JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

Socrates · February 21, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Barzagli, Chiellini back in training

http://www.football-italia.net/98676/barzagli-chiellini-back-training

Feb 21, 2017

Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini have trained with their Juventus teammates this morning, ahead of tomorrow’s Porto game.

The defenders were both in doubt for the first leg of the Champions League Last 16 tie, with Coach Massimiliano Allegri saying they wouldn’t be risked if not fully fit.

This morning both Barzagli and Chiellini have trained with the squad at Vinovo, indicating they should at least be able to make the squad.

The Bianconeri will fly to Oporto from Caselle airport at 15.20 local time, with Allegri and Gigi Buffon giving the pre-match Press conference at 18.45.

Socrates · February 21, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Higuain: I know Juventus can go all the way in Champions League

Experiencing no regrets over leaving Napoli, the Argentine is preparing to try

and go all the way in the Champions League with his current side.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/8/main/2017/02/21/32907482/-

Feb 21, 2017

Gonzalo Higuain believes Juventus are capable of winning the Champions League this season and is adamant he made the right choice in leaving Napoli.

Juve reached the final of the prestigious competition in 2014-15, losing 3-1 to Barcelona in Berlin, while Higuain is yet to win the tournament, having left Real Madrid for Napoli at the start of the season in which Carlo Ancelotti finally guided Los Blancos to the club's long-awaited 10th European Cup success.

The Bianconeri parted with a huge sum, approximately €90 million, in July to lure Higuain away from Stadio San Paolo as they seek to go one better on the big stage.

And the Argentine striker feels Massimiliano Allegri's team has what it takes to triumph in Cardiff on June 3, with a round-of-16 tie against Porto their next obstacle.

"We can win the Champions League, but we have to be calm," Higuain told La Stampa ahead of the first leg at Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday.

"I know we're a strong team and I know we can get to the end. So we have to start that journey away at Porto."

Higuain incurred the wrath of Napoli's passionate supporters by swapping the Partenopei for Turin, but the forward has no qualms about the merits of the switch.

"Playing with the best players makes you improve, it's logical," he said.

"Whoever you are, you can always learn.

"All you have to do is look at Gigi [Buffon], he's won everything but he still trains like a kid. That's true for Dani Alves and other team-mates too.

"It's hunger that makes you win, even if you've done it before.

"I know I made the right choice, I don't feel any pressure. In fact, it's a privilege for me to think that they bought me while thinking about winning in Europe."

Socrates · February 21, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Juventus call Chiellini, Barzagli

http://www.football-italia.net/98679/juventus-call-chiellini-barzagli

Feb 21, 2017

Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli are both in the Juventus squad for tomorrow’s Porto game.

The Bianconeri will fly out to Portugal later today, ahead of the first leg of their Champions League Last 16 tie.

The two defenders had been in doubt for the game, but both trained with the team at Vinovo this morning.

Now Massimiliano Allegri has announced his squad for the fixture, and both Barzagli and Chiellini will be on the plane.

Stephan Lichtsteiner also returns after being left out of the squad for the group stages, with new signing Tomas Rincon also included.

Juventus squad to face Porto: Buffon, Neto, Audero, Chiellini, Benatia, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Bonucci, Dani Alves, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Pjanic, Khedira, Marchisio, Lemina, Asamoah, Sturaro, Rincon, Cuadrado, Higuain, Mandzukic, Pjaca, Dybala

Socrates · February 21, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Bonucci dropped for Porto?

http://www.football-italia.net/98683/bonucci-dropped-porto

Feb 21, 2017

Leonardo Bonucci could be dropped by Juventus for the Champions League match with Porto, according to multiple reports.

The centre-back was seen arguing with Coach Massimilano Allegri during the win over Palermo, and was fined by the Bianconeri for his indiscretion.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Bonucci could be in the stands at Estadio Dragao tomorrow, as a message from Allegri.

La Stampa has also declared that the defender could be sent to the stands, a punishment the club appears to be in favour of.

However, the Juve hierarchy will leave the final decision down to Allegri.

The story being reported by La Stampa may be significant, as the newspaper is owned by the Agnelli family.

Meanwhile, Sky is reporting that a decision has been taken, and Bonucci will not play against Porto.

Allegri will address the media at 18.45 local time this evening, and is sure to be asked about the rumours.

Bonucci has travelled with the squad, along with Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli, who have recovered from injury.

Socrates · February 21, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Trap: ‘Italian mentality will prevail’

http://www.football-italia.net/98684/trap-‘italian-mentality-will-prevail’

Feb 21, 2017

Giovanni Trapattoni sees both Porto and Juventus as “quality” but “the Italian mentality can prevail”.

The Bianconeri face the first leg of their Champions League Last 16 tie tomorrow, and their former Coach expects tactical nous to give them the upper hand.

“In the match between Porto and Juventus, tactical aspects are important,” Trapattoni explained to SportMediaset.

“They are two quality teams, but I’m convinced our mentality - by which I mean the Italian one - can prevail.

“In general, Portuguese and Spanish teams are more focused on technical aspects than tactical ones, which makes them quite vulnerable.

“Allegri’s new formation? Max knows the qualities of these five players, clearly they can do the two phases in a balanced way.

“[Gonzalo] Higuain is the spearhead, but the whole team has great quality. The important thing is that there is participation and involvement from everyone.”

Leo Bonucci was seen arguing with Allegri during the Palermo game, with rumours he could even be dropped for the Porto match.

However, Il Trap played down the incident with reference to his infamous Bayern Munich Press conference rant.

“It happened to me, in a Press conference, so quite publicly. My talk about [Thomas] Strunz is quite famous…

“In any case, these seem like superficial things, suggested by people with no experience of a dressing room.”

Socrates · February 21, 2017

Napoli fans banned for Coppa

http://www.football-italia.net/98685/napoli-fans-banned-coppa

Feb 21, 2017

As expected, Turin’s local government has ordered that no Napoli fans will be allowed at the Coppa Italia game with Juventus.

Away fans have been barred at both Juventus Stadium and Stadio San Paolo for recent clashes between the two sides, as there has been trouble in the past.

The pair meet in the Coppa Italia semi-final, and there will be no Partenopei supporters allowed at the first leg on February 28.

The Prefetto di Torino has ordered that no tickets can be sold to residents of the Campania region, even those with fan cards, and the away fans’ section will be closed.

It’s likely that the same measures will be applied for the return leg in Naples in April, as well as the Serie A game there on April 2.

Socrates · February 21, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Porto midfielder Danilo promises

to give everything against Juventus

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/preview?gameId=469097

Feb 21, 2017

Danilo insists Porto are just as ambitious as Juventus as the teams prepare to clash in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The Estadio do Dragao will host the first leg of the contest on Wednesday night, with Porto looking for a first win in four matches against the Italian giants.

And midfielder Danilo sees it as a meeting of equals. He said in La Repubblica: "FC Porto and Juventus are two teams in different realities.

"We have to sell the best players, they can simply buy. There are big differences in terms of budgets, but the ambition is the same.

"We are very organised defensively and in attack we have young players who can make a difference, but our great strength is the spirit of camaraderie that exists between us.

"Certainly the atmosphere of the Dragao will make a difference. We play every game as if it were our last."

Both teams head into the clash in great form, with Porto having won their last six games while Serie A leaders Juventus are on a seven-game winning streak.

The match will pit two of Europe's great custodians against each other - 35-year-old Iker Casillas and 39-year-old Gianluigi Buffon locking horns once again.

Juventus, meanwhile, have been boosted by the return to fitness of key defenders Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli, who were both included in the squad after recovering from thigh injuries.

It is more than two decades since the Old Lady last lifted the biggest prize in European club football, and attempting to address that was a major factor in the signing last summer of Gonzalo Higuain.

Juve paid Napoli 90 million euro for the services of the Argentinian and he has not disappointed, scoring 22 goals in 32 appearances.

Higuain is content to carry the weight of expectation, telling La Stampa: "I feel very happy, for the love that I have for my team-mates, the fans, the club, the city - I feel part of them. I knew I had made the right choice.

"I do not feel any pressure. Indeed, for me it is a privilege to know they signed me thinking of winning in Europe."

Not that Higuain or his team-mates will underestimate Porto.

The striker said: "(I played there) with Napoli, and they eliminated us. It's a beautiful stadium, great atmosphere, with a team that plays in the Champions League always. We must be careful."

Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri confirmed that defender Leonardo Bonucci will not be in the squad following reports of a row between the pair in the closing stages of Friday's victory over Palermo.

Allegri told the club's official website: "Bonucci won't be part of the squad tomorrow night. Having consulted the board, I took the decision to leave him out for the good of the club, supporters and team.

"Leo is a sensitive and intelligent man and, as a key player for Juventus, he understands the motives behind the call."

Socrates · February 21, 2017

Napoli confirm Allan injury

http://www.football-italia.net/98688/napoli-confirm-allan-injury

Feb 21, 2017

Napoli have confirmed that midfielder Allan is suffering from an adductor injury, so he could miss Juventus and Real Madrid.

The Brazilian was forced off after 42 minutes of the win over Chievo, with immediate fears that he had a groin injury.

“Allan was today submitted to ultrasound tests which confirmed the diagnosis of a first-grade adductor injury,” a statement on the Partenopei’s official website confirmed.

“The Azzurri midfielder, who suffered the injury during the match against Chievo, will undergo therapy in the coming days.

“Over the course of the next week, Allan will be submitted to further tests.”

A return to full activity after an injury of this type can take up to four weeks, meaning Allan may miss the Coppa Italia trip to Juventus and the return leg with Real Madrid in the Champions League.

Socrates · February 21, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Nuno: 'Porto clear ideas with Juve'

http://www.football-italia.net/98689/nuno-porto-clear-ideas-juve

Feb 21, 2017

Porto Coach Nuno Espirito Santo assured they have “clear ideas” against Juventus and doubts Leonardo Bonucci will be dropped.

The first leg in the Champions League Round of 16 kicks off at the Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“These are two big European teams, I’d say two among the best. Porto want to win because Porto are improving more and more, while a packed stadium of fans will help push us on to victory,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“Porto have not beaten Juve in the past, we know it’s a difficult game, but we will do everything possible to cause them problems.”

The Portuguese giants already eliminated Roma in the Champions League play-offs this season, a 1-1 draw at home and 3-0 victory at the Olimpico with Daniele De Rossi and Emerson Palmieri sent off.

“Since August and the difficult situation in the play-offs, we easily overcame many difficult obstacles and are capable of standing up to Juve as well. We are motivated and we are ready.

“Roma are a great Italian side and we got the better of them. Clearly even then I believed we’d be here fighting for the quarter-finals. Certainly.

“Results come from hard work, we have clear ideas, the players know what they have to do and that makes everything feel easier. We are ready to play with quality, aiming to win and we have home advantage in the first leg.

“There are 180 minutes at our disposal to achieve qualification and we will do all we can. Working in defence is fundamental, but that starts from the strikers and everyone helping out. We respect every opponent, but we have a young team, a hard-working team, a very united side with clear ideas and the pride to push forward to the next level.”

There are reports Bonucci will be sent to the stands as punishment following a touchline row with Coach Max Allegri.

“I am sure that Allegri, who is an excellent Coach, will know how to resolve any problems. In my view, Bonucci will play and I really doubt he'll be dropped."

Nuno Espirito Santo also shrugged off comparisons with former Porto tactician Jose Mourinho.

“I worked with him as one of his players, is a great Coach, but I have my own way of training and we are different. Of course, if I was to have a dream, it’d be to win what Mourinho has.”

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

UEFA Champions League Preview – Porto Vs Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2017/02/uefa-champions-league-preview-porto-vs-juventus/

Feb 21, 2017

Ahead of the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie, Porto and Juventus are in strong domestic form and have both registered wins in their last six respective matches.

The Bianconeri will start the match as favourites however Porto remain unbeaten at the Estadio do Dragao in all competitions this season and will be looking to defend their home record against the Italian Champions.

Nicholas Carroll previews the match for FIFTV, looking at the likely formations, who to look out for and what to expect from the match itself.

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Andre Silva: 'Porto start strong'

http://www.football-italia.net/98690/andre-silva-porto-start-strong

Feb 21, 2017

Andre Silva warned Porto will “start strong and there are no favourites” in the Champions League tie with Juventus.

The first leg in the Champions League Round of 16 kicks off at the Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“Gigi Buffon is a legend, but I work with Iker Casillas, who is also a great goalkeeper,” said the player in his Press conference.

“I’ll be happy if I manage to score past Buffon, but whoever manages to score and help my team to victory will be fine.

“We have studied Juve very carefully, they are a good side and solid, but we too have a strong strike force.

“I don’t believe there are any favourites in this tie and only at the end of the game will we see what the result was.

“Juve have a great defence, but we are good too and know how to play, how to score and how to react to situations. When situations change, so do we.

“We must above all focus on the defence tomorrow and if things go well there, I am sure we will win. We have to think positive and believe in our victory.

“We see Juve as a great team and hope that everything goes smoothly tomorrow. We’ll start strong in the opening minutes and maintain our intensity, but the important thing is to come out fighting.

“If we don’t believe in ourselves, then who will? I have to believe we are the best, so we must think like that to win.”

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Buffon: 'Bonucci teachable moment'

http://www.football-italia.net/98691/buffon-bonucci-teachable-moment

Feb 21, 2017

Gigi Buffon assured the Leonardo Bonucci row with Max Allegri was “down to the excessive desire to win” and his exclusion can be a "teachable moment" for Juventus against Porto.

The first leg in the Champions League Round of 16 kicks off at the Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“We are in a very good moment considering the recent results and performances,” said the goalkeeper in his Press conference.

“We are aware of how important the match is and the strength of our opponents, as in recent years Porto have always achieved their objectives and finish among the top sides.

“They have a lot of European experience and we have the utmost respect for them, for we know we’ll have to earn our qualification and will get no easy ride.

“As far as we are concerned, we’re not coming off this succession of European triumphs allowing us to take a Round of 16 tie for granted.

“There have been decisive improvements over the years, winning back respect and prestige in Europe, but we did that by starting every game and every round with the utmost concentration and lack of arrogance. That’s the only way I know of going as far as possible in this type of competition.”

There has been tension in recent weeks, for example Bonucci’s disagreement with the Coach and reports the defender will be left in the stands tomorrow as punishment. Did the captain make his voice heard?

“These are situations that happen in a team that has a lot of competition for places. I think Juve are now among the elite of football, so it’s normal that incidents like that occur, as the only way to be satisfied is victory and a great performance every individual wants to give to his team.

“If that doesn’t happen, this feeling of responsibility and desire to go beyond limits can cause you to experience some situations in a bad way. It happens when the level of a team is this high, but it’s nothing serious and nothing is compromised.

“I was asked if I intervened when someone didn’t have a perfect attitude, I think all of us have the duty to intervene when work is not done properly.

“As for other situations, we are all more or less the same age except me – as I’ve gone a bit beyond – but we all know how to behave and the dynamics of a locker room.

“I have no idea if Leo will play. The Coach hasn’t given us the line-up yet, so we’ll wait and see. All we can say in these situation is that if there is a very talented, strong and leadership-style players as Leo, we are the first who have to sacrifice ourselves for the good of the team and to maintain certain balances and values.

“Leo is a very intelligent lad who embodies the Juventus spirit, so I don’t think he’ll have any problems accepting any type of decision, as he knows he’ll do it for the good of Juve and will send a teachable moment to the others.

“Let’s say players experience all Champions League games differently to in Serie A or the Coppa Italia, because it is the most difficult test, the one we care about the most and want to impress in the most.

“I am fortunate in recent years that the club has built a squad strong enough to have ambition. At times, that team ambition can make you happier than getting an individual trophy.

“There’s no denying that if we reached the Final two years ago and went close to winning it, even with some small miracles, it means we were already a very competitive side.

“Over the last two years the club didn’t dismantle the squad or hold back when making important buys. Juventus send the signal to the fans and to us players that the club is competitive and ambitious.

“What gives me confidence is that I see the way we train, I see how much we care about improving, how much better we can be and how hard everyone works."

Buffon will make his 100^th Champions League appearance tomorrow, the first Juventus player to achieve this feat.

“I was told on the plane that it’s my 100^th Champions League appearance. To be honest, my ego got a bruising, as it felt like I’d played many more!

“Iker Casillas is a colleague I have always admired and continue to admire a great deal. He took a brave and difficult decision to challenge himself, he’s in great shape and I hope we both have great performances.”

Porto striker Andre Silva said it was his "dream" to score past Buffon.

“Andre Silva is a great danger, I know him very well and hope he can achieve his dream of scoring against me, but only if Juventus manage to get through! That would be the best thing. I have to be at my best to keep a clean sheet, as Porto regularly create chances and make opposition goalkeepers despair.”

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Allegri: 'Bonucci in Porto stands'

http://www.football-italia.net/98692/allegri-bonucci-porto-stands

Feb 21, 2017

Max Allegri confirmed Leonardo Bonucci is dropped for disciplinary reasons against Porto. “Out of respect for Juventus, the team and the fans.”

The first leg in the Champions League Round of 16 kicks off at the Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“Porto are a team and club accustomed to being in the Champions League. They are unbeaten since September, have conceded only 14 goals all season,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“They beat Bayern Munich and Chelsea at home in the last three years, have an excellent record and so this is a difficult test. We know the problems we’ll run into.

“The difference between playing at home and away is that we need to score an away goal.”

The elephant in the room was Bonucci’s situation, as after the defender and Coach exchanged insults in the final minutes of Friday’s 4-1 win over Palermo, it was reported he will be left in the stands.

During the pitch inspection at the Estadio do Dragao this evening, Bonucci sat on the bench with headphones on while Allegri and the squad were on the field.

“Tomorrow Bonucci will be in the stands. That doesn’t mean it has to be made into a big deal. Out of respect for the club, the team and the fans, this was the right decision.

“The case is closed. Leo understood the situation, as an intelligent lad and important player for Juventus. It’s a moment that will be useful for the future.

“I also had a reaction that was not right and not suited to the way I see football, above all with fans and children watching, so tomorrow I will give a charity donation."

Allegri was asked why Bonucci was punished, but not Paulo Dybala or Stephan Lichtsteiner for their irritated reactions to leaving the field this season?

“Things happened and that’s it. If Bonucci was the first to react like that, he might not have paid such a heavy price. It’s the rule of life – someone has to pay.

“I will give you four starting players: Cuadrado, Higuain, Dybala and Mandzukic. Will Miralem Pjanic play? You are asking that so you know if it's the five stars, aren't you? Clever. Well, Pjanic will play.

"Barzagli and Chiellini are fine. It’s an important moment of the season, four will go in the stands, but we have Empoli and Napoli coming up, so it’s crucial all the players stay together as a group during this period.

“There are tensions and a bit of chaos during a season, that’s part of the sport, but we don’t need to make things worse than they are. It is all sorted out, we move forward.

“We have to keep the focus on the most important thing, which is the game. These are 180 very difficult minutes, Porto are the worst side we could’ve drawn in the Round of 16 and we do not want to be distracted by a situation that does not exist.

“Nothing else happened. I spoke to Leo, he understood and we move forward."

Does Allegri believe that Porto will play with one or two strikers tomorrow?

“When you play in the Round of 16 of the Champions League, there are no favourites, especially between Juventus and Porto. I don’t know how they will play, but they will be very solid and less ‘Portuguese’ than we’ve seen them in recent years.

“They never lose their defensive solidity, even on home turf. Naturally they’ll be a bit more forward-thinking tomorrow to make the most of home advantage and open up the tie, but they’ll remain a very balanced side.”

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Allegri drops Bonucci for Juventus’ game against Porto

Manager’s pre-match comments ahead of Champions League clash

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/21/14680496/allegri-drops-

leonardo-bonucci-for-juventus-at-porto-disciplinary-reasons-champions-league

Feb 21, 2017

Juventus travel to Porto in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 on Wednesday. Manager Massimiliano Allegri spoke to the media ahead of the game, and insisted that his dropping of Leonardo Bonucci for disciplinary reasons is the right decision.

“Tomorrow Bonucci will be in the stands. That doesn’t mean it has to be made into a big deal. Out of respect for the club, the team and the fans, this was the right decision.

“The case is closed. Leo understood the situation, as an intelligent lad and important player for Juventus. It’s a moment that will be useful for the future.

“I also had a reaction that was not right and not suited to the way I see football, above all with fans and children watching, so tomorrow I will give a charity donation.”

He also spoke about tomorrow’s opponents -

“Porto are a team and club accustomed to being in the Champions League. They are unbeaten since September, have conceded only 14 goals all season.

“They beat Bayern Munich and Chelsea at home in the last three years, have an excellent record and so this is a difficult test. We know the problems we’ll run into.

“The difference between playing at home and away is that we need to score an away goal.”

Allegri updated the status of some players, including dropping some hints on who will play tomorrow -

“I will give you four starting players: Juan Cuadrado, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybalaand Mario Mandzukic. Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini are fine. It’s an important moment of the season, four will go in the stands, but we have Empoli and Napoli coming up, so it’s crucial all the players stay together as a group during this period.

“There are tensions and a bit of chaos during a season, that’s part of the sport, but we don’t need to make things worse than they are. It is all sorted out, we move forward.

“We have to keep the focus on the most important thing, which is the game. These are 180 very difficult minutes, Porto are the worst side we could’ve drawn in the Round of 16 and we do not want to be distracted by a situation that does not exist.

“Nothing else happened. I spoke to Leo, he understood and we move forward.”

Club captain Gianluigi Buffon also spoke about the Bonucci issue -

“These are situations that happen in a team that has a lot of competition for places. I think Juve are now among the elite of football, so it’s normal that incidents like that occur, as the only way to be satisfied is victory and a great performance every individual wants to give to his team.

“If that doesn’t happen, this feeling of responsibility and desire to go beyond limits can cause you to experience some situations in a bad way. It happens when the level of a team is this high, but it’s nothing serious and nothing is compromised.

“I was asked if I intervened when someone didn’t have a perfect attitude, I think all of us have the duty to intervene when work is not done properly.

“As for other situations, we are all more or less the same age except me – as I’ve gone a bit beyond – but we all know how to behave and the dynamics of a locker room.

“I have no idea if Leo will play. The Coach hasn’t given us the line-up yet, so we’ll wait and see. All we can say in these situation is that if there is a very talented, strong and leadership-style players as Leo, we are the first who have to sacrifice ourselves for the good of the team and to maintain certain balances and values.

“Leo is a very intelligent lad who embodies the Juventus spirit, so I don’t think he’ll have any problems accepting any type of decision, as he knows he’ll do it for the good of Juve and will send a teachable moment to the others.”

Porto player Andre Silva struck a confident note ahead of the game.

“Gigi Buffon is a legend, but I work with Iker Casillas, who is also a great goalkeeper. I’ll be happy if I manage to score past Buffon, but whoever manages to score and help my team to victory will be fine.

“We have studied Juve very carefully, they are a good side and solid, but we too have a strong strike force. I don’t believe there are any favourites in this tie and only at the end of the game will we see what the result was.

“Juve have a great defence, but we are good too and know how to play, how to score and how to react to situations. When situations change, so do we.”

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Porto v Juventus Champions League Preview

h http://www.juvefc.com/porto-v-juventus-champions-league-preview/

Feb 21, 2017

Porto v Juventus

Champions League – Wednesday, 22nd February – 19:45 GMT – Estádio Do Dragão (Porto)

Juventus

There’s a real feeling that Juve have turned a corner since the start of the year. Seven victories in a row in all competitions, 15 goals scored and just two goals conceded speaks volumes about the change in tactics, attitude and approach. Allegri’s biggest complaint was that his players had a habit of not seeing out results, of switching off and letting opponents back into the game. What we’ve seen since Allegri switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation is a more robust, hardworking and inventive Juve side, able to switch from attack to defence and back again, without the need for major changes to the line-up. While it’s been an impressive few weeks in the league where we’ve seldom been troubled, (with only a few exceptions) the Champions League game against Porto looks like a true test of where the team are at present.

Despite the impressive 4-1 score line, last weekend’s victory over Palermo looked a foregone conclusion after the first goal. The away side looked all too content to sit back and soak up pressure until Marchisio broke the deadlock. As they tried to play on the counter, Juve found space all over the pitch to exploit their weak points and despite not playing to their very best, they were able to win comfortably. Perhaps the most important aspect of the game was Dybala’s impressive performance; La Joya was instrumental in the victory, scoring a superb brace and setting up Higuain’s 18th league goal of the season. Despite looking a withdrawn figure in previous games, Paulo was more influential in this match, largely due to him being more decisive and imposing himself on the game. Its a welcome boost ahead of a tricky Champions League tie when every player needs to be at their absolute best.

Despite the optimism, the biggest talking point of the last few days has been the argument between Leo Bonucci and Max Allegri. The defender exchanged heated words with the mister before sprinting off the pitch at full-time without acknowledging the supporters. Tuttosport suggested that Juve would fine the player, but in his earlier press conference Max Allegri confirmed that Bonucci will be watching the game from the stands as punishment for his outburst. There’s a suggestion that the club are looking to send a message to the entire following a series of heated exchanges between certain players and the coach. For his part, Allegri acknowledged that his reaction wasn’t the right one and that he’d be making a donation to a charity tomorrow. “Nothing else happened. I spoke to Leo, he understood and we move forward,” Allegri concluded.

Gigi Buffon will start in goal while Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini both made the trip to Portugal making them likeliest pairing to start at the back, although Medhi Benatia might get a look in after his strong display last weekend. Alex Sandro is back at LB and Stephan Lichtsteiner will make his first Champions League appearance this season. Mario Mandzukic is fit and ready having missed out the Palermo game through suspension and he’ll play in his new role, alternating as a striker/winger who defends with all the tenacity of a veteran full-back. Juan Cuadrado was rested at the weekend and Allegri has confirmed he’ll start the game along with Dybala and Higuain in attack. Miralem Pjanic is also a confirmed starter with Sami Khedira most likely to play alongside him.

Probable lineup:

4-2-3-1: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Chiellini, Barzagli, Alex Sandro; Pjanic, Khedira; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain.

Injuries:

Mandragora (foot)

Suspensions:

None.

Porto

Probable lineup:

4-1-3-2: Casillas; Telles, Marcano, Felipe, Pereira; Pereira; Brahimi, Torres, Corona, Silva, Jota

Injuries:

None

Suspensions:

None.

Formation

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Boninsegna: 'Bonucci a Juve own goal'

http://www.football-italia.net/98701/boninsegna-bonucci-juve-own-goal

Feb 21, 2017

Juventus legend Roberto Boninsegna believes they are making “a big mistake” by dropping Leonardo Bonucci against Porto for disciplinary reasons.

Max Allegri confirmed the defender will be in the stands tomorrow in the Champions League Round of 16 after they exchange shouted insults on the touchline towards the end of Friday’s 4-1 win over Palermo.

“I’d say Bonucci should be fined, but that’s a long way from leaving him in the stands,” Boninsegna told Juvenews.eu.

“It would be a big mistake to leave him out, an incredible own goal. Players must put themselves in the Coach’s shoes and stay quiet. They must realise that they’re being rude and have to accept any decision he chooses: it’s called respect.

“This is going to be a difficult game. Clearly after five and a half Serie A titles, the Bianconeri are focusing on the Champions League, something they haven’t won in many years. Porto are a really tough nut to crack.”

Allegri confirmed in his Press conference that he will adopt a 4-2-3-1 system, starting Miralem Pjanic, Juan Cuadrado, Paulo Dybala, Mario Mandzukic and Gonzalo Higuain.

“I really like this approach and Allegri has finally found the right system, as Mandzukic adds vigour to the attack, above all away from home, seeing as Dybala struggles to make his mark outside Turin.

“I noticed Dybala does better at home in front of his fans, where he can play in a more relaxed manner. Away the defenders don’t allow him any space, they mark him tighter and he seems more timorous.

“Juventus need to get past Porto, then Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are real contenders, assuming Barcelona don’t overturn the 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

“I hope Juventus have a lucky draw in the quarter-finals so they only face one of these two sides in the Final.”

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Daniele Rugani can prove he has arrived when Juventus faces Porto

Daniele Rugani’s star is skyrocketing, but come Wednesday

he may face his first Champions League knockout game.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/22/14664586/daniele-

rugani-juventus-porto-2017-champions-league-round-of-16-player-profile

Feb 22, 2017

The city of Lucca lies in northern Tuscany. It is an ancient place. The first settlements on the site date to the Etruscans, and it had a role in the story of Julius Caesar’s rise to power. Home to just over 87,000 people, it wouldn’t be much different dozens of other sleepy provincial cities but for one distinguishing feature: its Renaissance-era defensive walls are entirely intact, a rarity for the region.

It’s somewhat appropriate that a city known for its walls became the birthplace to one of Italian football’s brightest defensive prospects.

Twenty-two-year-old center back Daniele Rugani is considered the future of the Italian national team’s back line and a bedrock of Juventus’ next generation. His star has been on the rise for the better part of three years, but on Wednesday night he is likely to face his greatest test — a knockout-round game in the UEFA Champions League.

Rugani’s rise began at Empoli’s youth academy. After spending 12 years in their academy system Juventus took him on loan from the Tuscan club in 2012 and he quickly led the Privmavera side its first Coppa Italia Primavera title in six years. They acquired him on a co-ownership, leaving him at Empoli to develop, and his profile steadily rose. When he finally got on the field consistently for Juve at the end of last year, he cemented his status as one of the best young center backs in the game.

There are two archetypes to center-back play. One is the destroyer model, exemplified by celebrated Juve defender Claudio Gentile and current star Giorgio Chiellini. The other is a more fluid, graceful interpretation of the position, relying on positioning and awareness. The great exemplars of this style are AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini and Juve’s Gaetano Scirea.

One of the best defenders to ever play, Scirea exemplified the libero position that was a common element of the tactics of the time. Much like Maldini, Scirea wasn’t a volume tackler, using his positioning and ability to read the game in front of him to bottle his opponents up. He augmented his defense with excellent on-ball skills, much like another current Juve star, Leonardo Bonucci, who is probably the best blend of the two styles currently playing the game.

Rugani is in the same mold. He’s not a volume tackler — if you take his Whoscored.com statsfrom his three years in Serie A and average them out it comes to 1.43 per game. Likewise, his numbers when it comes to interceptions, which average out to 1.23.

But he makes up for that, as Scirea did, with his positioning. He shepherds players into non-threatening areas, or simply keeps them immobile long enough for help to arrive or harass them into making their own mistake. He also contributes when he’s in possession of the ball. His pass completion has never dipped below 88.6 percent, and while he doesn’t possess the ability to cut a defense apart with a single long pass like Bonucci, his ability to play the ball out of the back is a key element, particularly in the modern game.

Against Porto, his ability to emulate the legend, particularly with the ball at his feet, will be a key.

Nuno Espirito Santo’s men employ a hard press that aims at forcing opponents to get rid of the ball quickly — and inaccurately. They aim to turn the ball over high up the field, and get the ball to their attackers as soon as possible. A good comparison here is Jurgen Klopp’s hyperactive Borussia Dortmund sides of 2008 to 2015.

This is the kind of side that a team like Juve, who often build attacks from the back, hate to face. It forces them to simply get the ball to a man in the same shirt rather than move it with purpose.

Juve have beaten this kind of tactic before, in the Round of 16 against Dortmund two years ago — albeit with a roster that looked entirely different from the one they now employ. They also had the full BBC defense at their disposal — something that will not be the case in Porto.

In his pre-match press conference, Massimiliano Allegri confirmed that Bonucci will watch the game from the stands, as punishment for the row the two engaged in after Friday’s win over Palermo. Given the fact that Bonucci has already been fined over the incident, this seems...excessive, and given the significance of the game perhaps a bit misguided. Regardless, Bonucci will not be on the field.

While both Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli have been included in the team for Wednesday’s game, both have been feverishly rehabbing leg injuries. If both are deemed healthy they will certainly start, but we’ve seen players — Chiellini in particular — rush back from this kind of injury only to aggravate it and be forced off early. Rugani figures to be the next man up, either as a starter or as a potential in-game replacement.

He will be critical. He’s had a taste of the Champions League, starting twice in the group stage this year and making his Juve debut as a late sub in group play last year. But the knockout stage is an entirely different beast. The margin of error is much smaller and the quality of the opponents increases exponentially. Porto isn’t Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, but they are a dangerous opponent, and the Estadio do Dragao is one of the most difficult places in Europe to play.

Rugani has passed all of his tests so far — coming on as a sub for Bonucci last year in the title decider against Napoli chief among them. But this will be by far the biggest. Should he see the field, he will have to make order of the chaos that Porto will try to create in the Juventus half of the field on the biggest stage of his life.

This is his biggest chance yet to prove once and for all that he is the future, both for Juve and for Italy. If he missteps, it will be something of a setback to his development. But if he commands the back as he has done in the past on this stage, it will be the biggest declaration yet that Juventus may indeed have the next Scirea at last.

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Sealed with a five-goal demolition -

Porto's journey to the last 16

Ahead of their exciting round of 16 clash with Juventus, we look

back at Porto's UEFA Champions League journey so far.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/7210/nissan/2017/02/22/32942772/-

Feb 22, 2017

The UEFA Champions League has reached the business end of the competition. It's knockout football. There is no margin for error, there can be no more slip-ups. Ahead of the round of 16, we take a closer look at how Porto made it through the group stage and assess their chances of marching into the quarter-finals.

THE JOURNEY SO FAR

Porto had to fight to make it the group stage after being drawn against Serie A giants Roma in the qualification round, sealing their place in the competition proper thanks to a stunning 4-1 win over the Italians at the Dragao. After making it, they lost just one of their six group-stage matches to finish second behind Leicester City in Group G.

MOST EXCITING MOMENT

A second famous Champions League night at the Dragao arrived on Matchday 6, when Porto knew victory would guarantee them a place in the round of 16. A much-changed Leicester City came to town with the group already sewn up, and were put to the sword as a stunning home performance saw Porto hammer the Premier League champions 5-0.

BIGGEST CHALLENGE

Matchday 2 had brought defeat to Claudio Ranieri’s side in Leicester and left the Portuguese with just a single point from their opening two matches. Their backs were against the wall, but Nuno’s side rallied from that moment and went into Matchday 6 unbeaten in 12 matches that saw them concede just two goals.

STAR PLAYER

The Portuguese appear to have found yet another superstar in the making in Andre Silva. The 21-year-old striker hit four goals in the group stage, including two vital winners that claimed all six points in their group-stage clashes with Club Brugge. The Portugal international has a big future, and Porto are hoping he can continue his excellent UCL form to ensure his present proves sizeable, too.

CHANCES OF PROGRESSION

Qualification as runners-up inevitably leads to a tough round of 16 draw and Porto will have their work cut out against an in-form Juventus side who are dominating domestically once more his season. The Old Lady also come into the clash with a perfect away record in this season’s UCL, but the Dragons are unbeaten in their last six home games with Italian opposition. It will be difficult, but certainly not impossible.

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Line-ups: Porto-Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/98738/line-ups-porto-juventus

Feb 22, 2017

Juventus start the Dream Team five star names with Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli, but Leonardo Bonucci is in the stands against Porto.

The first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 tie kicks off at the Estadio do Dragao at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

The Bianconeri are among the contenders for the trophy, but come into this tie without one of their key players.

Bonucci was sent to the stands as a message to the rest of the team after Friday’s touchline exchange of insults with Coach Max Allegri.

It means both Chiellini and Barzagli, who are making their comebacks from muscular problems, have to start in defence.

Stephan Lichtsteiner has his first Champions League appearance of the campaign, as he was left off the squad list in the group phase, but has since signed a new contract and been welcomed back into the fold.

They have won every match since adopting the new 4-2-3-1 formation and go with it again here, using Miralem Pjanic, Juan Cuadrado, Paulo Dybala, Mario Mandzukic and Gonzalo Higuain together.

Sami Khedira completes the midfield, picked ahead of Claudio Marchisio or Tomas Rincon.

It’s a special night for Gigi Buffon, who makes his 100^th Champions League appearance for Juventus, the first player to achieve that feat at the club.

Another legendary goalkeeper is on the other side, as Iker Casillas started again at Porto and is still delivering at the highest level.

Former Inter left-back Alex Telles starts, as does ex-Parma man Danilo Pereira, Ruben Neves (somewhat surprisingly chosen ahead of Oliver Torres) and one time Napoli transfer target Hector Herrera.

Watch out for Francisco ‘Tiquinho’ Soares, who arrived in January from Vitoria Guimaraes and has scored four goals in three games for the club.

Nuno Espirito Santo’s men are in fine form, winning six Liga games in a row, scoring 17 goals and conceding four.

They are unbeaten since January 1 and lost only three out of 35 competitive games this season.

Porto’s last European home defeat was 1-0 to Borussia Dortmund in the Europa League in February 2016.

Nobody has beaten Porto at home in a Champions League knockout round since Manchester United, 1-0 on April 15 2009, in the quarter-final. It was followed by a 2-1 win over Arsenal in 2010, 1-0 victory over Malaga in 2013, then in 2015 4-0 against Basel and 3-1 over Bayern Munich.

These sides have met only three times before with one draw and two Juventus victories, including the 1984 Cup Winners’ Cup Final.

Porto: Casillas; Maxi Pereira, Marcano, Felipe, Alex Telles; Danilo Pereira; Herrera, Ruben Neves, Brahimi; Andre Silva, Soares

Porto bench: Josa Sa, Miguel Layun, Boly, Andre Andre, Oliver Torres, Diogo Jota, Corona

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Pjanic; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain

Juventus bench: Neto, Rugani, Benatia, Marchisio, Asamoah, Pjaca, Dani Alves

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Marotta: 'Bonucci must follow rules'

http://www.football-italia.net/98741/marotta-bonucci-must-follow-rules

Feb 22, 2017

Juventus director Beppe Marotta insisted Leonardo Bonucci was dropped for the Porto trip because “he has to behave according to the rules.”

It kicks off tonight at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“Tonight is not just a test, but a very difficult game against a side that knows how to make home advantage count,” the director told Mediaset Premium.

“It will take a super Juventus, but we’ve got everything it takes.”

The build-up has been dominated by the decision to send star defender Bonucci to the stands after his touchline row with Coach Max Allegri.

“The Bonucci issue is very simple and we don’t need to release statements to prove we share certain decisions. We reprimanded both, then the Coach proposed this decision and we accepted it.

“It’s important to make certain things clear. It is now a closed case, Bonucci remains a very important champion for us. I don’t want to weigh up the mistakes made by Dybala, Lichtsteiner and Bonucci, we simply evaluated the decision to make and in our view it was the correct course of action out of respect for everyone, from the squad to the fans.

“It’s not an issue of apologies or not, we acted swiftly on Saturday and Sunday, when some expected a Press release that was not mandatory.

“We decided to intervene with the player and the Coach, as it’s better to keep some things in the family. I think that since football began this sort of dynamic has existed, it’s just that now there are so many television cameras that vivisect the game from every angle that nothing escapes attention.

“In football the ‘we’ is above the ‘I’ and we’re disappointed for Bonucci, but tonight 11 players worthy of this jersey will step on to the field ready for a great performance.

“Bonucci is a professional and he has to behave according to the rules. A disciplinary action will not change his capabilities, it’s a decision made for the good of everyone, but from tonight the case is closed.”

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

HT 0-0: Dybala rattles 10-man Porto

http://www.football-italia.net/98742/ht-dybala-rattles-10-man-porto

Feb 22, 2017

Porto had ex-Inter man Alex Telles sent off after just 27 minutes and Paulo Dybala hit the woodwork, but Juventus are still 0-0 at the break.

The first leg of this Champions League Round of 16 was the fourth meeting between these clubs and Porto had never won, earning a draw and two losses, including the 1984 Cup Winners’ Cup Final. Leonardo Bonucci was in the stands as a disciplinary measure after a touchline row with Max Allegri, so not 100 per cent fit Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli started in defence. Gigi Buffon marked his 100^th Champions League appearance for Juve. Porto were unbeaten since January 1 and lost only three out of 35 competitive games this season.

Paulo Dybala threaded through for Gonzalo Higuain, but Ivan Marcano made a decisive tackle as Pipita was preparing to shoot from 12 yards.

Iker Casillas rushed out to kick clear from Mario Mandzukic, but Porto self-destructed. Former Inter full-back Alex Telles dived into two reckless tackles on Juan Cuadrado and Stephan Lichtsteiner in the space of 74 seconds at the touchline, earning an inevitable double booking.

Down to 10 men, Porto replaced striker Andre Silva with defender Miguel Layun, and it gave Juve more confidence. Dybala tested Iker Casillas from distance and Sami Khedira nodded an Alex Sandro cross just wide.

Casillas had to be alert on a massive deflection, palming the ball out from the near bottom corner.

Dybala went very close on the stroke of half-time, his snapshot from the D thumping the base of the upright.

Porto 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Porto: Casillas; Maxi Pereira, Marcano, Felipe, Alex Telles; Danilo Pereira; Herrera, Ruben Neves, Brahimi; Andre Silva (Layun 30), Soares

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Pjanic; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain

Ref: Brych (GER)

Sent off: Alex Telles 27 (P)

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

0-2

- Marko Pjaca 72'

Dani Alves 74'

-

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Porto 0-2 Juventus: Substitutes Pjaca

and Alves give Bianconeri command

The Serie A side will take a two goal cushion into the second leg

as their hosts played most of the game with 10 men.

<br/><a href="http://oi63.tinypic.com/16lk213.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.goal.com/en/match/porto-vs-juventus/2380686/report

Feb 22, 2017

Marko Pjaca scored his first goal for Juventus and fellow substitute Dani Alves was also on target as they won 2-0 at Porto to take control of their Champions League last-16 tie.

Faced with the prospect of playing more than an hour with 10 men after Alex Telles was sent off for two yellow cards in as many minutes, Porto coped well as Juve saw a host of chances go begging.

The game appeared set to end a highly frustrating draw for Juve, but Massimiliano Allegri - who dropped centre-back Leonardo Bonucci in the wake of their spat at the end of Friday's win over Palermo - made a pair of inspired changes in bringing on Pjaca and Alves.

Pjaca finally broke the deadlock in 72nd minute, powering a half-volley into the bottom-left corner to end his wait for a maiden Bianconeri goal.

And just two minutes later Alves put Juve in complete command by converting from Alex Sandro's left-wing delivery to the far post.

The hosts never looked like mounting any sort of response and they now have a mountain to climb in the return fixture on March 14.

Dani Alves Porto Juventus Champions League

Porto started brightly and saw Yacine Brahimi go close when he curled a free-kick narrowly over after Giorgio Chiellini was dubiously adjudged to have fouled Andre Silva.

Juve soon began to dictate play without creating much in front of goal, Paulo Dybala spurning their best chance as he fired over on the stretch from Gonzalo Higuain's flick-on.

And the visitors were handed a huge boost as Telles lost all composure and committed two rash fouls in the space of as many minutes.

After raking his studs down the back of Juan Cuadrado's leg, the left-back needlessly slid into Stephan Lichtsteiner on the right flank, leaving referee Felix Brych with no choice but to issue a second yellow.

Cuadrado then immediately drove wide of the left-hand post before Miralem Pjanic forced Iker Casillas into action with a long-range effort.

Alex Telles Porto Juventus Champions League

Sami Khedira could only manage to turn Alex Sandro's left-wing cross wide, with Casillas then required to pull off a fine reaction save after Higuain's close-range effort deflected off Felipe.

The Juve onslaught continued and only the left-hand post prevented Dybala from breaking the deadlock with a fierce effort that had Casillas easily beaten.

Dybala did beat Casillas shortly after the restart when he lashed in at the near post from a clever Pjanic pass, only to be denied by the offside flag.

Juve were almost punished for their profligacy by Hector Herrera, who perhaps should have done better as he nodded wide from substitute Miguel Layun's excellent cross from the left.

A dipping volley from Khedira was only just off target and Higuain saw a sublime curling effort drift agonisingly wide as Juve's frustration grew.

But Allegri was able to breathe a sigh of relief when Pjaca lashed in after Layun inadvertently deflected Dybala's pass into his path.

Moments later Alves made an instant impact as he stretched to turn in the ball from the excellent Alex Sandro and, although Khedira missed a late chance to make it 3-0, Juve will head back to Turin extremely confident of progression to the quarter-finals.

Socrates · February 22, 2017

PORTO - JUVENTUS

0-2

- Marko Pjaca 72'

Dani Alves 74'

Round of 16 - First leg

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Estádio do Dragão, Porto
Referee: Felix Brych (Germania)

Team ratings - Juve substitutes

punish 10-man Porto

<br/><a href="http://oi68.tinypic.com/v4pksp.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.goal.com/en/match/porto-vs-juventus/2380686/ratings

Feb 22, 2017

TEAM RATINGS

Porto

1Casillas
Some fine reactionary saves and was decisive in coming off his line. A calming presence for Porto in defence.
13Alex Telles
Two senseless and altogether stupid challenges in the space of two minutes saw him sent off after just 27 minutes, costing his team dearly.
28Felipe
Read the game well at the back and combined excellently with Marcano to limit Juventus' looks at goal. Fatigue crept in as the clock ticked down.
5Marcano
An assured and composed figure in defence, but then dropped off a great deal in the second half. Nowhere to be found for the opener, and was late arriving as Alves doubles Juve's lead.
2M. Pereira
Beaten for pace on a few occasions, but showed good experience to position himself well to deal with the threat of Mandzukic and Sandro.
22Danilo Pereira
A good, physical presence in midfield to combat Juventus' patient build-up play. Limited their opportunities to build through the centre, though he faded as the match wore on.
6Rúben Neves
Some decent passes out from the back, but forced to play deeper than he would have liked as his side were deprived of possession. Positioning needed improving, before being replaced after an hour.
16H. Herrera
Offered good support for Maxi Pereira on the flank, though he didn't command the ball much as his influence going forward was limited.
8Y. Brahimi
His outstanding work rate proved vital. Consistently back to lend a hand in defence, while piecing together some decent, direct runs forward to provide little moments of respite for the defence.
29Tiquinho
Incredibly isolated up top, having to lead the line on his own following Telles' dismissal. Had a thankless task as he saw litle of the ball.
10André Silva
Looked in the mood early on, but was sacrificed for a replacement left-back after Telles' sending off.

Juventus

Substitutes

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Bonucci available for Empoli

http://www.football-italia.net/98812/bonucci-available-empoli

Feb 24, 2017

Juventus Coach Max Allegri confirms that Leonardo Bonucci is back in contention or a place for the match against Empoli.

The statement comes after the defender was suspended by the club for the Champions League match with Porto after an argument with the boss on the touchline against Palermo.

"There will definitely be changes, I have to see the team today and tomorrow I will decide.

"Bonucci? Leo is available again, so I will evaluate the situation, on Tuesday there's Napoli. [Gonzalo] Higuain will be assessed today, and [Sami] Khedira is more likely to be rested.

"The case with Bonucci was closed when I spoke with the club and the President, we had been to dinner after speaking with [Beppe] Marotta, [Pavel] Nedved and [Fabio] Paratici.

"We agreed on a line that is normal in terms of rules and discipline.

"These things happen, after the game he apologised, things have returned to how they were before and now he back available.

"The important thing is that there are rules, there is discipline and respect.

"Everyone saw what happened against Palermo, it was a situation that has went in full view of the world.

"In the dressing room it happens now and then, but these things are normal and they happen in a group situation.

"Bonucci is an extraordinary player, who plays with two great champions like [Giorgio] Chiellini and [Andrea] Barzagli. Leo could stay on the bench tomorrow due to a technical choice.

"But now we think about Empoli. They are currently the team that have scored the least number of goals, but they are also a team that gives away the least.

"They are very organised and we arrive from big games, after expending a lot of mental and physical energy but tomorrow we still have to take all three points."

Allegri then went on to talk about Marko Pjaca, who scored his debut goal for the club in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.

"Pjaca had given important signs, I had not dreamed even dreamed of the two changes on Wednesday.

"In the days following Palermo his attitude was different.

"Dani Alves? He is a champion, and he plays with the fun of a child.

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=TP_TN_110

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Allegri: 'Neto will start'

http://www.football-italia.net/98813/allegri-neto-will-start

Feb 24, 2017

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri reveals that Gianluigi Buffon will be rested on Saurday, with Neto given a start instead.

The Bianconeri are battling on three fronts, so is the Coach pleased with his side's progress?

"The club’s primary objectives were to to arrive in March and be in the three competitions and we have done that, because Juventus are fighting for the Champions League, we are fighting for the league and we are fighting for the Coppa Italia and on Tuesday we have the first leg against Napoli.

"Our win in Porto does not mean that we have already qualified in the Champions League, because last night Fiorentina proved this.

"The 2-0 gives us a good advantage but does not guarantee us to go through.

"So at the moment let's put this aside, but we already know that when we have to play the return match we will be attacked throughout the game.

"The domestic campaign is still long, we have direct clashes, we have to win matches like tomorrow and these are games where you definitely cannot take the wrong approach.

"The team is fine, it’s growing, in my opinion has great room for improvement both for individuals and in the team and to do this we must all be on the same side.

"Tomorrow Neto will play, in anticipation of Tuesday's game."

Marko Pjaca played in the 4-2-3-1 against Palermo. What does Allegri consider to be his proper role?

"His right role at this time on the wing, but above all the most important thing is that Marko is improving, he is growing from a technical point of view, both tactically and mentally.

"He also did some good things against Porto, and he scored his first goal.

"He’s a player who has a lot of technique, he is growing, so he will be important in the final stages of the season."

Finally, what does the Coach think to Claudio Ranieri's sacking at Leicester?

"First of all, Ranieri is the Coach that will remain in the history of football as well as at Leicester, football, so he should be proud of what he did.

"It’s a bad time, but unfortunately us coaches are bound by results, so what was done before is forgotten.

"He comes out the winner because the team is not in the bottom three, and is fighting to get through the round of Champions League.

"He got a good results in Seville and it was not easy, so for him it is win-win, as what he did remains."

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=TP_TN_110

Accedi

JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

Recommended Posts

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Manager’s pre-match comments ahead of Champions League clash

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Porto v Juventus

Juventus

Injuries:

Suspensions:

Porto

Injuries:

Suspensions:

Formation

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8983

Daniele Rugani can prove he has arrived when Juventus faces Porto

Daniele Rugani’s star is skyrocketing, but come Wednesday

he may face his first Champions League knockout game.