JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROMA - JUVENTUS

 

   3-1    

 

Mario Lemina 21'

Daniele De Rossi 25'

Stephan El Shaarawy 56'

Radja Nainggolan 65'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 36

 

Sunday, May 14th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Luca Banti

 

 

 

 

Daniele De Rossi, stingy Roma defence

delay Juve's Scudetto party with win

 

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/as-roma/104/blog/post/3126414/daniele-de

-rossi-stingy-roma-defence-delay-juventus-scudetto-party-with-win

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

 

Roma spoiled Juventus' Scudetto party and fired a huge shot in the race for automatic Champions League qualification by overcoming an injury crisis and becoming just the third team to beat the champions elect in 2017 with a 3-1 victory.

Daniele De Rossi's bundled 25^th-minute finish sent the Giallorossi on their way after Mario Lemina opened the scoring for a second-string Old Lady, and Stephan El Shaarawy's viciously deflected shot 11 minutes after the break was quickly followed up with a delightful team goal emphatically finished by Radja Nainggolan -- a doubt until minutes before kickoff with a calf strain. It capped a dogged, scruffy victory that was accomplished without injured top scorer Edin Dzeko and suspended Kevin Strootman, with starting false No. 9 Diego Perotti also far from 100 percent.

Roma stay a point ahead of third-placed Napoli with two simple-looking final games awaiting them, and now have second place and the Champions League's financial bonanza in their own hands. The four-point gap between Roma and Juventus doesn't mean that the title race is back on, but the sighs of relief from the boardroom could almost be heard over the din of the bouncing Stadio Olimpico. The club might actually be able to plan this summer's transfer activity and build on what has been a disappointing but by no means disastrous season.

Positives

Given the condition of Roma's attacking unit, they managed to cause Juventus plenty of problems, and the attitude was right from the first whistle. Having watched Napoli absolutely destroy Torino in the afternoon and knowing that a win was the only result that would do against the potential European champions, Roma stood up to the pressure and didn't let their heads drop after giving away such a cheap opener.

Negatives

Roma struggled ever so slightly to control the game once they were two goals up, with substitute Paulo Dybala causing the hosts plenty of problems and two presentable opportunities being passed up by the excellent Gonzalo Higuain and Leonardo Bonucci. You get the impression that had Juventus been desperate to win on Sunday, they could have stepped up another gear a bit sooner.

Manager rating out of 10

6 -- Luciano Spalletti's floating attacking four didn't quite come off, with a half-fit false No. 9 Perotti and Nainggolan failing to connect with Mohamed Salah and El Shaarawy on the flanks. Too often the four were flat across the pitch and didn't offer the penetration needed, but given the players he had at his disposal, he got as good of a display as could have been hoped for. Packing the midfield and defence to protect the two-goal lead easily could have backfired.

Player ratings (1-10; 10 = best. Players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating)

GK Wojciech Szczesny, 7 -- Could do nothing with Lemina's opener, but pulled off some fine saves in the first half to keep the score level.

DF Antonio Rudiger, 6 -- Was a frankly clumsy presence on the right. Always looks like he's about to commit an atrocious foul, but somehow comes out clean.

DF Kostas Manolas, 6 -- Did not cut across to pick up Lemina when he strolled through to tap in Higuain's fine lay off, but was otherwise class.

DF Federico Fazio, 6 -- Completely lost Higuain for Juve's goal, but recovered well to marshal the back line.

DF Emerson Palmieri, 6 -- Stuck to his defensive duties until the final 10 minutes, when he was let off the leash and relished every second.

MF Daniele De Rossi, 7 -- Brought his team back into the game just as another Juve procession looked inevitable and offered great protection to the back four. A captain's display.

MF Leandro Paredes, 7 -- His inviting corner kick led to De Rossi's equaliser. Ran the midfield alongside the captain.

MF Mohamed Salah, 6 -- Put in a patchy, hurried display saved by a sublime assist for Nainggolan, his 11th of the season, more than any other player in Serie A.

MF Radja Nainggolan, 7 -- Took his opportunity when it came. Charged through the pain barrier and got his award with a fine winner.

MF Stephan El Shaarawy, 7 -- Was fortunate to see his blocked shot spin off Bonucci and bend around a flabbergasted Gianluigi Buffon

FW Diego Perotti, 6 -- Was not at 100 percent and nowhere near his best. Out of sync with Salah and El Shaarawy and lacking a cutting edge. Great effort nonetheless.

Substitutes

MF Clement Grenier, N/R -- Put in 20 minutes of unfussed, subtle midfield play.

DF Juan Jesus, N/R -- Was brought on to bolster the defence as Roma looked to protect their two-goal lead and was composed on the left.

AM Francesco Totti, N/R -- Trotted around and took the applause from the Olimpico for a couple of minutes.

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

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROMA - JUVENTUS

 

   3-1    

 

Mario Lemina 21'

Daniele De Rossi 25'

Stephan El Shaarawy 56'

Radja Nainggolan 65'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 36

 

Sunday, May 14th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Luca Banti

 

 

 

 

Allegri: Loss to Roma a wake-up call for Juve

 

 

Manager’s comments after Bianconeri forced to put champagne on ice

 

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/5/15/15639182/allegri-loss-

to-roma-a-wake-up-call-for-juventus-post-match-comments-review-recap

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Juventus have a lot on their minds in their search for a treble, and were denied lifting a historic sixth Scudetto at the grounds of their bitter rivals Roma on Sunday night. Needing just a point to secure the title, Juve took the lead but were then reeled back in by the hosts to lose 3-1.

After the game, Massimiliano Allegri was almost pleased, saying his side needed the wake-up call as they were sinking into complacency.

“It was a good first half, with both teams very aggressive and determined. In the second half we conceded a strange goal on the counter from our own free kick.”

With just two games left in the season, Juventus will need two points form their remaining games, or for Roma to drop some points.

“I think we let our guard drop and thought we’d done enough to take the result home. The fact we drew with Atalanta and Torino, then lost here, it shows we’ve lost something in terms of concentration.

“At least it’ll be a wake-up call ahead of Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Final with Lazio. We had a good first half, we just needed to stay organised and not allow those chances.

“We were up against Roma, the second strongest side in Serie A, and anything can happen in the head-to-head clashes. We took that into account and knew the Scudetto would be decided in the other games, not against each other.

“I won’t say this was entirely unexpected, but not expected either. We had the game in hand during the first half and need to make sure we’re fully plugged in for the remaining weeks of the season.

“We have to take it one step at a time, because we’ve won nothing yet. We’ve got the Coppa Italia Final and then Crotone, while the Champions League is a month away.

“I thought after the equaliser we could still go on and win it, but we weren’t sharp enough. I realised from the first passes of the second half that we were falling asleep. We gifted them the ball!

“There are times in a season when the ball hits the post and goes in or hits the post and goes out. We knew a point here would enable us to win the Scudetto. We have to look at the positive, which is this’ll make us keep absolutely focused for Wednesday.”

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

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROMA - JUVENTUS

 

   3-1    

 

Mario Lemina 21'

Daniele De Rossi 25'

Stephan El Shaarawy 56'

Radja Nainggolan 65'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 36

 

Sunday, May 14th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Luca Banti

 

 

 

 

Juve must wait on title and wonder

if they'll rediscover focus in time

 

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/3126413/juventus-must

-wait-on-title-and-wonder-if-they-will-rediscover-focus-in-time

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

A point would have sufficed, but Juventus delayed their title celebrations yet again, losing 3-1 to Roma.

Despite playing with aggression and determination in the first half, Juventus lost focus and surrendered to mediocrity soon after taking the lead. Imprecise on the ball and lacking in organisation, Roma were gifted the opportunity to create several chances, converting three to seal the win and snatch second place in the league.

Positives

None to speak of, but as Massimiliano Allegri said, perhaps the loss will act as a wake-up call for Juve, ensuring they produce more concentrated and determined performances in their remaining matches, starting with Lazio on Wednesday evening in the Coppa Italia final.

Negatives

With the title virtually guaranteed, one expects Juventus might lose focus a little, but with an opponent like Roma one hoped for a more motivated performance. Should Juventus continue to practice mediocrity in the next few matches, they will struggle to switch it back on against Real Madrid in the Champions League final.

Manager rating out of 10

6 -- Considering the upcoming Coppa Italia final, Allegri thought it best to rotate his squad. However, a weakened team can only realistically challenge Roma if they play as a unit, and Allegri struggled to motivate his players sufficiently.

Player ratings (1-10; 10=best; players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating):

GK Gianluigi Buffon, 5 -- A few mistakes from the usually heroic goalkeeper. Should have done better on Roma's first two goals.

DF Stephan Lichtsteiner, 5 -- A poor performance from the player who should have done more against Stephan El Shaarawy.

DF Leonardo Bonucci, 6 -- Struggles to play with composure when not accompanied by his usual companions at the back, but he fought until the end and tried to score, consistently looking to produce the attacking passes to push the team forward.

DF Medhi Benatia, 6 -- Good at recovering possession, clearing the ball and producing the blocks, but he doesn't always play with intelligence and thus can be outwitted.

DF Kwadwo Asamoah, 5 -- Tried to stop Mohamed Salah from taking control of the game, and he hit the post, but anonymous for much of the game thereafter

Massimiliano Allegri's side will have to find the focus it's been lacking before some big matches coming up.

MF Mario Lemina, 6 -- Scored the opening goal, but he lacks composure and precision and cannot be relied upon to make the right decisions under pressure.

MF Miralem Pjanic, 5 -- Suffered against his former side and struggled to adapt to his new midfield companions. Unless deployed alongside a player who can help protect him, Pjanic cannot cope against physical opponents.

MF Stefano Sturaro 5 -- Aggressive, determined and physical, but not up to the task on a technical level. Rarely impacts a game.

FW Juan Cuadrado, 4 -- Another dismal performance from a player who struggles for consistency. Rarely capable of a decisive run, he proved largely anonymous.

FW Gonzalo Higuain, 6 -- Delivered the assist that led to Juve's goal but struggled to make a difference in a match where he was offered no assistance.

FW Mario Mandzukic, 5 -- Expends so much energy trying to contribute all over the pitch that he understandably struggles for precision in the final third. Couldn't influence the game.

Substitutes

DF Dani Alves, 5 -- Defensively, he is still not the reliable force Juventus can depend on, but he did try to push forward to create trouble.

FW Paulo Dybala, 6 -- Made an impact as he accelerated and dribbled his way past the opponent. Troubled Roma but not enough.

MF Claudio Marchisio, N/A -- Not on long enough to make an impact.

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

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROMA - JUVENTUS

 

   3-1    

 

Mario Lemina 21'

Daniele De Rossi 25'

Stephan El Shaarawy 56'

Radja Nainggolan 65'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 36

 

Sunday, May 14th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Luca Banti

 

 

 

 

Roma loss 'will be a wake-up call'

for Coppa Italia final - Max Allegri

 

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/3126407/juventus-

let-guard-drop-against-roma-massimiliano-allegri

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri believes the 3-1 defeat at Roma will act as a good wake-up call for his side.

The Serie A leaders needed just a point to secure a sixth straight Scudetto with two matches left to play.

Despite making several changes, Allegri saw his side take the lead on 21 minutes through Mario Lemina.

However, Roma were looking to get back above Napoli, who had won 5-0 at Torino earlier on Sunday and also keep alive their own slim hopes of beating Juventus to the championship.

The Giallorossi rallied and were soon level when Daniele de Rossi stabbed the ball past Gianluigi Buffon from close range.

Roma were ahead early in the second have when Stephan El Shaarawy's low shot crept into the bottom corner on 56 minutes and Radja Nainggolan then crashed home a third to complete the turnaround which leaves them just four points behind Juve.

The Bianconeri, meanwhile, must now regroup for their return to the Stadio Olimpico in Wednesday night's Coppa Italia final against Lazio and then look to secure the Scudetto at home to relegation-threatened Crotone.

Allegri told Italian broadcaster Mediaset Premium his men need to quickly move on.

"I think we let our guard drop and thought we'd done enough to take the result home,'' he said.

"The fact we drew with Atalanta and Torino, then lost here, it shows we've lost something in terms of concentration. At least it will be a wake-up call ahead of the Coppa Italia final with Lazio.''

"We knew a point here would enable us to win the Scudetto, but we have to look at the positive, which is this'll make us keep absolutely focused for Wednesday.''

Allegri added: "I won't say this was entirely unexpected, but not expected either, so we need to make sure we're fully plugged in for the remaining weeks of the season.

"We have to take it one step at a time, because we've won nothing yet. We've got the Coppa Italia final and then Crotone, while the Champions League [final against Real Madrid] is a month away.''

Roma boss Luciano Spalletti, meanwhile, feels his side proved a point.

"We had a good game and were missing several players, but we worked as a gritty side,'' he said to Mediaset Premium.

"What interested us was winning this particular game. The rest is irrelevant. If you want to pay us a compliment, it's that Roma were always capable of this, but it's more than the victory, it's proving the kind of people we are.''

Spalletti added: "Now we have got some big games coming up and we want to be absolutely focused.''

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

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROMA - JUVENTUS

 

   3-1    

 

Mario Lemina 21'

Daniele De Rossi 25'

Stephan El Shaarawy 56'

Radja Nainggolan 65'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 36

 

Sunday, May 14th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Luca Banti

 

 

 

 

Roma vs. Juventus 2017: Final score 3-1,

Underpowered Juve forced to wait at Roma

 

 

The Giallorossi fought back from a goal down to put

Juve’s championship celebrations on hold for now.

 

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/5/15/15638576/roma-

juventus-2017-serie-a-round-36-final-score-result-match-recap

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

The celebrations are on hold.

Juventus arrived at the Stadio Olimpico for their first-vs.-second battle with Roma needing only a point to seal their record-setting sixth consecutive scudetto. It would certainly be sweet to clinch it on the home turf of their most direct rival, but it wouldn’t be easy.

Luciano Spalletti’s men were riding the high of a dominant 4-1 victory over AC Milan, and Juve’s Champions League triumphs of recent weeks had papered over the fact that they had only managed draws in their last two games, against Atalanta and Tornio. By the end of the match, form held, and Roma’s 3-1 comeback win would put off the title party for at least another week.

Injuries played a part for both sides as kickoff time neared. Juve were without Sami Khedira after the German suffered a hamstring injury early in Tuesday’s game against Monaco, and Claudio Marchisio wasn’t deemed fit to start. Add in long-term absentees Marko Pjaca and Daniele Rugani, and it would certainly be difficult for Massimiliano Allegri to rotate and keep the team’s quality high.

As it was, Allegri formed the team into a 4-3-3, with Miralem Pjanic playing regista by default between Mario Lemina and Stefano Sturaro while Juan Cuadrado and Mario Mandzukic flanked Gonzalo Higuain in attack. Medhi Benatia deputized for Giorgio Chiellini while both fullbacks were rotated.

Spalletti, who was missing star striker Edin Dzeko, went with a hybrid 4-3-3/4-2-3-1, with Diego Perotti leading the line beside Stephan El Shaarawy and Mohammed Salah. Radja Nainggolan was tucked in behind Perotti, while Daniele De Rossi and Leandro Paredes completed the midfield.

As the game kicked off there were signs both good and bad. Lemina pressed hard from the first whistle, an indication that Juve would be coming in with energy and not look to sit back and hold Roma, a la the 1-1 draw with Napoli in early April. But the capital club managed a quick break when Salah was allowed to get down the defensive right. The run was eventually dealt with, but a corner a minute later produced a goalmouth scramble that saw Benatia block a shot and Stephan Lichtsteiner finally clear the ball out.

It wasn’t long, though, before Juve started asserting themselves. By the fifth minute or so they had taken the front foot, and Stephan Lichtsteiner lofted in a dangerous cross that Antonio Rudiger had to tap behind for a corner. That corner produced a similar scramble in front of goal. Mandzukic dribbled forever in the six yard box but no space opened up for a shot. Roma managed to get the ball off him, but it rolled to Kwadwo Asamoah at the edge of the penalty area. Given all day to set up, the Ghana international drove a powerful left-footed shot that slammed off of Wojciech Szczesny’s near post.

After Higuain ballooned a shot into the curva after a one-two pass with Mandzukic, it was Roma’s turn to threaten, as he came close to knocking the ball in after getting behind the defense on a long free kick delivery. The end result was a pair of Roma corners, but the defense held, and then, with the game poised at 50/50, Juve struck.

In the 21st minute, Sturaro skipped into some space and delivered a feathery pass into the box. Higuain one-timed it into the path of Lemina, whose simple tap-in gave Juve a 1-0 lead and, it seemed at the time, a clear path to the title.

But it didn’t last long. Four minutes, to be exact.

Roma hadn’t been producing much of a threat from open play, but from set pieces had created some danger. In the 25th minute, a corner from Paredes found Kostas Manolas. The Greek’s header was denied by Buffon, but De Rossi was there for the rebound. That effort was clawed away by Buffon, but De Rossi’s persistence paid off and he finally managed to fire it into the net.

The fault for the goal was two-fold: First Benatia, who didn’t even jump to take on Manolas, and then for Higuain, who was ball-watching and didn’t prevent De Rossi from pouncing on the rebound.

The rest of the half didn’t see much in the way of true chances. Five minutes from the break Mandzukic backheeled the ball to Sturaro, who cut inside and found Cuadrado on the other end of the box. The Colombian then took the wrong option, playing the ball short to Lemina rather than putting it across. Lemina had to recover to control it, and by the time he did was presented with a tight angle for his shot, which was deflected out for a corner. Salah got behind the defense but was only able to put a soft header right at Buffon, then El Shaarawy fired a bouncer at the keeper from long range. Cuadrado put a cross just over Sturaro’s head with the last meaningful act of the half, but Mandzukic could only pound the followup all the way out for a throw.

It looked like a fairly evenly matched game going into the break, and both teams seemed capable of scoring more.

Within five minutes of the second period starting, things started getting ugly. Two Roma players, Federico Fazio and De Rossi, were booked, and Nainggolan should have been. Neither side put together a credible scoring chance in the early phases, and it looked like we would be watching Juve see out an ill-tempered 1-1. Then a mistake.

In the 56th minute, El Shaarawy received a pass from Nainggolan at the top left side of the penalty area. He made himself a tiny bit of space and fired a curling grass-cutter. Buffon didn’t go for it, and turned to watch it skitter off the inside of the post and in to put Roma in the lead.

You don’t see Buffon dive willy-nilly for every shot anymore. He’s far too experienced for that. His judgement of shots in situations like this is usually impeccable, but this time, perhaps because the shot was simply that deceptive or perhaps because he was screened by a few of his defenders, he simply misjudged it.

Allegri responded quickly, replacing Lichtsteiner with Dani Alves to get some more attacking punch down the right. Alves immediately made his impact felt regaining possession before referee Luca Banti shut down what could have been a promising move by whistling Higuain for a foul. A minute later the job became a lot bigger.

Salah received a pass from Nainggolan at the top of the box and was confronted by Bonucci. The defender had him pretty well squared up, but Benatia for some reason put his full attention on Salah — and not Nainggolan, who had continued his run and slipped easily behind the Moroccan to slam past Buffon.

Allegri introduced Paulo Dybala to try to put spur the game’s pace. A minute later he took a pass from Bonucci and charged through the channel but was never in complete control, and when he tumbled into the box Banti correctly kept his whistle in his hand.

The Argentinian almost put Juve back in it with 15 minutes left when Mandzukic put in a cross, but his diving attempt at a header flew just over the bar, then a few minutes later put a free kick into the wall.

Pjanic, who to this point had been fairly quiet in his return to the Olimpico, nearly gave Juve a lifeline with five minutes left when he dribbled through the box and squared it to Higuain, but the €90 million man couldn’t get his attempt past the first defender. A minute later it was Mandzukic again putting in a good cross, with Bonucci sneaking past the shoulder of Emerson but putting it just wide.

The game moved into stoppage time and Juve should have had a penalty when Paredes threw Dybala to the ground at the top of the box, but Banti kept quiet. Roma put on Francesco Totti for a short cameo, and Higuain had one last chance to beat Szczesny but had his shot beaten away in fairly routine manner. A few kicks later, it was over, and Juve would have to look to next week to claim the crown.

LE PAGELLE

Gianluigi Buffon - 6. A rare error on El Sha’s goal, but fairly good otherwise. A double save still couldn’t prevent the first goal and on the third the defense never should have let Nainggolan through.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - 6. Not his best night, but put in a few dangerous-looking crosses, which is uncharacteristic for him. I couldn’t see much fault in the way he defended El Shaarawy on the second goal, the winger just managed to open up a tiny window.

Leonardo Bonucci - 6.5. Not a bad night but certainly not as imperious as he can be. Had to react to a lot of crosses as most of Roma’s attacks came through the wing.

Medhi Benatia - 3.5. I can’t believe Juve picked up his option. Every time he plays he has made some spectacular errors, and he bore the brunt of the responsibility for two of Roma’s three goals today. He didn’t even jump to challenge Manolas in the lead-up to the first goal and was focusing on the ball on the third when Bonucci clearly had himself in front of Salah. He should have picked up Nainggolan’s run. Almost let a clearance get blocked in the six-yard box not long after the goal as well, and had to be bailed out by Asamoah. If he plays in front of a healthy Daniele Rugani next year it will be a travesty.

Kwadwo Asamoah - 5.5. Had trouble with Roma’s pace and didn’t get forward enough to compliment Mandzukic on the left.

Mario Lemina - 6. Yes, the goal was simple, but he should be credited for making the run to get there. Faded badly as the game went on.

Miralem Pjanic - 5.5. Didn’t make a huge mark in his return to his old stomping grounds. Completed 88 percent of his passes, according to WhoScored.com but couldn’t create as much as the game wore on. Could have done more.

Stefano Sturaro - 6. Fans tend to reflexively skewer Sturaro when he’s on the field for dropped points, but those people need to check themselves. Stu was the least of the team’s problems. The pass that led to Lemina’s goal was stunning, and he ran hard all night.

Juan Cuadrado - 5. Cuadrado’s form has really dropped of late. His decision making remains poor, and he just didn’t do all that much on the right hand side today. The legions of his supporters need to realize that the team must upgrade on the right next season.

Gonzalo Higuain - 6. Excellent layoff on the assist, but never made Szczesny work hard with his shooting. He looks exhausted.

Mario Mandzukic - 6.5. Made a couple of excellent crosses late, but surprisingly lacking on the defensive end today. Wasn’t back to help as much as usual.

SUBS

Dani Alves - 6. Put in a heck of an effort, but the third goal right after his introduction changed the game.

Paulo Dybala - 6. Too often isolated when he got the ball. His dribbles were often met with a wall of three or more red shirts.

Claudio Marchisio - NR. On too late to get a rating, but he brought a stability to the midfield that allowed the rest of the team to push up.

MANAGER

Max Allegri: 6. Injuries and the need for rest limited Allegri’s options, and there are already very few things he can do to change things in attack without Pjaca. Maybe if Moise Kean was healthy? It’s also possible that he over-rotated when it came to the fullbacks — both looked uncomfortable with the pace they were facing.

TACTICAL ANALYSIS

Injury problems and the need to rest players for the Coppa Italia final on Wednesday forced Allegri away from the “Five Star” lineup and into a 4-3-3. At the end of the day he had few options and put cobbled together a decent unit out of what was at his disposal.

The main concern was the full-backs. Both Lichtsteiner and Asamoah seemed to struggle with the pace they were confronted by. In this system Cuadrado and Mandzukic weren’t as able to support them defensively, and when isolated they weren’t able to handle it effectively.

He often takes too long to make his changes, but the fact that he moved quickly after Roma’s goals was to his credit. But at the end of the day his limited options were his downfall.

ONE WEEK MORE?

The party is on hold for at least another week. The focus now is on Wednesday’s Coppa final against Lazio. Simone Inzaghi’s men also rotated heavily in their loss to Fiorentina on Sunday, but they’ve been on form in the last few weeks.

Juve will be looking to make a little bit of history on Wednesday. No club has won the Coppa three straight times. The team will likely look more like itself, provided Mandzukic is OK after a concerning-looking back injury kept him off the field for several minutes in the game’s end stages.

Back in January, Lazio were the first team that confronted the “Five Star” lineup. Dybala and Higuain put the game to bed within 16 minutes, and saw out a 2-0 win. They didn’t lose in the league again until today—and this certainly wasn’t the system that has turned Juve into the monster it has been over the last five months.

The first trophy of the year is in the offing. After that, the scudetto comes back into focus in what one would think would be a straightforward home match against Crotone. But first things first: beat Lazio.

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

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROMA - JUVENTUS

 

   3-1    

 

Mario Lemina 21'

Daniele De Rossi 25'

Stephan El Shaarawy 56'

Radja Nainggolan 65'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 36

 

Sunday, May 14th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Luca Banti

 

 

 

 

Roma 3-1 Juventus Match

Report & Player Ratings

 

 

http://www.juvefc.com/roma-3-1-juventus/

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Player Ratings

Buffon – At fault for the opener when the great man pushed away what could be caught, the ball falling to De Rossi who despatched for the equaliser on the second attempt. Had little chance with the 3rd but misjudged the curling pea roller for the 2nd. 5.5

Bonucci – rarely involved. Perhaps saving himself for when it really matters. 6

Benatia – Yet again looked a little clumsy in the tackle, and whilst I welcome him to the fold with his official permanent signing, I hope to see a much improved Mehdi after a solid pre-season with the club. 6

Asamoah – One of the few positive points of an otherwise very average showing. The Ghanaian hit the post with a splendid effort, hustled well and yet found little support on the flank. 6.5

Lichsteiner – Perhaps the most subdued performance of the season by the Swiss Locomotive who appeared lethargic and all too often over-run. His efforts to get forward were undone by an appalling showing by Cuadrado, and haphazard movement from Lemina. 5.5

Pjanic – Showed some nice touches as is always the case, but was left lacking targets making intelligent runs to find with his marvellous vision. Miralem is a playmaker, and to ask him to combine that duty with screening the defence, with no other midfielder in close attendance was a mistake. 6

Lemina – Other than the goal, the Gabonese was wretched. His passing was abject and his movement around the field horribly ill disciplined. 5.5

Sturaro – Why oh why Allegri did not stick to the 4-2-3-1 and play Stefano alongside Pjanic in the middle is beyond my ken to fathom. Stefano put on a plate the cross for Higuain which led to the opening goal yet failed to make his presence felt elsewhere. 5.5

Cuadrado – Barely involved, showed poor control, found space hard to come by and was carried by the team until hooked off late for Claudio. 4.5

Mandzukic – Toiled and tried to find the ball but has become less valuable in the final third when deployed higher up the field. We have found his best role for this side and must stick to it. 5

Higuain – Was unlucky with a couple of powerful efforts placed too close to the keeper. Otherwise well marshalled by the home defence and lacked smart support from his wayward team mates. 6

It is fair to say that Roma deserved their victory. They ceded possession and used the pace of their wide men on the break to devastating effect. Yet we did create pretty much as many decent chances and were clearly offering a side far removed from full strength. Had Asamoah’s shot crept an inch to the right and Dybala earned a penalty in the final minutes we would have been celebrating the title.

Allegri gambled and lost. Yet we remain on track for the scudetto, which should and must be achieved next week at home to vastly improving yet still weak Crotone. I do not agree with the rotation before key games, unless players really need the break, and this was a chance to win a historic 6th straight league title through achieving solely a draw away to one of our arch rivals.

We had no natural width with Lemina, Sturaro and especially Cuadrado all bang out of form. However, there is no need for misery, simply bother. And I will hope that Allegri is able to revive the spirits for the hugely important next two games. Two wins will bring us two prized pieces of silverware. It is that simple.

We did not throw the game, nor were we outplayed for the entirety. Though we can see how much our apparent squad depth requires improvement. This was not the game to test a 4-3-3. Nor was it the game to see if Pjanic can command the centre of the pitch alone.

A battle lost, an important one at that, but we remain in the driving seat to win the War.

We now regroup and focus on the coppa italia final when I expect to see a full strength first XI minus Big Sami.

forza juve

TGP

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

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROMA - JUVENTUS

 

   3-1    

 

Mario Lemina 21'

Daniele De Rossi 25'

Stephan El Shaarawy 56'

Radja Nainggolan 65'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 36

 

Sunday, May 14th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Luca Banti

 

 

 

 

Breathe: Juventus vs. Roma Edition

 

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/5/16/15638436/juventus-roma-

2017-serie-a-round-36-landmarks-of-turn-awards-match-recap

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

I don’t need to remind you that Juventus didn’t play well in the 3-1 loss against Roma. I am very aware that many people are many things — livid and incensed and frustrated, and they’re using lots of very bad words I won’t use here. And people are feeling upset at Allegri and at the team and they think all the players are reading all the newspapers and letting all the talk go to all their heads.

Hopefully I also don’t need to remind you — though I may need to remind Roma — that Juventus play in the Coppa Nazionale final on Wednesday, and oh by the way Juventus just got done defeating AS Monaco in the Champions League semifinals.

Roma is not playing in the Coppa Nazionale final; they lost in the tournament. They lost to Lazio. And Roma is not playing in the Champions League final, and they did not play in the Champions League semifinals, and they did not play in the Champions League quarterfinals, because they lost to Lyon in the Round of 16 of the Europa League.

Good for them, though!

Is it disappointing that Juventus trotted out Mario Lemina, Stefano Sturaro, and Kwadwo Asamoah in a game where it would’ve been beautiful to watch Paulo Dybala, Claudio Marchisio, and Alex Sandro ram the Scudetto down Roma’s throats? Yes, it’s disappointing.

Were Juventus still capable with the lineup today of playing much, much better than this? Of course.

Will the pressure now be turned up a notch even against lowly Crotone? Yep.

But please, let’s remember the following things:

1. Juventus are playing the in the Champions League final for the second time in three years on June 3rd. The opponent is Real Madrid. That is badass.
2. Juventus are playing the Coppa Nazionale final on Wednesday. They are playing Lazio — again — and it will be exciting.
3. Juventus need three points to secure the trophy. Roma can get to 87 points. Juventus currently have 85. And the final two games are against Crotone and Bologna.

Juventus was disappointing this weekend. I don’t deny that. But let’s not completely trash the Old Lady. When the Old Lady is difficult to deal with, you help her across the street.

In other news, at ye olde Mother’s Day brunch today I had a negroni, which always reminds me of Turin.

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

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                  

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Tagliavento for Coppa Italia final

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102621/tagliavento-coppa-italia-final

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Paolo Tagliavento has been assigned to officiate the Coppa Italia final between Juventus and Lazio.

 

The match kicks off at 21:00 CET - 20:00 UK time on Wednesday evening.

 

Alessandro Costanzo and Gianluca Cariolato will be the assistant referees, with the team completed by fourth official Davide Massa.

 

Tagliavento is yet to preside over Lazio this term, but did take charge of Juventus’ 2-1 defeat to Inter back in September and their 1-0 win over Sampdoria in March.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Mandzukic doubtful for Coppa final

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102637/mandzukic-doubtful-coppa-final

 

 

May 15, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Mario Mandzukic is a doubt for the Coppa Italia final against Lazio on Wednesday as Juventus confirm the striker has a problem in his lower back.

 

Mandzukic took a blow to his spinal region during Juve’s 3-1 defeat to Roma on Sunday and left the Bianconeri down to 10 men for a few minutes, before coming back on visibly pained.

 

“Mario Mandzukic last night suffered blunt trauma in his lower-back region and will be re-evaluated tomorrow,” read a statement on the Old Ladyi’s official website.

 

The 30-year-old has become a key player for Juve this season, taking ownership of the left wing in their 4-2-3-1 system.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Lazio’s Tare eyes home advantage

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102648/lazios-tare-eyes-home-advantage

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Lazio sporting director Igli Tare is hoping home advantage helps his club overcome “the best team in Europe” in their Coppa Italia Final against Juventus.

 

Juve are considered heavy favourites to defend the Coppa for a record second time, but Wednesday’s showdown will be played at the Olimpico – the home of Tare’s Lazio.

 

“Wednesday will be a difficult match,” the Albanian told Lalaziosiamonoi.it.

 

“Lazio will play with the awareness of being a team that are well and have grown so much this season.

 

“We’re not starting handicapped, we’re playing at home, although Juve are currently the best team in Europe, no doubt.

 

“We’re able to spring surprises ourselves. We’ve gone all the way for this trophy.

 

“Keita? He never had the chance to be the star of a campaign, but he’s succeeding in this one thanks to Inzaghi.

 

“Simone is one more man for Lazio and his work is there for all to see.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Bonucci demands ‘ruthless’ Juve

 

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102650/bonucci-demands-ruthless-juve

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Leonardo Bonucci has demanded Juventus “to rediscover their inner ruthlessness”, starting against Lazio in Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Final.

 

Juve passed up the opportunity to secure the Scudetto on Sunday as they lost 3-1 to Roma, which also marked the Bianconeri’s third Serie A game without a win, and Bonucci urged his teammates to use the result as “a wake-up call”.

 

“We talked, yes. We’re all experienced guys, men that know they have to find the ruthless streak needed to make this season become legendary,” the defender told Gazzetta dello Sport.

 

“We must recover the fun in our hard work and get back to scoring goals.

 

“Now we must recreate the good stress. Everyone now has to rediscover that inner ruthlessness.

 

“The KO must be a wake-up call. It’s useful to have a difficult game against a Lazio side that are in good form.

 

“The game will need the best Juve if we are to meet the first of our three objectives.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Immobile expects ‘angry’ Juve

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102658/immobile-expects-angry-juve

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Lazio striker Ciro Immobile says he expects an “angry” Juventus take to the Olimpico for Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Final.

 

Immobile’s belief stemmed from Juve losing 3-1 defeat to Roma at the weekend, but the Italy international also stressed the Aquile had “a 50 percent chance” of winning, while they and Coach Simone Inzaghi had aspirations of being “great”.

 

“The Coppa Italia? We’re feeling very well. We’ll try to approach the match with the utmost serenity. We’re very focused,” he told Radio Radio TV.

 

“Juve? They’re a great team. They reached the Champions League Final and have only lost every now and then.

 

“We’re aware of their strength and, as such, all of our thoughts are on this clash.

 

“We know that we’ll need the perfect game, since the Final is a one-off match.

 

“Juve are usually angry when they play after draws or defeats. Our defeat to Fiorentina? Lazio are calm, ready and working well.

 

“We’re very proud of what we’ve done and we’ll keep going as we are. We’re doing well, the fans are enjoying themselves and that’s what counts.

 

“Our objective is to be among the big clubs. Can I promise a goal in the Final? No, I’ve never done that. The future? I’m 100 percent involved here.

 

“I’ve felt the utmost confidence since I arrived and that’s made me very happy. Inzaghi is going to become a great Coach.

 

“I’m happy for him, he’s a good person and he’s giving the maximum. Europe is a fair fruit of his labour, plus that of the President, sporting director and Peruzzi.

 

“My renewal? We haven’t talked about it so much, there was the derby, then us qualifying for Europe.

 

“We’re focused. I think once the season ends, Lotito and Tare will meet and try to work for the sake of Lazio’s players.

 

“They’ve always worked well with us and we have no other thoughts [than the Final].

 

“Juve? I had some beautiful years in Bianconero. I joined them when I was 16, away from home.

 

“I have some beautiful memories of time there, but after that everyone makes their own choices.

 

“The Final? We’ll give more than 100 percent on the pitch because we know we have a 50% chance.

 

“We need the right mentality at a stadium divided in half. Our fans will be very supportive. Parolo will be there, he’s a fighter. He won’t give up, you’ll see.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Bonucci urges Juventus to rediscover

ruthless streak and become legends

 

 

Having failed to secure the Serie A title on two successive matchdays,

the Italy international is looking for the Turin giants to realign their focus.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/news/8/main/2017/05/16/35563602/-

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

 

Leonardo Bonucci has urged Juventus to rediscover the "ruthless" streak needed to clinch a first treble in the club's history.

 

After a 1-1 draw with local rivals Torino on May 6 forced Juve to wait for a record sixth successive Serie A title, Massimiliano Allegri's side were unable to get the job done last Sunday as they fell to a 3-1 defeat against Roma.

 

Their next chance to claim the title comes at home to relegation-threatened Crotone on Sunday, but before that they take on Lazio in the Coppa Italia final on Wednesday.

 

Juve are also chasing glory in the Champions League, facing Real Madrid in the final on June 3, and Bonucci has called on his team-mates to do all they can to ensure they bring all three titles back to Turin.

 

"We're all experienced guys, men that know they have to find the ruthless streak needed to make this season become legendary," the centre-back told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

 

"We must recover the enjoyment in our hard work and get back to scoring goals. Now we must recreate the positive intensity.

 

"Everyone has to find the ruthlessness within themselves. It must be a wake-up call. It's useful to have a difficult game against a Lazio side that are doing well.

 

"It will need the best Juve if we are to meet the first of our three objectives."

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Could Lazio forward Keita Balde be

the next big star from Serie A?

 

 

Juventus and Lazio go head to head in the Coppa Italia final on Wednesday night.

Whoscored.com examine why Lazio's rising star Keita Balde will be the man to watch...

 

 

http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11862/10879886/could-

lazio-forward-keita-balde-be-the-next-big-star-from-serie-a

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

While last weekend represented the first chance for Juventus to secure a record-breaking sixth successive Serie A title, Max Allegri clearly had other things on his mind. With the likes of Dani Alves, Giorgio Chiellini, Alex Sandro, Claudio Marchisio and Paulo Dybala rested, The Old Lady fell to a 3-1 defeat at Roma with one eye very much on Wednesday's Coppa Italia final.

The same could be said of fellow finalists Lazio, who also fielded a much changed line-up as they lost 3-2 away from home at Fiorentina. Simone Inzaghi actually rested even more of his first-team regulars than Allegri, but there was one man the Lazio manager couldn't bring himself to leave out. Indeed, while all eyes will be on the likes of Dybala and the resurgent Alves on Wednesday night, there's little question that Lazio forward Keita Balde is the man in form.

The 22-year-old has shown real promise for some time now but this has unquestionably been his breakthrough year. In the 3-2 defeat to Fiorentina, he scored his 15th league goal of the campaign. It's more than he managed in his previous three seasons at Lazio combined. It also puts him in the top 10 scorers in Italy's top flight this year.

 

Juventus vs Lazio

May 17, 2017, 7:55pm

 

It's an even more impressive return when you consider that 10 of the Senegal international's 30 league appearances this season have come as a substitute.

A strike rate of a goal every 124.3 minutes is a hugely impressive return, better not only than Lazio's leading marksman Ciro Immobile (22 goals at a rate of one every 133.8 minutes) but also Premier League stars like Sergio Aguero, Romelu Lukaku, Alexis Sanchez and Diego Costa.

His goal haul has rocketed over the past few weeks, thrusting Keita into the limelight ahead of Wednesday's Stadio Olimpico showdown. Indeed, with seven goals in his last four appearances, the youngster is the most lethal forward in Europe's top-five leagues over that period. Barcelona's Lionel Messi is his closest rival with six.

Lazio's Keita Balde has an impressive shot conversion rate

Keita's purple patch has coincided with a move to the centre-forward position but he is more traditionally considered as a wide player, where he is able to utilise his pace and power to trouble opposition defences. Indeed, his ability to beat a man is one of his standout qualities. Since breaking into the Lazio team in 2013/14, Keita has completed a dribble every 31.6 minutes, which ranks third of players to have made 100 or more Serie A appearances in that timeframe.

Previously, though, his end product was often found wanting. Keita only had a hand in six goals last season and his shot conversion rate of just 6.5 per cent was holding him back from being considered a genuine star of the future. But that is certainly beginning to change. His recent flurry in front of goal has seen his conversion rate for the current campaign jump to a very impressive 21.7 per cent, and his new role in a central position is certainly getting the best out of the former Barcelona youth player.

 

Keita has started just six games as a striker all season but has found the net nine times in said matches to record a sensational rating of 8.39 from WhoScored.com. Of the 46 players to start five or more games as a centre-forward, the youngster's score is the highest in Serie A.

The Juventus defence may well have to be at their imperious best on Wednesday to stop him. The Old Lady's backline have held firm against more celebrated strike forces, but they have come face-to-face with very few players in better form than Keita right now.

In fact, Juventus haven't faced the youngster at all this season as he was an unused substitute in the Supercoppa back in August, suspended for their first league meeting and away on international duty for the second.

He has scored against some strong opponents this season, however, including the likes of Fiorentina, Napoli and Roma. If he can add to his tally against the very best that Italy has to offer on Wednesday night, then Keita really will be living up to the hype.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

‘Juventus not thinking of treble’

 

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102666/‘juventus-not-thinking-treble’

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Giorgio Chiellini insists “the treble is the farthest thing” from Juventus’ minds ahead of the Coppa Italia final.

 

The Bianconeri can retain the trophy for the third season in a row with a win over Lazio, while they are also in the Champions League final and just one win from the Scudetto.

 

“We’re fortunate to be here for the third year in a row,” Chellini said, sitting alongside Coach Max Allegri in the pre-match Press conference.

 

“It’s an important result though, and one which is very difficult to achieve. We’ve been good and lucky in the last two editions, and we hope to win the first trophy of the season tomorrow.

 

“With the utmost respect, the treble is the farthest thing from our minds, the only thing we have in our heads is winning the game tomorrow, aware of the difficulties we’ll face.

 

“We’d be crazy to think about the long run, you can only do it game-by-game, that’s the only way to achieve results.

 

“We’re just focused on our objectives, we’re sorry for not having reached the Scudetto on Sunday.

 

“We still have everything before us though, it’s in our hands and with great calmness and conviction I’m sure we’ll begin to reap what we’ve sown over this year.”

 

The Bianconeri were beaten by Roma on Sunday night, will that provide motivation for today’s game?

 

“We analysed the matches as we always do, aware that we have to do something different; not anything more or less. “This year we’ve always been very good at exploiting every defeat, and taking every false step as motivation for a very positive period.

 

“So it’s always been a source of great impetus, and it’s not easy to turn negative episodes into so much positivity, and we’ll have to be good to do that again this time.

 

“In the midst of all this it has maybe been forgotten that we had four demanding games, with seven goals scored and one conceded and that - consciously or unconsciously - took some mental energy from us.

 

“The story of this year has been that we’ve always managed a little the advantage we have over the chasing pack, accelerating every time we saw them in our rearview mirrors and easing off a little when we could afford to.

 

“In theory it shouldn’t be that way, but when we looked at the calendar two months ago, we knew if we got into the semi-finals or even the final of the Champions League we’d have two or three very tough weeks, where we’d need an extra advantage.

 

“Thankfully we did really well in the past few months to guarantee ourselves the opportunity to handle the final stages of the season with calm and solidity.

 

“Now is the time to collect, but we’re very calm, determined and willing to start winning tomorrow night.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Chiellini: ‘Lazio like Monaco’

 

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102667/chiellini-‘lazio-monaco’

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Giorgio Chiellini believes the Lazio side Juventus will face in the Coppa Italia final are similar to Monaco.

 

The Bianconeri knocked the Ligue 1 side out of the Champions League last week, and they can secure the first trophy of the season with a win against Simone Inzaghi’s side tomorrow.

 

“In the last few weeks we’ve faced some quite similar teams,” Chiellini noted in the pre-match Press conference.

 

“In the end they have different characteristics, but Monaco have [Kylian] Mbappé, a striker who attacks the spaces, whoever plays out of Keita [Baldé Diao] or Felipe Anderson they’re similar players.

 

“I know Ciro [Immobile] well, he’s a challenging opponent, a good striker and so as always it will be important not to leave space.

 

“Lazio are a team who play very vertically, and they’ve found a great compactness this year.

 

“For that we have to pay many compliments to the Coach [Inzaghi] and the historic players who have pulled the team this far.

 

“We’ll prepare in the best way but, as always in finals, tomorrow will come down to the incidents, and for those to go in our favour we need to want it a bit more than them.

 

“Not just in words either, we have to prove it on the pitch as we’ve always done.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

Juve scrap Scudetto celebration

 

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102673/juve-scrap-scudetto-celebration

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Juventus have reportedly scrapped the Scudetto celebrations for this weekend after their 3-1 defeat to Roma.

 

The Bianconeri had prepared the festivities in Turin for the Crotone match, as they were seven points clear at the top of the table and needed only a draw at the Olimpico to clinch the title.

 

However, defeat in that game means Juve need one more victory in their final two rounds against Crotone and Bologna.

 

They also visit Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final tomorrow and will face Real Madrid in the Champions League Final on June 3.

 

According to La Stampa newspaper, Juventus chiefs decided to scrap the celebrations that were planned for this weekend.

 

Those included a stage on the pitch of the Juventus Stadium with live performances from Eros Ramazzotti and Francesco Gabbani.

 

There was also to be an open-top bus tour of the city after the match.

 

Crotone are by no means pushovers, as they have amassed 17 points in the last seven rounds and are one point off the safety zone.

 

At this point, it looks as if any Scudetto party will be postponed until after the Champions League Final in Cardiff.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Inzaghi: 'Anything can happen'

 

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102675/inzaghi-anything-can-happen

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Lazio Coach Simone Inzaghi warned “Juventus are the favourites on paper, but anything can happen” in the Coppa Italia Final tomorrow night.

 

It kicks off on Wednesday at 21.00 CET - 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

 

“We know this is a very important match for us, one that we earned on the field, because nobody has gifted us this chance,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

 

“We’ve had some great performances, beating Genoa, Inter away and the two-legged semi-final with Roma. We’ll have our say.

 

“What I asked of my players is to have no pressure and play with the usual humility. On paper, Juventus are favourites, but in a one-off match, anything can happen. We need the perfect performance.”

 

Lazio have lost both their Serie A encounters with Juventus this season.

 

“We deserved to lose at the Juventus Stadium, whereas in Rome we had done really well and then Sami Khedira scored at the first moment of distraction. We are in a stadium that we’re familiar with and want to play in the Lazio style.

 

“Whether they had won the Scudetto or not, it’d be the same Juventus. I always said that I wanted the Coppa Italia Final to be moved forward, because that would mean we had an Italian team in the Champions League Final and that is something for everyone to be proud of.

 

“I am very proud to work with this team and these lads, because I knew from last season’s seven games what certain lads would’ve given me. I knew they’d follow me and they did, as proved by our excellent start.

 

“We improved, ran into a couple of difficulties – such as the incredible defeat to Chievo, when we slipped to fifth place – but I said after that game that I felt confident. I saw the right elements in the squad and right now we’re in excellent shape.”

 

Both Juve and Lazio have shown a tendency to vary their tactics with three or four in defence.

 

“Regardless of systems, we have proved that we can play with three or four at the back, so what counts is interpretation. As for Juventus, we don’t have particularly clear ideas on how they will play at the back.

 

“If they have the three Italy internationals, then it’ll be a three-man defence, but if one is rested, then it’s probably four.

 

“What matters is that we’re facing a side of champions who deserve all their success, deserve compliments – which we personally gave them when meeting with The Pope today – but having said all that, football is strange and anything can happen in a one-off match.

 

“Juventus have no problem in sitting back and defending, which is when they are very difficult to break down, so we must be intense, aggressive, determined and run hard, otherwise you can’t win these games.”

 

The Coppa Italia Final is always played at the Stadio Olimpico, so can feel like a home fixture for Lazio.

 

“I think back to my first game at the Olimpico and there were about 4,000 people there. Last weekend our home game against Sampdoria was remarkable, reminding me of the days when we won the Scudetto. The players were also really struck by that glorious atmosphere.

“My first year as a player at Lazio, we won the Coppa Italia. My first season with the Primavera youth team as Coach, we won the Coppa Italia too. Now it’s my first full season as a Coach…”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Allegri: Juventus’ Mini-Season Starts In Coppa Italia Final

 

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102675/inzaghi-anything-can-happen

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

The Coppa Italia final marks the start of a mini-season that could see Juventus pick up a treble, in the eyes of Massimiliano Allegri.

On Wednesday night, the Bianconeri travel to the Stadio Olimpico to face Lazio as they aim to pick up the first of three trophies available to them in the next three weeks.

The game also marks their second trip to the capital in the space of four days and Allegri wants a much more improved display than that which saw them fall to defeat against Roma.

“On Sunday, we suffered from a lack of focus,” Allegri told reporters. “Over the course of a season, you have moments like that where things don’t go your way.

“The game against Lazio is the start of a 20-day mini-season for us. I’m optimistic because my team always feel that way too. Now we have to recharge any nervous energy and fatigue. Technique and skill counts for more.”

Allegri is anticipating a tough test from the Biancocelesti and believes that one man in particular is deserving of great praise for the side’s upturn in performances.

“It is going to be a tough game as any final will be,” the former Milan boss added. “After Sunday, we know that we have no more time to lose and we are facing a Lazio side who have had an extraordinary season.

“They have a very high quality squad and [Simone] Inzaghi is doing very well. He has a great understanding of the game and has gotten up to speed quickly. He will go very far in the game because of his practicality as a coach.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Now or never for Inzaghi

 

 

Lazio have lost their last six meetings with Juventus, so Edo Dalmonte 

warns Simone Inzaghi’s side must be perfect in the Coppa Italia Final.

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102679/now-or-never-inzaghi

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

At least on paper, Wednesday’s Coppa Italia final between Lazio and Juventus is a worrying one for Simone Inzaghi’s charges. Already beaten twice this season by the Bianconeri, Rome’s oldest team has been positively allergic to this tie since Massimo Allegri took over in 2014, never scoring against his men in the six Serie A games he has supervised, and losing each and every one.  

It’s a good job, then, that one-off Finals are a great way to buck trends. Even with no Sami Khedira (he’s unlikely to recover from his left thigh strain) and Miralem Pjanic suspended, the stars still seem to align for Juventus in this particular tie. Having come away from the Olimpico with a 1-0 win despite a poor Serie A performance, Coach Allegri did the double over the Biancocelesti by unleashing his winning 4-2-3-1 against Lazio in January, easily dominating the visitors in the reverse fixture.

Beyond ending the 3-5-2’s supremacy, the 2-0 January win heralded the emergence of Juve’s thick network of passing lanes: with Mario Mandzukic’s tireless running and Juan Cuadrado’s dynamism, the Old Lady found herself with another kitchen sink to throw at the opposition. Lazio’s midfield didn’t really know who to mark in Turin: even if they took the two full-backs and the two central midfielders, they couldn’t protect themselves against Paulo Dybala’s forays, Gonzalo Higuain’s new-found work ethic or Mandzukic himself.

With the new system, Juventus became something that Conte’s team never did - an XI capable of quick one-twos to create space, numerical superiority and penetration very quickly, with Cuadrado a particular highlight.

That said, Lazio themselves have undergone a number of transformations this season, flying in the face of the negative forecasts with a stunning campaign. It’s capped off by an all-but-guaranteed fourth place finish, not to mention a series of spectacular results, recently besting rivals Roma twice and hammering Sampdoria 7-3 at the Olimpico.

Coach Inzaghi’s 3-5-2 may also be the speed trap that brings Juventus to a halt. Defending deeper and completely smothering the Lupi in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final, the Biancocelesti countered their opponents with aplomb, using Ciro Immobile, Keita Balde Diao and Felipe Anderson’s pace to devastating effect. Imagine what they could do against the slower Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, especially down wings vacated by the attacking Alex Sandro and Dani Alves.

Eagles fans will be hoping that Juventus will struggle as much as they did against Atalanta, the only side to score multiple goals more than once against the Old Lady this season, and which coincidentally also relies on a well-oiled, three-at-the-back system with fast sucker punches. Lazio can also aspire to frustrate the Bianconeri as rivals Torino did by defending deep, though Juve admittedly fielded a weakened side in that recent 1-1 Derby draw.

With diligent marker Marco Parolo likely to recover, moreover, Lazio can hope to field a full-strength side in a game that is known for being unpredictable - whether it was Lazio’s own win over rivals Roma in 2012 or the Giallorossi’s 6-2 humbling of Inter in 2007.

The Capital club could also play on the fact that Juventus have to get everything absolutely right if they’re to win their own Treble - Inter needing to win three nail-biters in 2010 for the first in Calcio history, a fact which still rankles with the Bianconeri faithful.

The trouble is, Juventus are the complete package. They can recover from poor starts and have a first team so rich and a system so well-drilled that they can do just about anything to anyone. Even worse, they’ve been doing this for years, whether it was Paulo Dybala’s spectacular opener back in January or the Bianconeri’s comeback in the 2015 Cup Final - the Old Lady has made it a habit of breaking hearts left, right and centre.

As Inzaghi himself put it, Lazio will have to play the perfect game… and even that may not be enough. 

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Allegri: Juve have no more time to lose

 

 

Manager’s comments ahead of Coppa Italia Final

 

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/5/16/15647510/allegri-juve-have-

no-more-time-to-lose-start-of-mini-season-coppa-italia-final-preview

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Juventus play Lazio tomorrow in the Coppa Italia Final for a shot at the first title in a historic treble attempt. Manager Massimiliano Allegri spoke about the Bianconeri’s crucial period coming up ahead of the game.

“This is a Final and after last Sunday we have no more time to lose. We will face a Lazio side who have had an extraordinary campaign.

“I need to evaluate both Mandzukic and Dybala. Tonight I will decide on the line-up, but the 11 players I do choose will have a strong performance.

“Dybala had muscular problems after Monaco and I have to be absolutely sure that nothing else happens to him. There are days when you need to win and can’t get away from that.

“I rested Juan Cuadrado, while Gonzalo Higuain didn’t play against Torino. Sami Khedira played a lot this season, Claudio Marchisio has recovered and is fine.

“We played with four at the back against Monaco. I have to decide if Andrea Barzagliand Dani Alves play, and how. I need to consider many things today. We will certainly be concentrated, no matter who plays.”

Allegri fielded a weakened side over the weekend and Juve failed to clinch the Serie A title at the first attempt losing at Roma -

“I’d make all those choices again. So far the squad rotation has rewarded us, but the difference on Sunday was in the details. In the end, you can lose in these situations. When you aren’t quite as focused, the other team can take advantage.

“We won’t make that mistake with Lazio, who have a quality squad. Simone Inzaghi is really bright, he learned things very quickly and will go far, because he is very practical.

“Tomorrow is the start of a 20-day mini-season. If we finish the Serie A campaign with 91 points, it’d be an excellent result, though Roma and Napoli could come close to us.

“It’s natural over the course of a long season to have a dip in form and unfortunately it happened against Roma. I would’ve been happy at the start of the season to have a four-point advantage at this stage.

“Tactics and technique no longer count right now, what we have to do is recharge the physical and psychological batteries. We haven’t won anything yet.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

'Now is the time to win' - Max Allegri

expects Juve response in Coppa Italia

 

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/3127577/juventus-coach-

max-allegri-expects-his-team-to-rebound-in-coppa-italia-final

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

 

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri expects his team to show their true colours on Wednesday night when they attempt to complete the first part of what could be a Serie A-Coppa Italia-Champions League treble this season.

The Bianconeri face Lazio in the Coppa Italia final having missed their first opportunity to wrap up the Serie A title on Sunday night, losing 3-1 at Roma. They can still clinch their sixth straight Scudetto by beating Crotone at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday but Allegri is first focused on clinching the first title at the Stadio Olimpico, saying he does not expect to see a repeat performance of their last visit at the weekend.

"Against Roma, it was just a matter of minor details and when you are not fully focused, anything can happen," Allegri said at a news conference on Tuesday. "That is why we lost, not because I rotated the team."

Further rotation can be expected on Wednesday but not because Allegri is already thinking ahead to Sunday or even the Champions League final against Real Madrid. Instead, there are doubts over the fitness of forwards Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala.

"I can assure you that whoever plays, they will be alert tomorrow," Allegri said. "I would repeat every decision I have made, also because my choices have been rewarded up to now.

"We will think about Cardiff after Lazio and after Crotone. Now is not the time to make any calculations: now is the time to win."

Defender Giorgio Chiellini also said that now is the time to deliver the winning results, suggesting that the weekend's defeat came at just the right time for them.

"We've done well this year to use every slip-up we have had to motivate us to bounce back positively," he said. "We had just lost a bit of physical and mental energy from four rather demanding fixtures, but we've always been able to manage our advantage this season, accelerating when we saw our rivals in the rear-view mirrors and slowing down when we had a comfortable lead.

"That's not how it should be, but it's not surprising. But now we're very proud and determined. From tomorrow night, we will start winning."

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Coppa: Juventus-Lazio latest

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/102687/coppa-juventus-lazio-latest

 

 

May 16, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic should be ready to start for Juventus in the Coppa Italia Final, while Keita Balde Diao is favourite to start for Lazio.

 

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday at 21.00 CET - 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).

 

This is a one-off match, so if they are level after 90 minutes, it will go to extra time and maybe even penalties.

 

Max Allegri warned he would have to keep a close eye on the fitness levels of forwards Dybala and Mandzukic, as both picked up muscular problems and are in doubt.

 

However, they both trained this evening and seem ready to start this first step towards a potential Treble.

 

Miralem Pjanic is suspended with Sami Khedira, Daniele Rugani and Marko Pjaca injured.

 

As with all the Coppa Italia games this season, Gigi Buffon is rested and leaves the gloves to Norberto Neto.

 

The other big issue is whether Juve will go with three or four at the back, but even then, will Dani Alves be at right-back or on the right side of the attacking trident behind Gonzalo Higuain?

 

Juve will need to bolster the wings when dealing with Lazio, who are expected to play with a 3-5-2 system.

 

The Aquile are without Federico Marchetti and Jordan Lukaku, while Marco Parolo was spotted today training with heavy strapping to his knee.

 

If Parolo can’t make it, then Luis Alberto or Alessandro Murgia could step in to midfield.

 

Keita Balde Diao has scored seven goals in his last four Serie A games, so partners ex-Juventus striker Ciro Immobile.

 

Felipe Anderson seems destined for the bench, though he could take on a wide role.

 

 

Probable line-ups

 

Juventus: Neto; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Marchisio, Rincon; Dani Alves, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain

Juventus bench: Buffon, Audero, Benatia, Lichtsteiner, Mattiello, Asamoah, Lemina, Mandragora, Sturaro, Cuadrado

 

Lazio: Strakosha; Bastos, De Vrij, Wallace; Basta, Milinkovic-Savic, Biglia, Parolo, Lulic; Immobile, Keita

Lazio bench: Vargic, Adamonis, Patric, Hoedt, Radu, Murgia, Crecco, Cardoselli, Lombardi, Luis Alberto, Felipe Anderson, Djordjevic

 

Ref: Tagliavento

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Juventus v Lazio preview: Juve set

sights on third Coppa Italia title

 

 

http://www.skysports.com/football/juventus-vs-lazio/preview/369677

 

 

May 17, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

 

Juventus will be aiming for their third successive Coppa Italia title when they take on Lazio in this season's final on Wednesday, live on Sky Sports.

The Turin side can extend their record number of wins to 12 if they can beat their opponents at the Stadio Olimpico, having lifted the title in the last two campaigns.

Juve can also seal their sixth successive Serie A title on Sunday and take on Real Madrid in the Champions League final on May 27, and manager Massimiliano Allegri has said Wednesday's game is the start of a "mini-season" for Juve.

"A 20-day mini-season kicks off tomorrow with the Coppa Italia final then our home match against Crotone and it ends in Cardiff with the Champions League final," he told a pre-match press conference.

"It's time to step up and start reaping what we have sown. Lazio have had a brilliant calendar year and I have no doubt that their coach Inzaghi will go on to do great things as a manager. They have an excellent squad and we will need to play very well indeed to beat them."

Allegri also added that he will check on the fitness of Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala ahead of the match, but otherwise reported no other new injury concerns.

Miralem Pjanic is suspended for this clash in Rome, with Daniele Rugani and Sami Khedira both unavailable due to injury.

Lazio have lifted the Coppa Italia on six occasions with the most recent victory in the 2012/13 season, and although manager Simone Inzaghi recognises that his side will be heading into the final as underdogs, he said they will be there to win.

"Obviously on paper you would have to make Juventus firm favourites," he told a pre-match press conference.

"As we know, with the right approach, anything can happen in a one-off game like this. It will take a perfect 90 or even 120 minutes for us to lift the trophy but we have prepared as best we can.

"This is a huge game for us. We have worked incredibly hard to get here and we fully deserve our place in the final. On the way, we produced brilliant performances against Genoa, then away at Inter and finally in the derby against Roma. We're here to win."

Marco Parolo is still a doubt for the Rome side, while Federico Marchetti and Jordan Lukaku are expected to remain sidelined for the match.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

 

                   

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, May 17th, 2017 - 9:00 p.m. CET
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Lazio Determined To Shoot Down Juventus’ Treble Hopes

 

 

https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2017/05/lazio-determined

-to-shoot-down-juventus-treble-hopes/

 

 

May 17, 2017

 

Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE

 

 

Juventus generally go into every game they play as strong favourites. In the Coppa Italia final against Lazio, however, they will face one of the most exciting and entertaining sides Italy has to offer

Ahead of their game against Fiorentina last Saturday, Lazio sat seven points short of Champions League qualification, but assured of a Europa League place, and their team selection against the Viola indicated they had all but given up on Serie A this term.

However, despite an all conquering Juventus team to face in the Coppa Italia on Wednesday night, it was also a clear sign that the Biancocelesti also feel positive about their chances of securing a first major trophy in four years against the Bianconeri.

Captain Lucas Biglia, Ciro Immobile, Dusan Basta, Senad Lulic and Felipe Anderson all started on the bench in Florence – Immobile and Anderson ironically entering the fray shortly before two quick fire Fiorentina goals – but will no doubt be waiting patiently on the Stadio Olimpico turf when the referee’s whistle signals kick-off midweek.

That the match takes place at their home in the nation’s capital is certainly a welcome advantage for the Aquile – winning 12 of 18 Serie A fixtures in Rome – although they have also been entertaining supporters up and down the peninsula this season.

Simone Inzaghi’s men have netted 20 times in their last five matches since drawing a blank during defeat to fellow goalscoring machine Napoli in the capital on 15 April, and will certainly test the resolve of a legendary Old Lady rearguard.

Even with Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini expected to be shielding second-choice goalkeeper Neto, Immobile and co will be confident of breaching a defence that has conceded just 26 Serie A goals this term.

However, despite that miserly total and a heroic defensive display to shutout Barcelona twice in recent weeks, Juventus have failed to keep a cleansheet in Serie A in the last five matches – and conceding three in the Olimpico to Roma on Sunday will be an excellent incentive for Lazio.

With a freshness in their legs from the limited minutes at the Artemio Franchi at the weekend, the Biancocelesti will look to exploit the energy and movement of Anderson, Immobile and Keita Balde in attack and support play of starlet Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.

As the Old Lady prepare for the final act of a potentially historic treble, it could be former youth striker Immobile that comes back to haunt them in Rome, after once more hitting the heights achieved at Torino in 2013-14 after a frustrating two years spread across Germany, Spain and another loan spell with the Granata.

The 27-year-old has already matched the 22-goal haul that should have seen him spearhead Italy’s 2014 World Cup campaign and has all the tools available to punish his more experienced national teammates to have a first senior medal hanging around his neck come full-time.

While the Italian international has rediscovered his goalscoring touch, he and his teammates will be hoping that history doesn’t repeat itself once more in favour of their opponents. When chasing the treble in two years ago, it was the Aquile who faced them in a rescheduled final due to Champions League final commitments.

Back in 2015, Lazio were again flying high – finishing third – and gave the Bianconeri a torrid time in the final, only for an Alessandro Matri goal to clinch the trophy in the seventh minute of extra-time.

An equally close contest is expected under the floodlights in Rome on Wednesday and there will be few eyebrows raised if Juventus’ treble hopes end a stage earlier than they did last time.