JUVENTUS SEASON 2017-2018

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

 

          0-3            ..

 

 

Miralem Pjanic 26'

Mario Mandzukic 36'

Blaise Matuidi 64'

 

  .........

 

17th Matchday

 

Sunday, december 17th 2017 - 03:00 p.m. CET 

02.00 p.m. UK time - 01.00 p.m. GMT
Renato Dall'ara Stadium - Bologna
Referee: Luca Banti

 

 

 

 

Donadoni: ‘We were a little naïve’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114444/donadoni-‘we-were-little-naïve’

 

 

Dec 17, 2017

 

Roberto Donadoni believes his Bologna players were ‘a little naïve’ at times in their 3-0 defeat by Juventus.

 

The Rossoblu were comfortably beaten on home turf by Max Allegri’s side, with goals by Miralem Pjanic, Mario Mandzukic and Blaise Matuidi.

 

Speaking post-match, the former Italy Coach admitted his team made mistakes when they could not afford to make any.

 

“I’d say that today was one of those matches in which you can’t make any mistakes,” Donadoni reflected.

 

“Juventus stopped us doing what we are good at. When it’s difficult to be at your best, it becomes fundamental to not give anything away.

 

“In some situations we managed the ball a little naively. Then, if you go behind it becomes difficult.

 

“We tried our best, but today we played against a tough team.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

                     ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Maresca refs Juve-Genoa

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114482/coppa-last-16-refs-announced

 

 

Dec 18, 2017

 

The referees for this week’s Coppa Italia last-16 ties involving eight Serie A teams have been announced.

 

Four matches will be played over Tuesday and Wednesday, and Napoli’s opener against Udinese will be overseen by Fabrizio Pasqua.

 

Davide Ghersini will take charge of Atalanta-Sassuolo a day later, before Gianpaolo Calvarese and Fabio Maresca take Roma-Torino and Juventus-Genoa respectively.

 

The Serie A officials have been reserved for VAR duty, with Luca Pairetto, Piero Giacomelli, Luca Banti assigned in that order, while the lesser known Valerio Marini is given Juve’s visit of Genoa.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

                     ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Mandzukic to miss Juve games?

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114484/mandzukic-miss-juve-games

 

 

Dec 18, 2017

 

Mario Mandzukic could miss Juventus’ Coppa Italia last-16 tie against Genoa on Wednesday after needing 13 stitches to a calf wound.

 

A training report on Juve’s oficial website confirmed Mandzukic missed training on Monday and required treatment to his calf, having been replaced towards the end of the Bianconeri’s 3-0 win at Bologna over the weekend.

 

His condition will now be assessed to determine whether he can face Genoa and also Roma on Saturday.

 

Stephan Lichtsteiner, meanwhile, resumed training with the squad, while Gianluigi Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini and Juan Cuadrado worked out separately.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

Juventus launch FIFA kit

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114498/juventus-launch-fifa-kit

 

 

Dec 18, 2017

 

Juventus have launched a special digital fourth kit, only available on video game FIFA 18.

 

The Bianconeri join Bayern Munich, Manchester United and Real Madrid in launching special kits which are only available in FIFA 18’s Ultimate Team.

 

The Juve version features a black shirt, with the club’s new badge superimposed on the shirts.

 

While it’s not available to buy, the Italian champions are marketing the kit as their fourth, joining the black and white striped home shirt, the yellow away one and the green third kit.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

                     ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

‘Rossi could play against Juventus’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114520/‘rossi-could-play-against-juventus’

 

 

Dec 19, 2017

 

Genoa Coach Davide Ballardini reveals Giuseppe Rossi could feature against Juventus in the Coppa Italia.

 

The striker signed for the Grifone earlier this month on a free transfer, having recovered from the latest in a series of knee injuries.

 

The Italian international has now been registered with the Lega Serie A, meaning he’s available to play, and he could feature against the Bianconeri.

 

“I’ll talk to the fitness coaches,” Ballardini said in his pre-match Press conference.

 

“He’s doing a mixed programme, team work and individual, and after that we’ll evaluate whether to call him up or not.”

 

Genoa face Benevento at the weekend in what could be a relegation six-pointer, but Ballardini’s focus is firmly on this match.

 

“We’re trying to prepare for this game in the best way. We can’t do anything else, we’re going to Turin to play the best team in Italy, one of the best in the world, and we’re looking forward to doing our best.

 

“As with Crotone, some of the lads who have played less will get their chance and this is an opportunity for them.

 

“I expect a good performance, because as I’ve said these lads are committed and do well during the week, they’re very professional.

 

“Juventus? They never get a game wrong. The big teams - and Juventus are probably the biggest, because as a club they’re different from all the others - have a squad and an education which is different from other teams.

 

“They’ll face this in the right way, it’ll be a real match.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

                     ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Chiellini returns for Juventus

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114523/chiellini-returns-juventus

 

 

Dec 19, 2017

 

Giorgio Chiellini and Stephan Lichtsteiner are back in the Juventus squad, but Mario Mandzukic, Juan Cuadrado and Gianluigi Buffon are all out.

 

The Bianconeri face Genoa in the Coppa Italia tomorrow, and have recovered the two defenders after they missed the weekend trip to Bologna with injury.

 

However, Mandzukic required 13 stitches to a calf wound after that match and he’s been left out, with captain Buffon still not fit enough to make the squad.

 

Mattia De Sciglio hasn't been included, with reports he's struggling with a thigh injury.

 

Juan Cuadrado also remains sidelined, but Douglas Costa is back in the squad and Marko Pjaca could make his first appearance of the season after recovering from a knee injury.

 

Juventus squad to face Genoa: Pinsoglio, Szczesny, Loria, Chiellini, Lichtsteiner, Benatia, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Rugani, Pjanic, Khedira, Marchisio, Matuidi, Asamoah, Sturaro, Bentancur, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Pjaca, Bernardeschi

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

                     ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Allegri: ‘Dybala plays against Genoa’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114524/allegri-‘dybala-plays-tomorrow’

 

 

Dec 19, 2017

 

Max Allegri confirms Paulo Dybala will play for Juventus against Genoa, but it’s “difficult” for Mario Mandzukic and Mattia De Sciglio to recover for Roma.

 

The Bianconeri face the Grifone in the Coppa Italia tomorrow, but their squad has been devastated by injuries.

 

With a clash with the capital club to come at the weekend, the Coach began his Press conference by talking about two of the injured players.

 

“These are two difficult recoveries, both for De Sciglio and Mandzukic,” Allegri admitted.

 

“Mandzukic has had 13 stitches and De Sciglio has a problem with his flexor, and we’ll evaluate him in the coming days.

 

“It’s difficult for him to be available against Roma though.

 

“As for tomorrow, Dybala, [Daniele] Rugani and [Federico] Bernardeschi will play.

 

“[Claudio] Marchisio is another player who could be part of the game tomorrow. Tomorrow is a game, an important objective, because it’s a competition which is worth as much as the league and the Champions League.

 

“It’s a competition Juventus compete in, which the lads have won for the past three years so we need to try and go as far as possible, create the conditions to reach the final.

 

“If we go through it will give us an important boost to face Roma on Saturday, these are four very important days between tomorrow and Saturday with Roma.”

 

Giallorossi Coach Eusebio Di Francesco praised Allegri’s European record, and the Juve boss was asked if he’d like to return the compliments.

 

“Di Francesco absolutely does not need my compliments, because he did really well with Sassuolo and now he’s doing really well with Roma.

 

“Roma is a complicated, difficult environment but he knows it because he played there. It’s a well put together squad with important players, and above all he’s been good at giving them balance, which means Roma give up very few scoring chances.

 

“As I said in the Press conference last week, the Roma goalkeeper doesn’t make many saves, he hasn’t made very many saves in these league games and, if I’m not mistaken, they’ve won 1-0 five or six times?

 

“So it will be a nice game, but we’ll think about it from Thursday, and I think we’d do better to face it with qualification in our pocket.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

                     ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Line-ups: Juventus-Genoa

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114597/line-ups-juventus-genoa

 

 

Dec 20, 2017

 

Juventus give Paulo Dybala a new centre-forward role flanked by Federico Bernardeschi and Douglas Costa in the Coppa Italia against Genoa.

 

It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT and the winners go through to face Torino in the quarter-final on January 3.

 

The Bianconeri are looking to retain the trophy, but Max Allegri is missing injured Gigi Buffon, Mario Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado.

 

Giorgio Chiellini and Stephan Lichtsteiner are not 100 per cent fit, but the full-back starts anyway, with Rodrigo Bentancur and Claudio Marchisio taking the midfield roles.

 

Dybala has been dropped for the last two Serie A games, but returns in a new role to suit the 4-3-3 formation, as a False 9 supported by Bernardeschi and Douglas Costa.

 

Genoa have Giuseppe Rossi on the bench for the first time since he signed as a free agent, as his international transfer finally came through this week.

 

Coach Davide Ballardini makes numerous changes, using Ricardo Centurion as the striker with Andrej Galabinov and Diego Laxalt.

 

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Rugani, Asamoah; Marchisio, Bentancur, Sturaro; Douglas Costa, Dybala, Bernardeschi

Juventus bench: Pinsoglio, Loria, Chiellini, Benatia, Alex Sandro, Khedira, Matuidi, Pjanic, Pjaca, Higuain

 

Genoa: Lamanna; Biraschi, Rossettini, Gentiletti; Lazovic, Omeonga, Cofie, Brlek; Laxalt, Centurion, Galabinov

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

                     ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Marotta: 'Have patience with Dybala'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114602/marotta-have-patience-dybala

 

 

Dec 20, 2017

 

Juventus director Beppe Marotta insists Paulo Dybala’s poor form is in reality “excessive media pressure on someone who can’t always be extraordinary.”

 

The Bianconeri take on Genoa in tonight’s Coppa Italia Round of 16 tie and Dybala starts after he was dropped for the last two Serie A games.

 

“It’s a perfectly normal moment for a young player who emerged suddenly, so we just need the patience to wait for him,” Marotta told Rai Sport.

 

“After all, people expect a great deal of him, but he’s a youngster who is under excessive media pressure, so it’s natural he can’t always put in extraordinary performances.

 

“When his performances are simply good, he is criticised, so people almost always view him negatively. All we need is patience.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

                     ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

HT 1-0: Dybala breaks Juve drought

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114604/ht-dybala-breaks-juve-drought

 

 

Dec 20, 2017

 

Paulo Dybala has given Juventus the half-time lead over Genoa in the Coppa Italia Round of 16, after several Federico Bernardeschi chances.

 

The winners of this tie go on to face Torino in the quarter-final on January 2, after the Granata surprisingly eliminated Roma 2-1 tonight.

 

After he was dropped for two consecutive games, Dybala returned to the starting XI in a new False 9 role, flanked by Federico Bernardeschi and Douglas Costa in a 4-3-3 formation. Gigi Buffon, Mario Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado were out injured, with Giorgio Chiellini not fully fit. The Grifone completely revamped their line-up in Turin.

 

A Bernardeschi cross-shot flashed just past the far post, then the ex-Fiorentina man went on a strong run to set up Douglas Costa, but Eugenio Lamanna got down to fingertip the angled drive off target.

 

Bernardeschi was dangerous again, hitting the side-netting, while Claudio Marchisio ran into space, juggled and hit the half-volley over.

 

Douglas Costa surged forward on the counter, his pull-back scuffed wide by Dybala from eight yards, then Bernardeschi’s spectacular free kick was palmed out from under the bar by an acrobatic Lamanna save.

 

Juve did break through with Dybala, who controlled on the edge of the box with a delightful turn to get away from defenders, immediately drilling into the near bottom corner.

 

There was almost a bizarre second, as Marchisio’s extremely wayward effort turned into an assist for Stefano Sturaro and Lamanna smothered.

 

 

Juventus 1-0 Genoa (Half-Time)

Dybala 42 (J)

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Rugani, Asamoah; Marchisio, Bentancur, Sturaro; Douglas Costa, Dybala, Bernardeschi

 

Genoa: Lamanna; Biraschi, Rossettini, Gentiletti; Lazovic, Omeonga, Cofie, Brlek; Laxalt, Centurion, Galabinov

 

Ref: Maresca

 

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

           2-0      ..

 

 

 

Paulo Dybala 42'

Gonzalo Higuaín 76' 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Coppa Italia 2-0: Dybala inspires Juventus

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114608/coppa-dybala-inspires-juventus

 

 

Dec 20, 2017

 

Paulo Dybala ended his goal drought and provided an assist for Gonzalo Higuain, as Juventus pushed Genoa aside to set up a Coppa Italia clash with Torino.

 

The winners of this tie go on to face Torino in the quarter-final on January 3, after the Granata surprisingly eliminated Roma 2-1 tonight.

 

After he was dropped for two consecutive games, Dybala returned to the starting XI in a new False 9 role, flanked by Federico Bernardeschi and Douglas Costa in a 4-3-3 formation. Gigi Buffon, Mario Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado were out injured, with Giorgio Chiellini not fully fit. The Grifone completely revamped their line-up in Turin.

 

A Bernardeschi cross-shot flashed just past the far post, then the ex-Fiorentina man went on a strong run to set up Douglas Costa, but Eugenio Lamanna got down to fingertip the angled drive off target.

 

Bernardeschi was dangerous again, hitting the side-netting, while Claudio Marchisio ran into space, juggled and hit the half-volley over.

 

Douglas Costa surged forward on the counter, his pull-back scuffed wide by Dybala from eight yards, then Bernardeschi’s spectacular free kick was palmed out from under the bar by an acrobatic Lamanna save.

 

Juve did break through with Dybala, who controlled on the edge of the box with a delightful turn to get away from defenders, immediately drilling into the near bottom corner.

 

There was almost a bizarre second, as Marchisio’s extremely wayward effort turned into an assist for Stefano Sturaro and Lamanna smothered.

 

Centurion should’ve equalised on 52 minutes when Andrea Barzagli’s rare howler of a back-pass was intercepted, but the finish was just wide from close range.

 

Moments later, Rodrigo Bentancur fired off target, but Genoa threatened too with Wojciech Szczesny’s fingertip save on a rising Andrej Galabinov strike.

 

Galabinov went close again with a curler from distance that skimmed the upright, but Stefano Sturaro was sent clear on goal only to roll it across with a weak intercepted pass rather than go for it.

 

Substitute Gonzalo Higuain eventually doubled their lead on a Dybala assist, bursting between two defenders to blast into the far bottom corner from just inside the penalty area.

 

Genoa introduced Giuseppe Rossi for his debut, marking the end of his latest injury nightmare, and his shot from distance wasn’t too far over.

 

The referee pointed to the spot when Kwadwo Asamoah lost possession foolishly inside his own area and took down Pietro Pellegri. However, with Rossi waiting to take the penalty, Maresca went to view VAR and changed his mind.

 

 

Juventus 2-0 Genoa

Dybala 42 (J), Higuain 76 (J)

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Lichtsteiner (Chiellini 73), Barzagli, Rugani, Asamoah; Marchisio, Bentancur, Sturaro; Douglas Costa (Higuain 61), Dybala, Bernardeschi (Matuidi 85)

 

Genoa: Lamanna; Biraschi, Rossettini, Gentiletti; Lazovic (Ricci 61), Omeonga, Cofie, Brlek; Laxalt, Centurion (Pellegri 72), Galabinov (Rossi 77)

 

Ref: Maresca

 

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

           2-0      ..

 

 

 

Paulo Dybala 42'

Gonzalo Higuaín 76' 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Higuain: 'Genoa did nothing'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114609/higuain-genoa-did-nothing

 

 

Dec 20, 2017

 

Gonzalo Higuain claims Genoa “did practically nothing” in the 2-0 Coppa Italia clash and hopes Paulo Dybala finds his Juventus confidence.

 

“These are games that can be traps. The important thing was to qualify, we did it with great intensity and Genoa practically did nothing,” Pipita told Rai Sport after scoring on Dybala’s assist.

 

“I could’ve had another goal, but the defender was closing on me and I got the ball stuck under me a little.”

 

 

Dybala found the net and created another goal after he’d been dropped for the last two Serie A games.

 

 

“I don’t think Dybala was going through a bad patch as such. He started very strong indeed and when he didn’t score for a few games, the criticism was over the top. I hope he can find his balance with this goal.

 

“It’ll be great to play in a Turin Derby for the Coppa Italia, but first we need to pick up three Serie A points against Roma on Saturday. That is going to be a real battle.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - GENOA

 

           2-0      ..

 

 

 

Paulo Dybala 42'

Gonzalo Higuaín 76' 

 

 

  .........

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Last-16

 

Wednesday, december 20th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Fabio Maresca

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Dybala must keep it simple'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114610/allegri-dybala-must-keep-it-simple

 

 

Dec 20, 2017

 

Max Allegri liked the new Paulo Dybala role to beat Genoa in the Coppa Italia Round of 16, but told Juventus off for giving the ball away.

 

Dybala was used as a centre-forward in the 4-3-3 formation, having been dropped for the last two Serie A games, and he contributed a goal and assist.

 

“We have to compliment the lads for their performance. We pressed hard and showed good intensity. In the second half, we waited for Genoa to move a little more and we finished off the game.

 

“it was an objective to reach the quarter-finals and the team achieved that in the best way,” Allegri told Rai Sport after a 2-0 result, which sets up a quarter-final against local rivals Torino on January 3.

 

“Dybala put in a good performance, as did the whole team. We all want Dybala to get back to being Dybala, as he’s an extraordinary player. He needed a good performance, but above all a goal, as it can help him find some calm and confidence, but it’s not as if he ever truly lost his way.

 

“Dybala just has to focus on doing the simple things. He doesn’t need to prove himself in every single game, as that only increases the pressure. He should play as he did tonight.

 

“I was satisfied with the overall performance, as we covered the pitch well and allowed Genoa nothing. Obviously, when Dybala is the centre-forward, then the box must be filled with runs from the wingers and midfielders. It’s something we can test out, but in order for it to work, we need the wide men to constantly push forward.”

 

The Bianconeri risked conceding late on, as Andrej Galabinov had a couple of great chances and Genoa were initially awarded a penalty for Kwadwo Asamoah’s challenge on Pietro Pellegri, but the referee changed his mind after viewing the incident on VAR.

 

“I was angry because we gave the ball away three or four times coming out of defence and with this one it was in the penalty area. If in doubt, kick it away. I wasn’t angry with the referee, but rather with my players for creating that situation.”

 

Juventus are in the Coppa Italia quarter-final for the 11^th year running, but first turn their focus towards Saturday’s Serie A showdown with Roma.

 

“We’ve got two days to prepare for Roma, we’ll see how the players who are carrying injuries are doing. It’s a head-to-head clash and Roma still have a game in hand, so they could potentially be right up there with us.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Douglas Costa: ‘Roma must be respected’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114632/douglas-costa-‘roma-must-be-respected’

 

 

Dec 21, 2017

 

Juventus winger Douglas Costa calls Roma “a great team” but assures “we have the quality to win”.

 

The Giallorossi lost to Juve’s city rivals, Torino, in the Coppa Italia yesterday but the Brazilian expects a different performance on Saturday night.

 

“They’re a great team and we have huge respect for them,” Douglas Costa told Sky.

 

“It’s true that they lost in the Coppa Italia, but Saturday will be a different game and we’re expecting a different Roma.

 

“We absolutely want to win though, and we have the quality to win.”

 

The on-loan Bayern Munich man also discussed Serie A, and feels he has improved since joining the Bianconeri.

 

“I have grown a lot in the defensive phase and on the tactical side. Serie A is a different league to the the Bundesliga, and the one I played with Shakhtar Donetsk.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Dybala to start against Roma?

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114633/dybala-start-against-roma

 

 

Dec 21, 2017

 

It’s reported Paulo Dybala will retain his place in the Juventus side for Saturday’s Roma game, but Gigi Buffon and Mattia De Sciglio won’t make it.

 

The Argentinian forward was dropped for the games with Inter and Bologna, but returned to the starting XI for the Coppa Italia tie with Genoa yesterday.

 

La Joya scored in the match, as well as providing an assist for Gonzalo Higuain, and Premium Sport reports he’ll keep his place against the Giallorossi.

 

With Mario Mandzukic expected to be fit only for the bench after having 13 stitches on a calf injury, Dybala could play on the right if Coach Massimiliano Allegri sticks with a trident in attack.

 

Juan Cuadrado could be called-up for the game, as his recovery from injury is progressing well, but both Buffon and De Sciglio will almost certainly be out.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Florenzi: ‘Better Juventus without Dybala for us’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114634/florenzi-‘juventus-will-tell-us-lot’

 

 

Dec 21, 2017

 

Alessandro Florenzi says Juventus “will be a fundamental game” for Roma, as “it’s a match which will say how we’re set and what point we’re at”.

 

The Giallorossi face the champions in Turin on Saturday night, having been eliminated from the Coppa Italia by Torino yesterday.

 

“The elimination from the Coppa Italia burns a lot,” Florenzi admitted, speaking to Sky.

 

“We’re disappointed, but we don’t have to make a drama of it. Our objective was to go through, but our thoughts immediately turn to Juventus.

 

“It will be a fundamental game for Roma’s growth, it’s worth three points like all the others but it’s a match which will say how we’re set and what point we’re at.

 

“First place [in the Champions League] gives us an answer but we have to do it in the league too and not just against Juventus.

 

“Who would I take from Juventus? Paulo Dybala, he’s a champion. They’re a great team and it’s never easy to play in Turin, we need to reverse the negative trend in their home and score points.

 

“It won’t be a game to decide who wins the Scudetto.”

 

This match represents the best defence in Serie A against the best attack, and unlike in recent years it’s not Juve who are the meanest…

 

“Defensive solidity comes from hard work. In our next few chances we have to find the way to goal more easily, we’re working hard on that from every point of view.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Allegri happy with Dybala resurgence

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114670/allegri-happy-dybala-resurgence

 

 

Dec 22, 2017

 

Max Allegri has refused to confirm whether Paulo Dybala will start Juventus-Roma but says “he’s back among the goals and I’m happy about that.”

 

Dybala scored his first goal in a month during Juve’s 2-0 win against Genoa midweek, and while he stopped short of naming the forward in his team for Saturday, Allegri assured benching him “doesn’t mean anything.”

 

“Buffon and De Sciglio are out, I’ll assess Mandzukic and Cuadrado today and they could be available,” the Coach said at a Press conference.

 

“The others, apart from Howedes, are fine. Preparation? Nothing’s changed, although we’ll see just how much panettone we all eat on the 25th! We’re in a good way at the moment.

 

“Barzagli or Lichtsteiner? I still have to make a decision on them, although I have 6/10 of the team clear in my head.

 

“These include Szczesny, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro and Higuain. I still have to see if I’ll play with the two or three midfielders.

 

“Dybala? I still have to decide who will play, but he’s back among the goals and I’m happy about that.

 

“In 2017, he was the player who played more than anyone else, 38 times. If he’s on the bench twice, it doesn’t mean anything.

 

“Di Francesco? He’s balancing a very difficult environment, where you can crash and burn in an instant.

 

“In fact, they’re a team that have conceded just 10 goals and only one away from home. They’re the team that have played the least number of minutes in Italy and have so much quality and balance.

 

“Mandzukic and Dybala? They can play together with three midfielders. It depends on our opponents and who plays at right-back.

 

“Lichtsteiner is different from Barzagli, whereas Cuadrado would give us even more thrust.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Allegri: Cuadrado full-back …

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114673/allegri-no-schick-regrets-cuadrado…

 

 

Dec 22, 2017

 

Max Allegri insists he has “no regrets” about Juventus not signing Patrik Schick and reveals Juan Cuadrado could play at full-back against Roma.

 

“Defence? Within a season, there are times when you concede more goals or a little less, the same goes for scoring, the Coach said at a Press conference.

 

“Pjanic, for example, supposedly stopped scoring free kicks. The season is so long that it’s made of moments, and the best solution is to manage these moments.

 

“There are no failures or promotions, you just manage the players according to their condition.

 

“When there are big games, we always talk about balanced contests, it was like that with Napoli and Inter, and it’ll be like that with Roma…

 

“Numbers in the long run are never random, they say everything about the value of Juventus.

 

“Bernardeschi? He’s grown a lot, he ‘s always been decisive whenever he’s played. He dropped off in his last big game, but it’s normal to lose your rhythm when you play less.

 

“He has important physical and technical qualities, plus he’s growing, especially in terms of mentality. He’s improved a lot but still needs to improve further.

 

“Matuidi? He’s a bit of a tramp, but it’s all good, I’m just joking! It means that he’s running here from morning to night.

 

“PSG? They’re built to win the Champions League, but the Champions League is tough to win.

 

“Alisson? It’s still difficult to talk about him, I see him twice a year. I can certainly say that so far, he’s made a few important saves because Roma give away little.

 

“Schick? I don’t have any regrets because the club had an important transfer campaign last time out, signing important young players.

 

“I don’t have anything to envy Roma for because I already have a top team and they’re certainly a rival for the Scudetto.

 

“I can’t say whether their loss of form after facing them is a coincidence. They’re doing important things, but they can also go through a spell when things are a bit more difficult.

 

“Cuadrado? He could play as a full-back tomorrow.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Mandzukic back against Roma

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114690/mandzukic-back-against-roma

 

 

Dec 22, 2017

 

Juan Cuadrado and Mario Mandzukic are back for Juventus, but Gigi Buffon again misses the showdown with Roma.

 

It kicks off on Saturday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

Max Allegri is once again forced to do without captain and first choice goalkeeper Buffon, who is suffering from a calf injury.

 

Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes are also out of action.

 

However, Mandzukic and Cuadrado have returned to the squad, even if it’s not clear whether they will be in the starting XI.

 

This is a special fixture for former Giallorossi players Miralem Pjanic, Medhi Benatia and Wojciech Szczesny.

 

Juventus squad for Roma: Chiellini, Benatia, Pjanic, Khedira, Cuadrado, Marchisio, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Alex Sandro, Matuidi, Barzagli, Pinsoglio, Mandzukic, Pjaca, Asamoah, Szczesny, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Bentancur, Bernardeschi, Loria

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Roma's struggles in Turin

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114708/romas-struggles-turin

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

Roma go to Turin tonight looking for their first win away to Juventus since January 2010.

 

The Giallorossi can go level on points with the champions if they win tonight, but they haven’t beaten the Old Lady away from home in close to eight years.

 

On January 23, 2010; a Francesco Totti penalty cancelled out Alessandro Del Piero’s opener, and John Arne Riise grabbed a 93rd-minute winner after Gianluigi Buffon had been sent off.

 

There have been seven Serie A meetings in Piedmont since then, with six wins for the Bianconeri and just one draw.

 

Indeed, the overall record between the sides is heavily weighted in favour of Juve.

 

In 85 Serie A matches in Turin, Juventus have won 56, drawn 21 and lost just eight; scoring 167 goals in that time and conceding only 60.

 

The widest margin of victory in these matches was a 7-1 win for Juve in the 1931-32 season, with the Lupi winning by two goals on three occasions.

 

However, Roma did win the last match between these two sides, taking a 3-1 victory at the Stadio Olimpico toward the end of last season.

 

Tonight’s game sees the league’s best attack meet its strongest defence, with Juventus having scored 44 goals in 17 games, while Roma have conceded only 10 in 16.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Probable line-ups: Juventus-Roma

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114720/probable-line-ups-juventus-roma

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic should be back in the starting XI for Juventus, while Roma rely on Stephan El Shaarawy and Edin Dzeko.

 

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

This is a Scudetto showdown, as Juve are currently in second place and the Giallorossi are fourth, but with a game in hand.

 

Max Allegri is keeping everyone guessing, as he is without Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes, so Wojciech Szczesny starts against his old club.

 

Dybala was dropped for two Serie A rounds in a row and broke his goal drought in the Coppa Italia win over Genoa midweek.

 

La Joya is expected to return and with him the 4-2-3-1 formation that had been abandoned in favour of 4-3-3.

 

Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado have shaken off injuries, sending Douglas Costa and Federico Bernardeschi back to the bench.

 

Juventus could also push Andrea Barzagli to right-back, in effect a three-and-a-half-man defence, often used in the Champions League.

 

Roma are missing Gregoire Defrel and Rick Karsdorp, but otherwise have a full squad to choose from.

 

Eusebio Di Francesco rarely strays from his beloved 4-3-3 system but, unlike mentor Zdenek Zeman, he makes sure the defence is solid.

 

In fact, they have the best defensive record in Serie A this season, while Juve are the most prolific in attack.

 

Alessandro Florenzi should get the right-back spot with Daniele De Rossi available again after suspension.

 

El Shaarawy and Diego Perotti are expected to flank centre-forward Edin Dzeko, leaving Patrik Schick on the bench.

 

 

Juventus (probable): Szczesny; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Pjanic, Khedira; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain

 

Roma (probable): Alisson; Florenzi, Manolas, Fazio, Kolarov; Nainggolan, De Rossi, Strootman; El Shaarawy, Dzeko, Perotti

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Juventus drop Dybala again?

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114730/juventus-drop-dybala-again

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

There are growing reports Paulo Dybala will be benched for the third Serie A game running, as Juventus host Roma tonight.

 

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

This is a Scudetto showdown, as Juve are currently in second place and the Giallorossi are fourth, but with a game in hand.

 

Max Allegri is keeping everyone guessing, as he is without Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes, so Wojciech Szczesny starts against his old club.

 

Dybala was dropped for two Serie A rounds in a row and broke his goal drought in the Coppa Italia win over Genoa midweek.

 

Nonetheless, Sky Sport Italia suggest La Joya will be sent to the bench yet again, as he doesn’t fit in the new 4-3-3 system alongside Gonzalo Higuain.

 

Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado have shaken off injuries, sending Douglas Costa and Federico Bernardeschi back to the bench.

 

Juventus could also push Andrea Barzagli to right-back, in effect a three-and-a-half-man defence, often used in the Champions League.

 

Roma are missing Gregoire Defrel and Rick Karsdorp, but otherwise have a full squad to choose from.

 

Eusebio Di Francesco rarely strays from his beloved 4-3-3 system but, unlike mentor Zdenek Zeman, he makes sure the defence is solid.

 

In fact, they have the best defensive record in Serie A this season, while Juve are the most prolific in attack.

 

Alessandro Florenzi should get the right-back spot with Daniele De Rossi available again after suspension.

 

El Shaarawy and Diego Perotti are expected to flank centre-forward Edin Dzeko, leaving Patrik Schick on the bench.

 

 

Juventus (probable): Szczesny; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Cuadrado, Higuain, Mandzukic

 

Roma (probable): Alisson; Florenzi, Manolas, Fazio, Kolarov; Nainggolan, De Rossi, Strootman; El Shaarawy, Dzeko, Perotti

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Line-ups: Juventus-Roma

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114749/line-ups-juventus-roma

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

Juventus drop Paulo Dybala yet again, but have Mario Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado back against Edin Dzeko and Stephan El Shaarawy’s Roma.

 

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

This is a Scudetto showdown, as Juve are currently in second place and the Giallorossi are fourth, but with a game in hand.

 

Max Allegri is without Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes, so Wojciech Szczesny starts against his old club, as do Medhi Benatia and Miralem Pjanic.

 

Dybala was dropped for two Serie A rounds in a row and broke his goal drought in the Coppa Italia win over Genoa midweek.

 

Nonetheless, La Joya is sent to the bench yet again, as he doesn’t fit in the new 4-3-3 system alongside Gonzalo Higuain.

 

Mandzukic and Cuadrado have shaken off injuries, sending Douglas Costa and Federico Bernardeschi back to the touchline.

 

Juventus could also push Andrea Barzagli to right-back, in effect a three-and-a-half-man defence, often used in the Champions League.

 

Roma are missing Gregoire Defrel and Rick Karsdorp, but otherwise have a full squad to choose from.

 

Eusebio Di Francesco rarely strays from his beloved 4-3-3 system but, unlike mentor Zdenek Zeman, he makes sure the defence is solid.

 

In fact, they have the best defensive record in Serie A this season, while Juve are the most prolific in attack.

 

Alessandro Florenzi gets the right-back spot with Daniele De Rossi available again after suspension.

 

El Shaarawy and Diego Perotti flank centre-forward Edin Dzeko, leaving Patrik Schick on the bench.

 

Roma have lost their last six Serie A trips to Turin, managing one point since a 2-1 victory in January 2010.

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Pjanic, Khedira, Matuidi; Cuadrado, Higuain, Mandzukic

Juventus bench: Pinsoglio, Loria, Lichtsteiner, Rugani, Asamoah, Marchisio, Bentancur, Sturaro, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Bernardeschi, Pjaca

 

Roma: Alisson; Florenzi, Manolas, Fazio, Kolarov; Nainggolan, De Rossi, Strootman; El Shaarawy, Dzeko, Perotti

Roma bench: Skorupski, Lobont, Juan Jesus, Peres, Castan, Moreno, Emerson, Gonalons, Pellegrini, Gerson, Under, Schick

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Chiellini: 'Juve-Roma Scudetto battle'

 

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114751/chiellini-juve-roma-scudetto-battle

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

Giorgio Chiellini admits Juventus v Roma this evening is “a real Scudetto battle” this evening and the teams share great respect.

 

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

“It’s a difficult game against a great opponent, a real Scudetto battle. We know what awaits us, as Roma are showing great spirit and quality this season,” the defender told JTV.

 

“We are ready, there is great respect for Roma, but also the desire to win the match.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                                          ..

 

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

HT 1-0: Benatia puts Juve ahead

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114757/ht-benatia-puts-juve-ahead

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

Medhi Benatia bundled a corner over the line to give Juventus the half-time lead against his old club Roma, with Wojciech Szczesny also decisive.

 

This was a top of the table showdown between second and fourth, along with an ancient rivalry that goes back to the very beginnings of Italian football. Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes were injured, but Max Allegri dropped Paulo Dybala for the third Serie A match running, despite his goal and assist in the Coppa Italia midweek. There were starts for ex-Roma men Wojciech Szczesny, Medhi Benatia and Miralem Pjanic. Eusebio Di Francesco only missed Gregoire Defrel and Rick Karsdorp.

 

Roma have lost their last six Serie A trips to Turin, managing one point since a 2-1 victory in January 2010.

 

Juan Cuadrado and Mario Mandzukic returned from injury, the Colombian’s first touch letting him down on a Gonzalo Higuain through ball and allowing Federico Fazio to block.

 

Mandzukic’s glancing header whistled wide from a Blaise Matuidi cross, as did Higuain’s, while Pipita chested down a long ball and Fazio timed his interception perfectly to prod it away.

 

Juve took the lead with a chaotic goal from Benatia. Giorgio Chiellini’s header from the Pjanic corner was brilliantly parried by Alisson, who also turned the Benatia rebound on to the bar, but could do nothing on the defender’s third attempt.

 

Higuain tried to pounce on a misunderstanding between Alisson and Fazio, going down under the goalkeeper’s challenge, but penalty appeals were waved away.

 

Roma were reminded on Szczesny’s reflexes when Diego Perotti rolled across for Stephan El Shaarawy to come sliding in, forcing the goalkeeper into a desperate save.

 

Radja Nainggolan blasted over on the half-volley and Mandzukic fired straight at Alisson.

 

 

Juventus 1-0 Roma (Half-Time)

Benatia 19 (J)

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Pjanic, Khedira, Matuidi; Cuadrado, Higuain, Mandzukic

 

Roma: Alisson; Florenzi, Manolas, Fazio, Kolarov; Nainggolan, De Rossi, Strootman; El Shaarawy, Dzeko, Perotti

 

Ref: Tagliavento