinese could’ve equalised moments later, but Edenilson lost his footing to balloon Cyril Thereau’s cross over the bar.

They were made to pay, as Juve doubled their advantage when the defence was caught napping on a corner for Sami Khedira to tap in unmarked at the back post from a Dybala assist.

It got even worse for the hosts, as Stephan Lichtsteiner sent Mandzukic clear and he was brought down from behind by Danilo. The red card was inevitable and Dybala coolly converted the penalty.

Alex Sandro added to the embarrassing rout, curling from the edge of the box into the far side of the net for his maiden Serie A goal.

It could’ve been more, but before half-time Orestis Karnezis performed decisive saves on Kwadwo Asamoah and Khedira.


Udinese 0-4 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Dybala 15, pen 26 (J), Khedira 18 (J), Alex Sandro 42 (U)

Udinese:

Karnezis; Wague, Danilo, Felipe; Widmer, Badu, Lodi, Iturra, Edenilson; Di Natale, Thereau

Juventus:

Buffon; Rugani, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Marchisio, Asamoah, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala

Ref: Rocchi

Sent off: Danilo 25 (U)

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

 
 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese 0-4 Juventus: Two-goal
Dybala stars in Bianconeri romp

The striker scored two twice and made two assists as the reigning
Serie A champions moved to within two points of leaders Napoli.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/udinese-vs-juventus/2120571/report

Jan 17, 2016
 
Paulo Dybala was the star of the show as his two goals helped fire Juventus to an impressive 4-0 win over Udinese on Sunday.
Udinese had shocked the Serie A champions 1-0 in August's reverse fixture and were hoping for a repeat in Sunday's encounter, which marked the first since renovation work was completed at their Stadio Friuli stadium.

But from the moment Dybala scored with a 15th-minute free-kick, there was only ever going to be one winner.

Sami Khedira scored for the second match running with a simple header before Danilo was sent off for a last-man challenge on Mario Mandzukic, allowing Dybala to make it 3-0 from the penalty spot. It was his 11th league goal of the season.

A fine individual goal from Alex Sandro made it 4-0 before the end of the opening period and, although they took their foot off the gas somewhat after the interval, Juve easily racked up a 10th consecutive Serie A win to pull away from Inter in second place and keep the heat on league leaders Napoli.

Keen to silence a loud, sold-out home crowd, Juve tested the water when Mandzukic failed to make clean contact with an acrobatic effort from Giorgio Chiellini's knock down.

And the visitors were in front in the 15th minute thanks to Dybala's perfectly executed free-kick into the bottom left-hand corner that left Orestis Karnezis flat-footed.

Just three minutes later, a corner was only part-cleared and Dybala headed across the face of goal, where the unmarked Khedira nodded into the open net.

Udinese began to completely unravel and Danilo was given his marching orders for chopping down Mandzukic when one-on-one with Karnezis and Dybala coolly slotted the resulting penalty into the bottom left-hand corner.

The pick of the goals came three minutes before the break as left-back Alex Sandro cut in on his right foot and curled a brilliant effort into the far corner.

Karnezis made fine stops from Khedira and Kwadwo Asamoah to keep it at 4-0 before the break, and Dybala was let down by a rare poor first touch when picked out by Mandzukic just shy of the hour mark.

The hosts had little to cheer, but veteran Antonio Di Natale was afforded a warm round of applause - including from several visiting players - when replaced by Duvan Zapata in what is likely to be his last game against Juve.

With the game won, Juve opted to take off Dybala and his replacement Alvaro Morata forced Karnezis into a smart stop low to his left.

Udinese almost grabbed a consolation when Francesco Lodi's free-kick was brilliantly tipped onto the post by Gianluigi Buffon.

But Juve were largely comfortable in the closing stages and Massimiliano Allegri's men can now prepare for a tricky week that seems them visit Lazio in the Coppa Italia before hosting Roma in Serie A.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese 0-4 Juventus: Dybala Guides
Bianconeri To Impress Win

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/udinese-0-4-juventus-dybala-guides-bianconeri-to-impress-win/?

Jan 17, 2016
 
Udinese were humbled 4-0 by Juventus at the Stadio Friuli in their Sunday afternoon Serie A fixture.

Goals from Sami Khedira, Alex Sandro and a brace from Paulo Dybala completed the rout in which Danilo was shown a red card.

The Old Lady took the lead after a quarter of an hour. A foul on former Udinese midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah saw his countrymen Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu booked, with Paulo Dybala stepping up to plant his free kick into the bottom corner.

Juventus doubled their lead moments later. A header across the face of goal from Dybala was watched idly by the defenders, with Sami Khedira requiring a faint touch to put the away side two ahead. Matters went from bad to worse before the match had even reached the half hour mark.

Mandzukic was fouled from behind in the box by Danilo, resulting in a penalty and red card for the Brazilian. Dybala converted his penalty, sending Orestis Karnezis the wrong way and bagging his 11th goal of the campaign.

With half time approaching, full-back Alex Sandro found a forth. A dummy run from Asamoah gave the Brazilian space on the edge of the area, who opened up his body to finish brilliantly into the bottom corner with his weaker foot.

In the second half the visiting side came close to adding to their advantage, substitute Alvaro Morata getting his shot away but straight at Karnezis. Francesco Lodi came the closest for the Zebrette, watching his free kick go agonizingly close but for the save from Gianluigi Buffon.

The result moves Juventus to with in two points of Serie A leaders Napoli, while Udinese continue to drop points and move closer to the relegation zone.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese 0 - 4 Juventus
SERIE A MATCH REPORT

Paulo Dybala scored two as Juventus ruined 10-man Udinese’s debut
at the new stadium, a 4-0 thrashing, but go clear in second place.

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/70015

Jan 17, 2016
 
This match marked the inauguration of the Nuovo Stadio Friuli, also called the Dacia Arena, and all 25,000 seats were sold out. Paul Pogba was dropped due to flu symptoms, while Andrea Barzagli, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra were sidelined. Udinese started Antonio Di Natale, but Maurizio Domizzi, Giovanni Pasquale and Alexander Merkel were unavailable.

Mario Mandzukic returned to the side and wasted an early opportunity from close range, but Paulo Dybala curled a free kick over the wall to put Juventus in front after 15 minutes.

Udinese could’ve equalised moments later, but Edenilson lost his footing to balloon Cyril Thereau’s cross over the bar.

They were made to pay, as Juve doubled their advantage when the defence was caught napping on a corner for Sami Khedira to tap in unmarked at the back post from a Dybala assist.

It got even worse for the hosts, as Stephan Lichtsteiner sent Mandzukic clear and he was brought down from behind by Danilo. The red card was inevitable and Dybala coolly converted the penalty.

Alex Sandro added to the embarrassing rout, curling from the edge of the box into the far side of the net for his maiden Serie A goal.

It could’ve been more, but before half-time Orestis Karnezis performed decisive saves on Kwadwo Asamoah and Khedira.

The second half was a much more relaxed affair, as Juve stopped pressing too hard. Dybala forced a save when pouncing on a misplaced Mandzukic volley at the back post.

Alvaro Morata proved his confidence is low, failing to beat Karnezis one-on-one, while Udinese almost got a consolation goal when Gigi Buffon fingertipped Francesco Lodi’s free kick on to the upright.

Juventus stay one point behind leaders Napoli, but are now two points clear of Inter in second place.


Udinese:

Karnezis; Wague (Heurtaux 55), Danilo, Felipe; Widmer, Badu, Lodi, Iturra, Edenilson; Di Natale (Duvan Zapata 60), Thereau (Fernandes 70)

Juventus:

Buffon; Rugani, Bonucci, Chiellini (Caceres 58); Lichtsteiner (Padoin 80), Khedira, Marchisio, Asamoah, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala (Morata 66)

Ref: Rocchi

Sent off: Danilo 25 (U)

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus claim tenth win in a row

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/result/result-juventus-claim-tenth-win-in-a-row_264457.html

Jan 17, 2016
 
Paolo Dybala was involved in all four goals as Juventus demolished Udinese at the Stadio Friuli on Sunday to claim their tenth league win in a row and keep up the pressure on Serie A leaders Napoli.

All the goals came inside the first half as the Old Lady looked to avenge their 1-0 defeat on the opening day of the season.

The hosts actually started brighter of the two sides and had their first chance on 10 minutes when Cyril Thereau found Antonio di Natale inside the penalty area, although he was ruled offside before he could shoot at goal.

Juventus then sprung into life and found their first of the afternoon on the quarter-hour mark from a set play after Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu brought down Kawdwo Asamoah just outside the penalty area. Dybala made no mistake with the free kick, sending it over the wall and into the bottom left-hand corner of the net.

Dybala turned provider just three minutes later when he found an unmarked Sami Khedira, who made a simple header in to double the visitors' advantage.

The game was effectively put to bed on 25 minutes when Udinese were reduced to ten men as Danilo Larangeira saw red for a clumsy challenge on Mario Mandzukic. Stephan Lichtsteiner's perfect pass set the Croatian up to go one-on-one with keeper Orestis Karnezis before he was brought down from behind by the Brazilian.

Dybala was then gifted his second of the afternoon as he struck confidently from the spot into the left-hand corner, leaving Karnezis helpless.

The young Argentine had a chance to take home the match ball as half time approached but his thumping strike went just over the crossbar. He did claim involvement in his side's fourth goal however, setting up Alex Sandro three minutes before the break for the Brazilian's first league goal for Juve.

Massimiliano Allegri's charges were not content to settle for just four and had multiple chances to extend their advantage in the second half but for some determined Udinese defending.

Mandzukic almost got on the scoresheet himself in the 53rd minute but was unable to get his feet to the ball from Sandro's closed when well-placed in the middle of the penalty area.

Dybala almost wrapped up his hat-trick on the hour mark but fluffed his lines when clear on goal after being played through by Mandzukic.

With the final whistle approaching, the pace slowed although the hosts were not without an opportunity to grab a consolation after Claudio Marchisio was judged to have handled the ball. Francesco Lodi took the free kick from 30 yards out but Gianluigi Buffon was able to get his fingers to the ball to push it onto the post and out.

The champions now sit second in Serie A, two points off Napoli, while Udinese's back-to-back defeats leave them 13th.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

 

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus 4 - Udinese 0: Initial
reaction and random observations

So I think Paulo Dybala might end up being a decent pickup.
Just thought I would share that with you all.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/1/17/10782218/juventus-udinese-2016-serie-a-round-20-final-score-result-initial-reaction

Jan 17, 2016
 
And then, with his next trick, Paulo Dybala only went out and scored two goals and got an assist within the first 25 minutes of a match. Just for good measure before the first half was over, he threw in another assist to play a hand in each one of Juventus' four first-half goals.

You thought you were having a good Sunday. Nah, Dybala did better. Sorry 'bout that, but it's true.

The "HOLY CRAP!!" kind of season Dybala is having continued against Udinese, as Juventus not just crashed the party at the new Friuli, but they stormed right through the gates and put the game to rest before the first half came to a close. It was truly the best performance in a dominant opening 45 minutes if there ever was one. Dybala led the charge, scoring another brilliant free kick before connecting on a penalty kick and dishing out assists on goals by Sami Khedira and Alex Sandro. That's what you call a stat sheet-stuffing kind of game.

And he did it all in the first half, people.

Any suspicions that Udinese would come out like gangbusters on the day they unveiled their new digs were squashed in just a couple of minutes after the opening kickoff. Instead, Juventus dropped a four spot on their opponent just like they did when they opened Juventus Stadium back in September of 2011 against Parma.

So, while we're at it, let's just go ahead and update Dybala's Serie A stats real quick, okay?

19 appearances (15 starts), 11 goals, 7 assists, millions of hearts left swooning after each game

Yes, we can make this all about Dybala — and rightfully so because he was absolutely dynamite. But let's not forget this: Juventus' first-half dismantling of Udinese was more than just Dybala playing out of his mind once again. Outside of a few shaky moments at the back, it was as good as Juve have played to open a game. Almost everywhere you looked there was somebody in a pink Juventus jersey doing something that proved to be important.

Who needs Paul Pogba, right? (I'm kidding. I love Paul Pogba.)

Juventus got the victory they needed to extend their winning streak, and they got the win to keep pace with the one team that is still in front of them in the Serie A standings. It's now plus-2 over third-place Inter and minus-2 behind league leaders Napoli. Giddy-up, folks. This is getting pretty good.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@PauDybala_JR: "It's a great day. We're two points off the top and need to make up the ground quickly"


Random thoughts and observations

Juventus' last 10 league games: W-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-W.

That's pretty good, IMHO.

The new Friuli looks fantastic. If only more clubs in Italy had the solid management structure and financial backing to get projects like that one done. Lord knows the country's stadiums need it badly.

According to La Stampa's Massimiliano Nerozzi, Pogba had played nearly 2,300 minutes this season entering the trip to Udine. Even if he wasn't dealing with the flu, it wouldn't have been the worst idea in the world to give him an afternoon off knowing what is on the horizon. That, of course, was even before the game was over 25 minutes in.

The score was 3-0 as the 30th minute arrived. Max Allegri was screaming instructions at some of his players at the top of his lungs. I mean, the dude is a perfectionist and apparently wanted more, more and more.

Good move by Allegri to get Giorgio Chiellini off the field before he picked up a yellow and got suspended for Roma next weekend. Plus it enabled Martin Cáceres to get some playing time, so Max got to kill two birds with one stone on that one.

Lost in the Dybala madness: Alex Sandro's first Juventus goal was a thing of beauty. Oh, and it was hit with his weaker right foot. You want another sign as to why Juve spent all that cash on him this summer, well, his weak foot ain't so weak after all.

You know Álvaro Morata is in a slump and low on confidence when he opts to pass the ball during a clear-cut scoring chance.

I ask this because it deserves to be mentioned: How consistent has Khedira been this season? He's got a couple goals to his name now — the first time he has scored in back-to-back games since 2013 — and his presence in the midfield is so very evident as the weeks go by.

Who had the best pass accuracy of Juventus' 11 starters? Somebody by the name of Kwadwo Asamoah. Not bad for somebody who has barely played this season due to injury reasons.

This was the 250th Serie A win in a Juventus jersey for Gigi Buffon. He got a clean sheet and made a couple of sweet, sweet saves along the way. I wouldn't have wanted to have him do so in any other kind of fashion. Buffon is just gonna be Buffon no matter what.

Moment that had nothing to do with the final score: The cameras caught Buffon giving a huge round of applause to Toto Di Natale when the veteran striker was subbed off in the second half. Those are a couple of longtime friends right there, and with many people thinking Di Natale will retire at the end of the season, this may very well be the last time we've seen him play against Juventus.

Roma comes to Juventus Stadium in a little different shape than the first time the two teams played. Juve are coming off a dominant win, Roma are coming off a very Roma-y kind of 1-1 draw to last-place Hellas Verona. Next Sunday should be a fun one in Turin.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese 0 - 4 Juventus
TEAM RATINGS

http://www.goal.com/en/match/udinese-vs-juventus/2120571/ratings?ICID=MP_MS_6

Jan 17, 2016
 

Udinese

31 O. Karnezis - Was peppered with shots from the Juventus attack and didn't do well enough with what was thrown at him.

2 M. Wagué - Was put under an incredible amount of pressure and failed to deal with it well enough before being hauled off shortly after the start of the second half.

5 Danilo - Really struggled at the start of the game and made a difficult task for his team an impossible one when he hacked Mandzukic to the ground inside the penalty area, resulting in him receiving a red card.

30 Felipe - Was often too static inside his own penalty area, which cost his side dearly, and failed to deal with the pace and skill of Dybala time and time again.

27 S. Widmer - Looked bright going forward and was largely solid at the back, where he defended well and battled hard from start to finish.

7 E. Agyemang-Badu - Put in a good shift, particularly under the circumstances. Kept running right until the very end and always looked like he wanted to break away on quick counter-attacks.

20 F. Lodi - Had a difficult game in the middle of the pitch, where he was often forced to sit deep, but found it extremely tough to defend against a determined Juventus front line.

16 M. Iturra - Spent the vast majority of his time off the ball, as he was forced to sit back and defend down the left flank. He largely did so well but was sometimes caught out due to his lack of pace.

21 Edenilson - Largely struggled down the left flank, where he was unable to find a way past Lichtsteiner and allowed the Swiss wing-back far too much room to maraud forward.

10 A. Di Natale - Started well but quickly faded from the game and, as a result, spent the rest of the afternoon on the fringes of the action.

77 C. Théréau - Made plenty of good runs forward when Udinese attempted to break away on counter-attacks, but after Danilo’s red card he found his opportunities few and far between.


Substitutes

75 T. Heurtaux - Came on for Wague early in the second half and put in a largely solid performance to help deny Juventus the opportunity to score a fifth goal.

9 D. Zapata - Featured for the final half-an-hour but saw little of the ball, and when he did he was often too sloppy in possession and too wayward with his passes.

8 Bruno Fernandes - Replaced Di Natale with half-an-hour left to play but was unable to find much joy as Juventus continued to dominate the possession.


 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - Had very little to deal with due to his side’s dominance of the game, but he was nonetheless solid when called upon to act.

24 D. Rugani - Had a few nervy moments at the start of the game, particularly when dealing with crosses, but grew into the encounter and by the end pulled off a good performance.

19 L. Bonucci - Was sloppy at the start of the game and was lucky not to receive a second yellow card for a poor foul on Agyemang-Badu. After that he improved dramatically and impressed from then onwards.

3 G. Chiellini - Another strong performance from the centre-back, who always looked comfortable defensively and was particularly impressive with his feet when breaking forward.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - Constantly found plenty of joy down the right flank. Defended solidly against Edenilson and beat the Brazilian going forward time and time again.

6 S. Khedira - An all-round excellent performance from the German resulted in him finding the back of the net, as he showed good understanding with Dybala to nod the ball past Karnezis from close range.

8 C. Marchisio - Had a very comfortable evening in the middle of the pitch, where he was crisp with his passing and strong with his defending, which denied Udinese the opportunity to break away on quick counter-attacks.

22 K. Asamoah - Impressed on only his second start of the season. Always looked bright when on the ball and often picked out Dybala and Mandzukic with well-placed lofted passes.

12 Alex Sandro - Marked a great performance with his first Juventus goal. Always looked dangerous with the ball at his feet and scored his side’s fourth with a lovely curling shot from the edge of the penalty area.

17 M. Mandžukić - Frustrated the Udinese back line with his power and determination, and he did well to beat Danilo before forcing the Brazilian into bringing him down inside the box.

21 Paulo Dybala - The Argentine was outstanding. Played a role in all of Juventus’ goals, two of which he scored, and was a handful for the Udinese defence all afternoon long.


Substitutes

4 M. Cáceres - Came on for Chiellini on the hour mark and continued the Italian’s good performance with a strong display that helped to keep Juventus’ clean sheet intact.

9 Álvaro Morata - Featured for the final 25 minutes after replacing Dybala. Got himself into good positions on several occasions but looked too timid in front of goal, which resulted in him failing to fully punish the Udinese defence.

20 S. Padoin - Replaced Lichtsteiner late on but failed to make much of an impact in his short time on the pitch.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Dybala: Udinese Win Is My Best
Moment At Juventus So Far

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/dybala-udinese-win-is-my-best-moment-at-juventus-so-far/?

Jan 17, 2016
 
Juventus’ 4-0 victory over Udinese at the Stadio Friuli was Paulo Dybala’s sweetest moment as a Bianconeri player.

Going second in Serie A was made to look incredibly easy by the Old Lady as former Palermo star Dybala opened the scoring with a smart free-kick before making it 3-0 with a penalty, bringing his seasonal total to 11.

“I have lived many beautiful moments but now is the most beautiful because we are second in the league and I have made my mark on this team,” said Dybala to Premium Sports.

“We played well but the Scudetto will not be easy because Inter and Napoli are great teams.”

Juve have now won every league encounter since late October, racking up ten straight Serie A wins ahead of Scudetto rivals Roma coming to Juventus Stadium next weekend.

“We want to continue like this and having lost the reverse match with Roma we want to beat them on Sunday,” concluded the 22-year-old.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Carlos who? Dybala is filling the void
left by Tevez's Juventus exit

The Serie A holders have found their feet after a tough start to the season, and with
10 wins in a row their baby-faced new idol has helped ease the pain of Carlitos' parting.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2601/features/2016/01/17/19429342/-?

Jan 17, 2016
 
Replacing Carlos Tevez in any team is no simple task. The grizzled warrior from the mean streets of Fuerte Apache is an inveterate winner, a man who drags his team-mates to titles and glory by sheer force of personality. He also happens to be one of the most talented forwards in world football.

His decision to abandon Turin for his first love, Boca Juniors, inevitably left a big mark on the Old Lady. But she is slowly nursing her way back to full health, and the Argentine anointed as Carlitos' heir in the famous black and white shirt is doing more than most to ensure the club will once more be included in the Scudetto discussion.

Paulo Dybala did not enjoy the easiest of introductions at the Italian giants. His quality was evident, and the goals arrived almost instantly after joining from Palermo. But the rest of the team still appeared in shock following the parting of Tevez, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal, and results were poor.

The Cordoba native was used sparingly as he became accustomed to life at Juve, and after four consecutive Serie A titles it appeared that 2015/16 would be a step too far for Massimilliano Allegri's charges. But Dybala and the Bianconeri have well and truly hit their stride, and it would take a brave man to bet against them securing No. 5 this season.

A potentially tricky away clash against Udinese on Sunday was transformed into a walkover thanks to the brilliance of the 22-year-old star. Dybala opened the scoring with a beautifully executed free kick that swerved wickedly into the corner.

Forget Tevez: this was a strike worthy of none other than Lionel Messi. Sami Khedira would just minutes later reap the benefits of playing alongside the Argentine, who nodded the ball into his path to convert the second of the afternoon.

An exemplary penalty extended the lead to three before the half-hour mark was up, and the clash was well and truly wrapped up when Dybala released a flying Alex Sandro down the left to compound Udinese's misery. Two goals and two assists was a fine tally for Juventus' new lynchpin, as he became the first man to reach such a mark in Serie A since Mauro Icardi in May 2015 and the first Juve player to do so since the 2004/5 season.

The youngster is by no means a carbon copy of Tevez, whose omission from the Ballon d'Or shortlist was nothing short of scandalous. Dybala is elegant and measured on the ball where Carlitos exudes fury and urgency. He is the surgical scalpel to the Boca idol's sledgehammer.

Yet he shares that winning attitude, and is consistent to an extreme. Even at 17-years-old and taking his first steps in Cordoba's Instituto, he played every game of the demanding Nacional B season, dragging the club within an inch of promotion with 17 goals.

That almost uninterrupted excellence on the field has sent the Old Lady flying. Allegri's charges have racked up 10 straight Serie A wins, and only Napoli and their Argentine titan Gonzalo Higuain block the path to the summit. Dybala himself has scored seven times and assisted five more in that run, establishing himself in the process as the creative heart of the team.

With a resurgent Napoli, a much-improved Inter and even Fiorentina keeping touch at the top of the table this year's Serie A promises to be Europe's hardest-fought, most competitive top league. Juve will have to continue their wonderful form until the bitter end, having proven there is indeed life after Tevez, Pirlo and the tireless Vidal.

The club's improvement has been a team effort but the irrespressible Dybala has been absolutely vital on the pitch, making the world stand up with a string of wonderful displays and goals from the very top drawer. Juventus fans might have been forgiven for thinking life after Carlitos would be painful.

To their delight, the new kid on the block promises to make just as big an impression on the club.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: 'Napoli favourites for now'

http://www.football-italia.net/78513/allegri-napoli-favourites-now?

Jan 17, 2016
 
Max Allegri insists “Napoli are the Scudetto favourites for now” despite Juventus earning a 10th consecutive victory.

The Bianconeri crushed Udinese 4-0 in their new stadium and remained one point behind the leaders, but are now two points clear of Inter.

“Napoli are going at a remarkable tempo, so they are the Scudetto favourites for now, but there are still five teams up there who have a chance of winning the title,” Allegri told Mediaset Premium.

“We missed many things in the first half of the season, but I was not worried because we changed so much over the summer. A period of adjustment was only to be expected. We still have a lot of work to do and can improve further.

“We need to work on our physique, but also on the quality of our football and not misplacing so many passes. We are already getting better, but must do more.”

Paulo Dybala scored another two goals today and had a hand in the other two.

“He has improved a great deal, but let’s leave comparisons to one side. He can still do better, as everyone can. I am happy with this squad, as the strength in depth means I can rest players.”

Paul Pogba was left out today due to flu symptoms so he can be fresh for the Coppa Italia quarter-final against Lazio.

“Kwadwo Asamoah is a reliable player with great technique. Unfortunately he had this knee injury that means I can’t use him all the time, but he’s always impressive when called upon.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese Coach Bemoans Mistakes
In Defeat To Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/udinese-coach-bemoans-mistakes-in-defeat-to-juventus/?

Jan 17, 2016
 
Udinese coach Stefano Colantuono bemoans individual mistakes that cost them dear in their 4-0 home defeat to Juventus.

The visitors scored all their goals in the first half, with Paulo Dybala bagging a brace and Sami Khedira and Alex Sandro completed the easy win.

“The result is a shame because this is the first time we’ve been beaten in this manner,” Colantuono told Sky Sport Italia after the game.

“However, I saw similarities to our defeat to Inter earlier in the season. We conceded to their first opportunity in front of goal.

“We made so many individual mistakes today, and obviously making mistakes against big teams will ultimately lead to defeat.

“Juventus are in a league or their own at the moment, but we have to improve against the big teams.”

Udinese remain on 24 points, seven points away from the drop zone and now double figures in terms of number of defeats for this season in Serie A.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese 0-4 Juventus

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/match/432073/udinese-juventus/report

Jan 17, 2016
 
Juventus blew Udinese away at the Stadio Friuli to record their 10th consecutive Serie A victory.

The reigning champions are now second after a brace from Paulo Dybala and goals from Sami Khedira and Alex Sandro confirmed an emphatic away win before the half-time whistle.

Udinese, who had Danilo sent off in the concession of a penalty, suffered a 4-0 defeat at home for the second time this season having lost to Inter Milan by the same scoreline last month.

Dybala grabbed his first goal with a 15th-minute free-kick that screamed past Orestis Karnezis and, three minutes later, Khedira doubled the visitors' lead.

The former Real Madrid midfielder was best-placed to nod home when Daniele Rugani set him up amid the goalmouth scramble that followed a corner.

Udinese made life difficult for themselves in the 25th minute when Danilo brought Mario Mandzukic down in the box to earn a red card for himself and a penalty for Juve. Dybala did not miss from the spot and had his brace.

Three minutes before the break Sandro made it 4-0 after darting inside from the right wing to drive the ball beyond Karnezis' reach.

Juve returned after half-time still hunting for more goals but Udinese had resolved to avoid further embarrassment.

Dybala was denied his hat-trick by a quick-thinking Karnezis before the hour mark and the Greek goalkeeper punched Alvaro Morata's effort to safety 10 minutes later.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

SERIE A: JUVENTUS INCH CLOSER TO TABLE TOP
WITH HELP OF DYBALA BRACE AGAINST UDINESE

Paulo Dybala hit a brace and Alex Sandro struck his maiden Juventus goal in a 4-0
rout away to Udinese that closed the gap on Serie A leaders Napoli to two points on Sunday.

http://www.thehardtackle.com/news/2016/01/17/serie-a-juventus-inch-closer-to-table-top-with-help-of-paulo-dybala-brace-against-udinese/?

Jan 17, 2016
 
Napoli, who are gunning for a first title in 26 years, went top of the pile on Saturday thanks to a 3-1 win over Sassuolo when striker Gonzalo Higuain took his tally to 20 goals in 20 games.

But Juve stayed well in the hunt with a comprehensive win at the Friuli Stadium that gave Massimiliano Allegri’s defending champions their 10th consecutive league win.

Argentina international Dybala broke the deadlock on the quarter hour with a superb free kick that sailed over the defensive wall and left Orestis Karnezis rooted to the spot.

Udinese have been celebrating the opening of their stadium after recent refurbishment, but it was to get worse for Stefano Colantuono’s hosts.

Sami Khedira pounced on some calamitous defending to nod a loose ball into the net at the far post just three minutes later.

And Juventus were 3-0 up inside 26 minutes when Dybala beat Karnezis from the spot after Larangeira Danilo was shown a straight red for hauling Croatian striker Mario Mandzukic down from behind.

It was the Argentinian’s ninth goal of the season but sixth in his past 10 games.

Sandro added a fourth three minutes before the interval, the Brazilian defender given the time to curl his effort inside Karnezis’s far post from just inside the area to wrap up the win for the four-time consecutive champions.

Juventus took full advantage of Inter Milan’s 1-1 draw away to Atalanta on Saturday to move up to second, two points clear of Roberto Mancini’s men, who could drop to fourth later on Sunday if Fiorentina, at two points behind, account for AC Milan at the San Siro.

Elsewhere, Luciano Spalletti’s second spell in charge of Roma began in dubious fashion with a 1-1 draw at home to winless Verona.

Spalletti took over from sacked Rudi Garcia in midweek promising to “push the right buttons” in a bid to get the misfiring Giallorossi back into title contention.

But the former Zenit St. Petersburg handler saw the hosts give up a 1-0 lead from Radja Nainggolan’s strike four minutes before the interval when Giampaolo Pazzini levelled from the spot on the hour.

Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko spurned a chance to snatch the win at the death when he headed over from Alessandro Florenzi’s corner, leaving Roma in fifth place and now nine points behind Napoli.

Bologna raced to a 2-0 lead at home to Lazio thanks to a superb free kick from Emanuele Giaccherini on two minutes and Mattia Destro’s opportunistic strike.

But Lazio were handed a lifeline when Adam Masina was shown a straight red for tackling Miroslav Klose from behind in the penalty area.

Antonio Candreva stepped up to beat Antonio Mirante with a cheeky ‘Panenka’ to reduce arrears on 71 minutes and Senad Lulic levelled six minutes later with a superb half-volley from Klose’s delivery on the right flank.

Relegation candidates Carpi gave their survival bid a boost with a 2-1 home win over Sampdoria, Lorenzo Lollo and Jerry Mbakogu, from the spot, scoring either side of Joaquin Correa’s 33rd minute goal for the visitors.

Carpi’s fourth win of the campaign moved them to third from bottom, four points behind Palermo after their 4-0 mauling earlier Sunday at Genoa.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus Coach Believes Dybala Can
Get Even Better After Udinese Win

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/juventus-coach-believes-dybala-can-get-even-better-after-udinese-win/?

Jan 17, 2016
 
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri insists Paulo Dybala can still improve after he netted a brace in the 4-0 win over Udinese.

The Argentinian was instrumental in a victory that also saw Sami Khedira and Alex Sandro score with Danilo shown a red card for the hosts.

“Dybala has improved a lot, but there is no need to compare him to anyone, he still has room to improve,” Allegri told Premium Sport after the game.

“We need to work on the physical and technical aspects of our own game, we are improving but must continue in this way.

“There is no problem with the way we play and now we are defending well.”

Allegri also had his say on the title race and refused to claim that his side are favourites despite winning their last ten matches in Serie A.

“Napoli look the clear favourites for the Scudetto at present, but five teams have a chance of winning it,” Allegri added.

“In the first half of the season we were missing many features of our game, but now I don’t care because we’ve turned it all around.”

Juventus are now two points behind Napoli who top the Serie A table, while Inter are in third with 40 points.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Paulo Dybala superb as Juventus rout
Udinese for 10th straight win

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2789021/juventus-led-by-paulo-dybala-in-big-win-at-udinese

Jan 17, 2016
 
It was a meant to be a day reserved for Udinese celebrations. After 20 months of restructuring work, their stadium (now called Dacia Arena) was finally fully opened and coach Stefano Colantuono was hoping his men would play with pride and ensure a good performance. Yet it took Juventus just 15 minutes to break the deadlock before adding three more to finish the game 4-0.

Inspired by Paulo Dybala, the Bianconeri demonstrated excellence and intelligence to exploit the hosts' weaknesses and inexperience, winning free-kicks and converting them with precision to move up to second place in the league. The difference between the two sides in terms of technical quality was far too big. While Juventus are still capable of taking their eyes off the ball and lowering their concentration when in command of the game, they can afford to do so when faced with a opponent capable of so many individual errors.

Sunday's win makes it 10 in a row for Juve and the fact they can now rest the likes of Paul Pogba and still manage such devastating wins should terrify those competing alongside them for the title.


Player ratings

Gianluigi Buffon, 7 -- Pitted against a side that rarely attacked, Buffon was barely called upon but he was still attentive and make a great save at the end, denying Francesco Lodi's free-kick to ensure a clean sheet.

Daniele Rugani, 6 -- His inexperience was somewhat visible early on as Udinese targeted him in attack. Forced to play under pressure, the player hesitated but as the game progressed, so did his confidence.

Leonardo Bonucci, 6 -- Always capable of the odd mistake, Bonucci started poorly but soon adjusted and grew in stature, putting in the kind of performance we expect from one of the team's defensive leaders.

Giorgio Chiellini, 7 -- The best player at the back, Chiellini played a mature game, anticipating moves and acting with intelligence. Additionally, his ventures forward are proving important.

Stephan Lichtsteiner, 7 -- Knows just how to interpret the team's transitional game, Lichtenstein offered a typical sense of balance, providing defensive security and offensive thrusts forward. Always on hand to offer solutions, he is the ultimate reliable player.

Sami Khedira, 8 -- A tactical wizard, the German knows when to win back possession and when to make the right runs forward to exploit opportunities, managing to score another goal on Sunday. His decision making at the end suffered momentarily but he is a player who raises the level of those around him.

Claudio Marchisio, 7 -- He wins the ball back and restarts the match, he anticipates the right moves and he directs the players forward, Marchisio's intelligence is finally put in the limelight this season and the team is clearly benefitting.

Kwadwo Asamoah, 7 -- It's rather amazing that no matter how long the Ghanaian is out, he always knows how to make an impact upon return. His positioning was excellent while his passing game is still excellent to watch. A team player.

Alex Sandro, 8 -- Accurate, energetic, intelligent and determined, Sandro has more than won the affection of the fans who cheer his name. Managing yet another goal today, he never tires from providing offensive thrusts on the left.

Mario Mandzukic, 7 -- A little rusty in front of goal, the player works immensely well at bringing others into the game, alway working for the benefit of the team.

Paulo Dybala, 9 -- Have Juventus ever made a better purchase? Perhaps they have but the Argentine youngster is proving exceptional, not only scoring the goals with ease but also capable of providing assists. Determined and focused, few work as hard for their team.


Substitutes

Marin Caceres, 6 -- Rarely threatened by a side that barely ventured forward, the Uruguayan was allowed to conduct his work in peace.

Alvaro Morata, 6 -- Honoured by the fans who continue to chant his name despite his poor moment, Morata worked hard in a brief cameo. Intelligent with his runs and positioning but his shots are too weak while he hesitates with his decisions, revealing his lack of confidence.

Simone Padoin, N/A -- Barely offered much time to make an impact, Padoin arrived during an easy moment of the game knowing the win was sealed.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8975]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

0 - 4

Paulo Dybala (15')
Sami Khedira (18')
Paulo Dybala (26'-penalty)
Alex Sandro (42')

MATCHDAY 20
Sunday, January 17th, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Friuli Stadium, Udine
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Udinese vs. Juventus: Winners and
Losers from Serie A Match

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2608530-udinese-vs-juventus-winners-and-losers-from-serie-a-match?

Jan 18, 2016
 
Having won their last nine Serie A matches, Juventus headed to the newly refurbished Stadio Friuli in search of another three points against Udinese. They would win the match, 4-0.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri understood the importance of gaining a positive result, explaining to reporters at his pre-match press conference that it was vital his side maintained their recent momentum.

“We’re on a good run of form, and we’ve made important strides thanks to the players,” he explained. “But you don’t win the title with 39 points, there are 19 games to go, and I’m almost certain the title race will go right down to the wire.”

With Napoli having won earlier in the weekend, continuing their impressive streak became even more important, while the home side came into this encounter having lost in their last outing away to Carpi, 2-1.

Yet they also knew they had taken three points against the Turin giants earlier in the season, giving them the hope and confidence that they could pull off a repeat as they played in front of their fully opened stadium for the first time.

What follows is a looks at the best and worst performances from Juve’s against Udinese, highlighting the individuals who stood out in this latest outing for the reigning champions against coach Stefano Colantuono’s men.


Winner: Paulo Dybala

Clearly Juve's key figure this season, Paulo Dybala once again exerted his influence on proceedings here. Netting with a free-kick and a penalty, the Argentinian also weighed in assists for his side's other two goals.


Loser: Orestis Karnezis (Udinese)

With his team under constant pressure, Orestis Karnezis did little to help the home side. The Udinese goalkeeper was repeatedly caught wrong-footed, barely moving as Juve's goals began to flow.


Winner: Sami Khedira (Juventus)

Sami Khedira turned in yet another superb performance here, calmly controlling the midfield as he has done every time he has taken to the field for Juventus.

The former Real Madrid man—whose influence was discussed in this previous post—was rewarded with his third goal of the campaign, netting easily to put his side firmly in command.


Loser: Stefano Colantuono (Udinese)

Udinese boss Colantuono looked on helplessly as Juventus dismantled his side, which was unable to match the ability and tactical advantage enjoyed by their opponents.

The coach had no answer to Allegri's approach and will need to bring more from his players if Udinese are to avoid a relegation battle.


Winner: Udinese

They may have lost, but Udinese will now enjoy the benefit of playing at a stadium they own. They should reap major financial rewards from the newly refurbished Stadio Friuli, a modern 25,000-seat facility that is only the third privately owned ground in Serie A.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127