JUVENTUS SEASON 2017-2018

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

Juventus players applauded in Florence

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118215/juventus-players-applauded-florence

 

 

Mar 8, 2018

 

Football rivalries have been put aside for Davide Astori’s funeral, as Fiorentina fans applauded the Juventus players who came to pay their respects.

 

The defender tragically passed away on Sunday, leaving behind a young daughter and a partner.

 

All of Sunday’s Serie A games were postponed as a mark of respect, and Giorgio Chiellini was visibly emotional last night as he spoke about Astori following the win over Tottenham.

 

He is among the delegation from Juventus who are attending today’s funeral, along with captain Gianluigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio, Claudio Marchisio, Miralem Pjanic, Daniele Rugani, general manager Giuseppe Marotta and Coach Massimiliano Allegri.

 

Around 7,000 Viola fans are gathered outside the Basilica di Santa Croce, and the Bianconeri are their most bitter rivals.

 

Today though football rivalry has been put to one side, and the Juventus delegation was applauded and thanked as they made their way in to the Basilica.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       TOTTENHAM - JUVENTUS     ..........

 

... 

            1-2                 

 

Son Heung-Min 39'

Gonzalo Higuain 64'

Paulo Dybala 67'

              

 

 

Round of 16 - second leg

 

Wednesday, march 7th 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Wembley Stadium - London
Referee: Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

 

 

 

 

Szczesny trolls Spurs fans

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118220/szczesny-trolls-spurs-fans

 

 

Mar 8, 2018

 

Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny called Tottenham Hotspur “one of the best teams in North London” after last night’s win.

 

The Polish international didn’t play in either of the two legs, but he’s a former Arsenal player and was seen making a “chin up” gesture to the home fans after the Bianconeri’s 2-1 win.

 

Szczesny wasn’t done there though, with the former Gunner posting a cheeky message on Instagram.

 

“Great win and celebrations vs one of the best teams in North London. Forza Juve!” Szczesny wrote on Instagram, along with the hashtag “North London is red”.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allegri: ‘Avoid Barcelona’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118231/allegri-‘avoid-barcelona’

 

 

Mar 8, 2018

 

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri admits “the only team that I don’t want is Barcelona” in the Champions League quarter-finals.

 

The Bianconeri beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 at Wembley Stadium last night, securing their place in the last eight.

 

The draw will be made a week tomorrow, but there’s only one side left in the competition the Juve boss doesn’t want to face.

 

“The only team that I don’t want is Barcelona,” Allegri told Viasport’s Jan Aage Fjortoft.

 

“Because every year [it’s] Barcelona, Barcelona, Barcelona… now stop!”

 

Former Middlesbrough, Swindon Town and Sheffield United player Fjortoft also noted that Allegri’s English has improved, is he preparing a switch to the Premier League?

 

“No, because I have a contract until 2020.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 JUVENTUS - UDINESE     ..........

 

... 

               ..........             

 

 

 

              

 

 

28th Matchday

 

Sunday, march 11th 2018 - 3:00 p.m. CET 

2.00 p.m. UK time - 1.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

 

 

 

 

Mandzukic to miss Udinese?

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118233/mandzukic-miss-udinese

 

 

Mar 8, 2018

 

It’s reported Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic could miss this weekend’s Udinese game, but he could return for Atalanta.

 

The Croatian striker is suffering with a muscular injury, and missed last night’s win over Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League.

 

The Bianconeri take on Udinese on Sunday afternoon, but Sky reports that Mandzukic may not be ready for that game.

 

However, the injury is nothing too serious so he could be back for Wednesday’s game with Atalanta, a match which was initially snowed off on February 25.

 

If Juve beat Udinese this weekend, that match will give them the opportunity to go top of Serie A.

 

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       TOTTENHAM - JUVENTUS     ..........

 

... 

            1-2                 

 

Son Heung-Min 39'

Gonzalo Higuain 64'

Paulo Dybala 67'

              

 

 

Round of 16 - second leg

 

Wednesday, march 7th 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Wembley Stadium - London
Referee: Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

 

 

 

 

Pochettino: ‘Juve board pressured Spurs ref’ 

 

Ladies and gentleman, this is next Napoli's coach

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118282/juve-board-pressured-spurs-ref

 

 

Mar 9, 2018

 

Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino claims the Juventus hierarchy “put pressure” on referee Szymon Marciniak during Wednesday’s match.

 

Juve came back in their Champions League last-16 tie with Spurs, winning 2-1 at Wembley to reach the quarter-finals, but Pochettino complained of how Bianconeri supremos Andrea Agnelli and Beppe Marotta turned the second leg into “two games”.

 

“Before the game was Agnelli, after the game was Agnelli, Marotta. I saw at half-time how they put pressure on the referee,” he was quoted as saying by The Telegraph.

 

“It's about small details that count a lot in this type of game, even games that both teams can win. I believe those details can help the club to achieve what we want.

 

“It's small details. Competitions demand different things. Juve are specialists, because they have habit to win, the habit to put pressure referee.

 

“It's a massive lesson for us to care not only on the pitch, but off the pitch. When you're going to win, you need help from everyone.

 

“The owner stayed in the corridor, in the tunnel before and during the game. It's a club with a culture to try to do everything to help the team.

 

“It's a massive opportunity to learn not only on the pitch but outside. It's two games against this type of club - one on the pitch, one is outside of the pitch.

 

“I think it's a massive situation that you must learn from. If we only see the stats from the two games, Tottenham was the much better team.

 

“Then in football it's not only about a better performance, stats, shots more on targets, or have more possession.”

 

Mr. Pochettino, you are really Italian ..... LOOSER! 

 

 

 

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 JUVENTUS - UDINESE     ..........

 

... 

               ..........             

 

 

 

              

 

 

28th Matchday

 

Sunday, march 11th 2018 - 3:00 p.m. CET 

2.00 p.m. UK time - 1.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Juve keep foot on gas'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118318/allegri-juve-keep-foot-gas

 

 

Mar 10, 2018

 

Max Allegri gave an update on the Juventus line-up against Udinese and warned against “taking our foot off the gas” after Champions League success.

 

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

 

The Bianconeri are fresh from a 2-1 Champions League victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley on Wednesday evening, which put them in the quarter-finals.

 

“Stephan Lichtsteiner and Alex Sandro are suspended, but apart from Juan Cuadrado and Federico Bernardeschi, everyone else is fine,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

 

“Cuadrado is going for a specialist visit in Germany. Bernardeschi will have more tests in 20 days, at which point they’ll tell us if he needs surgery or not.

 

“I can confirm Wojciech Szczesny will start in goal. Mattia De Sciglio and Kwadwo Asamoah are the full-backs. Mario Mandzukic has recovered, but I still need to decide who to play upfront.

 

“We must focus on getting the three points in a difficult game against a very physical side, as Udinese commit the third most fouls in the league this season. That shows how aggressive they are and we are coming off some tough games.

 

“Wednesday was an extraordinary result, earned in an historic stadium like Wembley, but so far we’ve achieved nothing yet, so we have to keep our heads down and our feet on the ground. What we cannot afford is to take our foot off the gas mentally.”

 

There is also the risk that the Bianconeri can feel they are Scudetto favourites after Napoli lost 4-2 to Roma.

 

The gap at the top is now just one point and Juventus have a game in hand to be played against Udinese.

 

“Napoli are at the moment still one point ahead, so we must focus on beating Udinese and not what the other results are. We need help from the entire stadium and all our fans.

 

“Regardless of who steps on to the field, what counts is that tomorrow we have the focus, spirit and responsibility to understand the importance of this game.”

 

It was announced that next season the transfer windows will be shortened so that there will be no moves when games are scheduled.

 

“I absolutely agree and in fact hoped that the window would be closed at the end of July rather than mid-August.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 JUVENTUS - UDINESE     ..........

 

... 

                   2-0             

 

Paulo Dybala 20'

Paulo Dybala 49'

 

 

      

 

28th Matchday

 

Sunday, march 11th 2018 - 3:00 p.m. CET 

2.00 p.m. UK time - 1.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

 

 

 

 

Juventus 2 Udinese 0: Dybala double sends Allegri's men top

 

Napoli have lost top spot in Serie A to last season's champions

Juventus after Paulo Dybala's double downed Udinese.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-v-udinese/report/byw2i71j3dvgi00wchj9gtxey

 

 

Mar 11, 2018

 

Paulo Dybala scored a brace as Juventus went top of Serie A with a routine 2-0 home win against Udinese on Sunday.

With leaders Napoli in action later in the day against Inter, Massimiliano Allegri's men only needed a draw to claim top spot, even if only temporarily.

Dybala's double secured an 11th straight Serie A win as Juve seek a seventh consecutive title, with the champions now in ominous form, having kept eight successive clean sheets in the league.

 

Juve's latest victory was rarely in doubt at the Allianz Stadium after Dybala gave the Bianconeri the lead with his eighth free-kick goal for the club, a superb curling effort that gave Albano Bizzarri no chance.

Bizzarri denied Gonzalo Higuain from the penalty spot after Dybala was fouled, but the strikers combined to great effect in the 49th minute for Juve's second to wrap up the points.

The pressure is now on Napoli in a lively two-horse title race, Maurizio Sarri's side having stumbled to a 4-2 home loss against Roma last time out to open the door for Juve.

 

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

That's 8 free-kick goals by @PauDybala_JR with Juventus.

No @SerieA_TIM player has scored more since the 2015/16 season.

3:59 PM - Mar 11, 2018

Wojciech Szczesny tipped away Ali Adnan's free-kick in the third minute as Udinese started on top despite the visitors having lost their three previous Serie A matches.

At the other end Mattia De Sciglio's low cross was just too pacy for Stefano Sturaro to turn home at the back post, but Juventus took the lead in the 20th minute.

Dybala hit a double at home against Udinese last season and, after Gabriele Angella was booked for bringing down Higuain on the edge of the box, he opened the scoring.

The Argentina international converted Juve's 19th set-piece goal of the season, bending a delightful free-kick out of the reach of Bizzarri.

Angella was at fault again as Dybala proved too sharp in the penalty area, referee Piero Giacomelli pointing to the spot yet sparing the centre-back a second yellow.

 

OptaPaolo

 

✔@OptaPaolo

 

5 - Gonzalo #Higuain missed 5 of 17 penalties he taken in Serie A, less only than Domenico Berardi (6) in the top italian league since 2013/14. Inaccurate. #JuveUdinese

4:01 PM - Mar 11, 2018

 

 

Higuain stepped up but Bizzarri dived low to his right to keep out the striker's effort, Giorgio Chiellini then narrowly heading over Dybala's corner shortly before the break.

Dybala added Juve's second three minutes after the restart, Higuain somewhat making amends with superb hold-up play to lay the ball off to his compatriot for a simple finish.

Sami Khedira scored his first league hat-trick in the reverse fixture's 6-2 Juve win but the midfielder blazed over before substitute Blaise Matuidi arrived too late to turn in Higuain's low centre.

Dybala could have had a hat-trick with 12 minutes to go, but the forward was denied by Bizzarri's fine save at his near post after Douglas Costa opened Udinese up, he then hit the side-netting after a one-two with Mario Mandzukic.

Udinese coach Massimo Oddo - who played under Allegri in AC Milan's 2010-11 Serie A title triumph - had no response against his old boss, Juve maintaining their perfect 2018 league record with ease.

 

Key Opta facts:

- Juventus are unbeaten in 22 consecutive games in all competitions for the first time since March 2015.

- Udinese have lost four Serie A matches in a row for the first time since September 2015.

- Juve have scored the most goals (22) in the opening 30 minutes of play, while Udinese have conceded 17 in the same period.

- Only Sassuolo (six) have missed more penalties than Juve (three out of five) in Serie A this season.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 JUVENTUS - UDINESE     ..........

 

... 

                   2-0             

 

Paulo Dybala 20'

Paulo Dybala 49'

 

 

      

 

28th Matchday

 

Sunday, march 11th 2018 - 3:00 p.m. CET 

2.00 p.m. UK time - 1.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Juve achieved nothing yet'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118374/allegri-juve-achieved-nothing-yet

 

 

Mar 11, 2018

 

Massimiliano Allegri reassured Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain after Juventus beat Udinese, but “we’ve achieved nothing yet.”

 

They temporarily went top of the table with a 2-0 victory over Udinese, awaiting tonight’s Inter-Napoli game, thanks to a Dybala brace.

 

“We haven’t achieved anything yet, as the season ends in May,” the Coach warned Mediaset Premium.

 

“On Wednesday, we got past Tottenham to reach the next Champions League round, we beat Udinese and can now focus on Atalanta.

 

“We suffered a little at the start today, but can only compliment the players for doing so well. Dybala is improving, the two goals against Lazio and Spurs gave him a boost mentally.

 

“Gonzalo Higuain is doing well too, even if he didn’t convert the penalty, as he provided the assist for Dybala’s second goal. On Wednesday there’s another crucial game that we have to win against Atalanta.”

 

Why does Higuain continue to take penalties if he has such a poor record from the spot?

 

“So far this season, Higuain and Dybala missed two each, so hopefully they won’t miss any more. I had told Paulo to take it today, but that’s fine.”

 

Allegri was asked about reports he is studying English to prepare for a job in the Premier League.

 

“No, I’m not even studying!”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 JUVENTUS - UDINESE     ..........

 

... 

                   2-0             

 

Paulo Dybala 20'

Paulo Dybala 49'

 

 

      

 

28th Matchday

 

Sunday, march 11th 2018 - 3:00 p.m. CET 

2.00 p.m. UK time - 1.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

 

 

 

 

Dybala: ‘Juve showed experience’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118375/dybala-‘juve-showed-experience’

 

 

Mar 11, 2018

 

Juventus’ Paulo Dybala praised his side’s ‘experience and character’ after their 2-0 win over Udinese.

 

The Argentine forward scored both goals as the Old Lady moved to the top of Serie A, although Napoli will leapfrog them once more if they beat Inter this evening.

 

Speaking after the victory at Juventus Stadium, the 24-year-old hailed his side’s professionalism in getting the job done after their Champions League exertions on Wednesday.

 

“I am happy with the two goals and the performance,” Dybala told reporters.

 

“We showed personality and experience, despite the emotions of Wednesday.

 

“We relaxed. Now we can go forward on all fronts, it all depends on us.”

 

Dybala was asked whether he would be taking Juventus’ next penalty after Gonzalo Higuain’s miss from the spot today.

 

“I was joking with Higuain, but one missed penalty doesn’t change anything.”

 

Juve will discover their Champions League quarter final opponents when the draw is made on Friday.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ATALANTA       ..........

 

...

                          

 

 

 

    

 

26th Matchday

 

Wednesday, march 14th 2018 - 6:00 p.m. CET 

5.00 p.m. UK time - 4.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

 

 

 

 

Allegri: ’Scudetto race far from over’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118451/allegri-’scudetto-race-far-over’

https://www.football-italia.net/118452/allegri-‘juventus-have-won-nothing’

 

 

Mar 13, 2018

 

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri warns Napoli still “have a great chance to win the Scudetto”.

 

The Bianconeri have overtaken Maurizio Sarri’s side at the top of Serie A, and they can extend their lead to four points if they win tomorrow’s game in hand against Atalanta.

 

Traditionally when the Old Lady takes the lead they don’t drop off, but the tactician has warned his players not to let up.

 

“Let’s see tomorrow, we’ve been in the lead for only a few days so we have to be good at not dropping the bone,” Allegri cautioned in his pre-match Press conference.

 

“We have to take it one step at a time because Napoli are there, they have a great chance to win the Scudetto because there’s still a head-to-head match.

 

“We have a lot of difficult matches, so we need to think about what will happen tomorrow, we need to bring home three points.

 

“Atalanta are one of the teams that always cause us the most problems physically, as well as technically.

 

“After that we’ll see, we have a game on Saturday but in the meantime we’ll try to take some points tomorrow because Napoli are absolutely not cut adrift for the Scudetto, right now they’re only a point behind.

 

"I repeat, I've said it and I'll repeat it again, you only do the count when the farmers come in.

 

"You have to take things one step at a time because it's useless to go beyond that. Let's try to deal with the game tomorrow, win it and prepare for Saturday, then we'll have a few well-earned rest days.

 

"As for what Sarri said, I've got nothing to say because I don't comment on what other people say.

 

"What I can say and keep saying is that I think he should be really proud of what he's done with Napoli in recent years.

 

"He's made Napoli play in a really beautiful way, with really spectacular moments. They've been top of the League and now they have the chance to fight to the end with Juventus.

 

"We know it's hard to get to the end and win, so you need to keep your head down, we can't get excited if we win tomorrow, because the League... the League is absolutely not over, the numbers speak for themselves.

 

"Napoli have 69 points [a journalist clarifies that it's 70]... 70? Right, they have 70 and so they can reach 100. So at the moment the Scudetto quota is 100. So there's still a long way to go.

 

"Napoli have the ability to win all their matches, as Sarri has rightly said, and they'll try to win them all.

 

"So it'll be very difficult for us, not least because thanks to the merit of the lads we're still in all three competitions."

 

Allegri also gave an update on the injury situation, with Mario Mandzukic in contention for a starting spot after coming off the bench against Udinese.

 

“We’ll see, as far as the injured players are concerned the ones who aren’t available are Cuadrado and Bernardeschi.

 

“We’ll see for Alex Sandro, who was a bit fatigued yesterday so I’ll evaluate him today. All the others are fine.

 

“I’ll decide who to send on to the pitch for tomorrow’s match, the only one who will definitely be back in tomorrow is Gianluigi Buffon.

 

“Then the others I’ll have to see today, not least because we have another match on Saturday. But right now we’re only thinking about tomorrow.

 

“Will Blaise Matuidi and Miralem Pjanic be back? Matuidi had three games one after the other after his return, which was earlier than expected.

 

“As for Pjanic, he’ll 99.9 per cent be back tomorrow.

 

“Every game against Atalanta is difficult, because they have a team of players who are all equal and have very precise characteristics.

 

“Tomorrow we have to show great respect to Atalanta, just as the team showed great respect for Udinese.

 

“We need to bring home the three points with a technical, tactical and above all physical match.”

 

 

Max Allegri says “the strength of Juventus is that everyone has the objective to get to the end and win” but “we’ve still won nothing yet”.

 

The Bianconeri have taken the lead in Serie A for the first time since Week 3, and they can extend that to four points if they beat Atalanta in Turin tomorrow.

 

Today the Coach spoke in his pre-match Press conference, and he was asked how his team is different from last year.

 

“It's a bit different in the characteristics, even if compared to last year we are quite similar,” Allegri replied.

 

“Matuidi has arrived and he’s a player of temperament, who runs and allows the team to apply more pressure in the final third.

 

“At the start of the season we got some results with two midfielders - maybe some people forgot that - where we got six or seven wins, then we went to Bergamo and made a mistake on a penalty in the 95th minute with two midfielders.

 

“With Lazio we played three midfielders for the first time and we lost at home. There are moments which happen throughout the season.

 

“The strength of Juventus is that everyone has the objective to get to the end and win, which becomes a common goal.

 

“Above all there’s this desire to show again that they’re the strongest and reach these objectives that aren’t easy to achieve, because it’s not a normal thing, but something - as I always say - extraordinary.

 

“Right now Juventus have still won nothing yet, but we have a [Coppa Italia] final to play and right now we’re leading the League against a Napoli I have to compliment because they’re having a great season, if not the League would be over.

 

“They could say the same thing about us, so I can only compliment them and they’ll be there to fight to the end.

 

“It will be difficult for us because we have the Quarter-Finals of the Champions League - thankfully - and we hope to get to the Semi-Finals, so we have lots of games.

 

“That means all the squad has to be available, we can’t think of always playing the same system because not all the players are the same.

 

“Sturaro is similar to Matuidi, but he’s different from Khedira. Benatia is different from Rugani and Barzagli.

 

“So depending on who goes on the pitch we can play in different ways, and my job is to try to exploit the characteristics of all the players.

 

“I can’t turn Dybala into a full-back or a box-to-box midfielder or they’d take my coaching licence away.

 

Speaking of Dybala, is it more likely he or Mario Mandzukic will play on the left tomorrow?

 

“I need to evaluate, more than Dybala who needs to play I need to evaluate between Mandzukic and Higuain.

 

“One [Higuain] because he took a knock on the free-kick from which we scored and the other who has recovered.

 

“It’s a good situation to have, because we’re playing another game in two days.

 

“The only one who, momentarily, might have to do a bit of overtime is Douglas Costa but I’ll need to see today, it could be that in the morning I decide not to play him.

 

“Mandzukic is an extraordinary, important player for us because in terms of his aerial ability, his physicality, his technical level…

 

“The Croats have a spectacular thing, they have everything they need to do any sport.

 

“They’re physical and have technical skill, something you don’t find in other countries.

 

“Mario was important for us last year, it was important this year and it will be important for the season finale.

 

“I need everyone, so sometimes it’s important for someone to rest.

 

“The defence? I’ll decide today, Benatia is doing well, Barzagli is fine, Rugani is fine, Howedes is doing well and De Sciglio and Asamoah are fine.

 

“The only one is Alex Sandro, who I’ll evaluate today. I’ll need to see about Chiellini, if he has recovered then he’ll play, otherwise I’ll let him rest. If I’m not mistaken Chiellini didn’t play in Rome.”

 

Higuain missed a penalty against Udinese, and the Coach was clear who will be taking spot kicks from now on.

 

“After the game I put a sign in huge letters: Dybala is the penalty taker,” Allegri smiled.

 

“Then if during the game the penalty taker is to be changed, I’ll decide. Or if I get told someone else wants to take it then tell me and I’ll decide. The penalty taker is Dybala.

 

“Higuain is an extraordinary player, in terms of finishing but also in the build-up phase.

 

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ATALANTA       ..........

 

...

                          

 

 

 

    

 

26th Matchday

 

Wednesday, march 14th 2018 - 6:00 p.m. CET 

5.00 p.m. UK time - 4.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

 

 

 

 

Höwedes injured again for Juve

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118473/howedes-injured-again-juve

 

 

Mar 13, 2018

 

Juventus have named their squad for tomorrow’s rescheduled Serie A match with Atalanta, but miss Benedikt Howedes.

 

It kicks off on Wednesday at 18.00 CET - 17.00 GMT and was snowed off last month.

 

Max Allegri has almost a full squad to call upon, missing the long-term absentees Juan Cuadrado and Federico Bernardeschi.

 

Howedes also misses out due to a muscular problem, but Alex Sandro is included.

 

Juventus squad for Atalanta: Buffon, De Sciglio, Chiellini, Benatia, Pjanic, Khedira, Marchisio, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Alex Sandro, Matuidi, Barzagli, Pinsoglio, Mandzukic, Asamoah, Szczesny, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Bentancur, Del Favero

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ATALANTA       ..........

 

...

                          

 

 

 

    

 

26th Matchday

 

Wednesday, march 14th 2018 - 6:00 p.m. CET 

5.00 p.m. UK time - 4.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

 

 

 

 

Caldara returns for Juve-Atalanta

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118470/caldara-returns-juve-atalanta

 

 

Mar 13, 2018

 

Atalanta named their squad for tomorrow’s rescheduled trip to Juventus, including Mattia Caldara, who returns from injury.

 

It kicks off in Turin on Wednesday at 18.00 CET - 17.00 GMT, as it was originally snowed off on February 25.

 

Caldara returns to the squad after back problems forced him to miss the last couple of games.

 

However, it remains to be seen if the centre-back will be fit enough to start. 

 

Atalanta squad for Juventus: Barrow, Berisha, Caldara, Castagne, Cornelius, Cristante, De Roon, Freuler, Gollini, Gomez, Gosens, Haas, Hateboer, Ilicic, Mancini, Masiello, Melegoni, Palomino, Petagna, Rossi, Spinazzola, Toloi

 

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     JUVENTUS - ATALANTA       .........

 

                2-0     

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 29'

Blaise Matuidi 81'

 

 

    

 

26th Matchday

 

Wednesday, march 14th 2018 - 6:00 p.m. CET 

5.00 p.m. UK time - 4.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

 

 

 

 

Juventus 2 Atalanta 0: Higuain, Matuidi

open four-point gap to Napoli

 

Juventus brushed past Atalanta courtesy of goals from Gonzalo Higuain and Blaise Matuidi.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-v-atalanta/report/btdta16ziipnxbz40epq5vwbu

 

 

Mar 14, 2018

 

Juventus eased four points clear at the top of Serie A with a straightforward 2-0 win over at Atalanta at Allianz Stadium on Wednesday.

Gonzalo Higuain and Blaise Matuidi netted either side of half-time as the Bianconeri took full advantage of their game in hand on title rivals Napoli.

Scoreless in his two previous league outings, Higuain made the breakthrough just prior to the half-hour mark with his eighth goal in 10 top-flight games against Atalanta.

 

The hosts never looked like surrendering that lead, encountering few concerns on their way to a ninth consecutive Serie A clean sheet.

Atalanta's chances of a late rally became even more remote when Gianluca Mancini was sent off for two yellow cards in as many minutes.

And Matuidi immediately made the advantage count with a second in the 81st minute, putting the seal on a 12th straight league win. 

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

Of course it's Pi-pi-ta on #PiDay2018! #JuveAtalanta

6:39 PM - Mar 14, 2018

Juve welcomed Mario Mandzukic back into the starting XI after the forward returned from a thigh problem as a late substitute in the weekend win over Udinese.

Matuidi also came in as one of six changes to that team and might have opened the scoring if not for Jose Luis Palomino, the defender throwing himself in front of a goal-bound shot after the France international had brought down Miralem Pjanic's corner.

Higuain dragged the next opening well wide, but the striker found his radar with a carbon-copy chance in the 29th minute.

Brazil forward Douglas Costa sliced through the midfield from within his own half before laying the ball right to Higuain, who fired low and hard across Etrit Berisha to open the scoring.

The Argentina international went close to a second before the break, curling a fine effort around the far post as Atalanta survived to the interval without further damage.

 

OptaPaolo

 

✔@OptaPaolo

 

8 - Gonzalo Higuain has scored eight goals in 10 Serie A games against Atalanta. Pitiless. #JuveAtalanta

6:35 PM - Mar 14, 2018

•  
  17
•  
  16 people are talking about this

 

 

Both teams had opportunities within five minutes of the restart, Paulo Dybala first drawing a save from Berisha before Mancini headed a corner wide.

Costa should have killed off the contest when he was put through by Higuain in the 64th minute, but the winger lacked his team-mate's conviction in front of goal.

Atalanta's chances of taking something from the game were all but ended by Mancini's sending off, the defender booked for a shirt pull on Higuain and a trip on Giorgio Chiellini in quick succession.

Matuidi then kept a cool head to cap off unselfish work from Dybala and Higuain to wrap up a potentially crucial victory in the context of the Scudetto race.

 

Key Opta facts:

- Juventus have won their last 12 Serie A games – their longest run in the competition since February 2016.

- Juve have not conceded goals in their last seven Serie A home games, their longest run since May 2016.

- Gonzalo Higuain has scored eight goals in 10 Serie A games against Atalanta – he has scored more only against Lazio (12).

- Juve have scored in their last 12 Serie A games, the longest current run.

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     JUVENTUS - ATALANTA       .........

 

                2-0     

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 29'

Blaise Matuidi 81'

 

 

    

 

26th Matchday

 

Wednesday, march 14th 2018 - 6:00 p.m. CET 

5.00 p.m. UK time - 4.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

 

 

 

 

Matuidi: 'Scudetto race not over'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118523/matuidi-scudetto-race-not-over

 

 

Mar 14, 2018

 

Blaise Matuidi insists “the Scudetto race is still open” after Juventus beat Atalanta to go four points clear at the top of the table.

 

The Frenchman scored the second goal after Gonzalo Higuain in a 2-0 victory, rescheduled after it was snowed off on February 25.

 

“Atalanta have always caused us problems and they did today as well,” Matuidi told Mediaset Premium.

 

“The important thing is that we did not concede a goal and we emerged in the long run. I am happy to have scored this goal in a fantastic stadium.

 

“The Scudetto race is still open, we haven’t closed it today, because Napoli are still picking up a lot of points, so we must remain concentrated.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     JUVENTUS - ATALANTA       .........

 

                2-0     

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 29'

Blaise Matuidi 81'

 

 

    

 

26th Matchday

 

Wednesday, march 14th 2018 - 6:00 p.m. CET 

5.00 p.m. UK time - 4.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Everyone ready for Juventus'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118524/allegri-everyone-ready-juventus

 

 

Mar 14, 2018

 

Max Allegri was proud that Juventus squad rotation worked so well after beating Atalanta 2-0 to go four points clear as Serie A leaders.

 

The Bianconeri broke away from second-placed Napoli with tonight’s match, which was rescheduled from February 25 due to heavy snow.

 

“We are top of the table with a four-point advantage. It’s the decisive phase of the season,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“The objective of the club was to reach the Champions League quarter-finals and be in the Scudetto race in March, so we’ve done that.

 

“We had to be wary today, as Atalanta are a team strong both technically and tactically. We finished the game with a crescendo and earned the three points.

 

“Gonzalo Higuain has grown a great deal in his confidence, but also took on more of a creative rolso he is not just a centre-forward or a hitman. 

 

“The most important thing is that on Sunday we changed five or six players and did it again today. The objective is to go all the way and we need everyone for that, which means resting and rotating to ensure everybody is ready.

 

“Douglas Costa is in a good period of form, Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala did good work today. I am glad that we end the games in better shape, as that means our fitness levels are excellent.

 

“I was pleased to see Gigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini, after all they have won, celebrate a defensive clearance or a save. This team has pleasure in defending and that’s a crucial part of the sport.”

 

Medhi Benatia got into a row with Atalanta midfielder Marten De Roon after the second goal, as his shirt was torn and he was furious even after the final whistle.

 

“There was a moment of anger, but he calmed down. As well as being a good player, he is a lovely lad, but at times when the blood boils, he becomes difficult to control. I told him to just stay quiet, because he risked a yellow card for that reaction.

 

“When you are 2-0 up and near the end, you have to use your brain.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     JUVENTUS - ATALANTA       .........

 

                2-0     

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 29'

Blaise Matuidi 81'

 

 

    

 

26th Matchday

 

Wednesday, march 14th 2018 - 6:00 p.m. CET 

5.00 p.m. UK time - 4.00 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

 

 

 

 

Pjanic: 'What more could we ask for?'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118530/pjanic-what-more-could-we-ask

 

 

Mar 14, 2018

 

Miralem Pjanic is looking forward to the closing months of the campaign and Champions League draw. “What more could we ask for?”

 

The Bianconeri beat Atalanta 2-0 in a game that was originally snowed off on February 25, going four points clear at the top of the table.

 

“We did what we had to do, win and extend our advantage over Napoli,” the midfielder told Mediaset Premium.

 

“It’s not easy to be sharp every three days, especially when facing tactically well-prepared sides like Atalanta, but we are in the Champions League quarter-finals and the Coppa Italia Final, as well as being top of the Serie A table. What more could we ask for?

 

“Having said that, the title will be decided at the end, so we must continue like this and not ease off the gas. The best defence usually wins in Serie A, but we score plenty of goals too.

 

“It’s fair to say we could be more entertaining, but the only thing that counts is winning and we are winning. When we keep a clean sheet, it is thanks to everyone’s hard work, starting from the strikers.

 

“We also have Giorgio Chiellini, who is not just an important figure in the locker room to set the example, but is also one of the best defenders in the world. I am learning so much from him.”

 

Gigi Buffon is another veteran of the squad, but hasn’t yet decided whether to hang up his gloves at the end of the season.

 

“I hope that he does stay with us, because Gigi is the most important person in the squad. It’ll be up to him and the club to agree what happens next.”

 

Juve are through to the Champions League quarter-finals and anxiously await the draw on Friday along with Pjanic’s old Roma teammates.

 

“I hope that we both get through to the semi-finals. I want to compliment Roma for their qualification, as I’m very happy for them.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CL: Juve and Roma await draw

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118532/cl-juve-and-roma-await-draw

 

 

Mar 14, 2018

 

Antonio Conte’s Chelsea were beaten 3-0 by Barcelona, so the draw for the Champions League quarter-finals is ready for Friday with Roma and Juventus.

 

There are three Italian tacticians in the final eight, as Vincenzo Montella saw Sevilla beat Manchester United at Old Trafford to qualify, while Juventus and Roma are led by Max Allegri and Eusebio Di Francesco respectively.

 

Conte was hoping to join them, but after a 1-1 first leg draw, Chelsea were swept aside 3-0 at Camp Nou this evening by a Leo Messi brace.

Messi also provided the assist for Ousmane Dembele.

 

Bayern Munich finished the job against Benfica, winning 3-1 in Istanbul to secure a resounding 8-1 aggregate victory.

 

The teams that go into Friday’s Champions League draw are not seeded and it’s an open draw, so it’s entirely possible for two clubs from the same country to face each other.

 

This is more than a possibility, because Spain have three sides left in the tournament, Italy and England two each and Germany one.

 

The quarter-final ties are on April 3-4 with the second legs on April 10-11.

 

 

Champions League quarter-finalists

 

Barcelona (Spain)

Bayern Munich (Germany)

Juventus (Italy)

Liverpool (England)

Manchester City (England)

Real Madrid (Spain)

Roma (Italy)

Sevilla (Spain)

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CL quarters: Juve-Madrid, Barca-Roma!

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118597/cl-quarters-juve-madrid-barca-roma

 

 

Mar 16, 2018

 

Juventus and Roma have both been dealt tough draws in the Champions League quarter-finals, facing Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively.

 

Juve-Madrid marks a repeat of last season's Champions League Final, although the Bianconeri  were thrashed 4-1 on that occasion.

 

Nonetheless, the Old Lady beat Los Blancos the last time they faced them in a two-legged knockout tie, which was the 2014-15 semi-finals.

 

As for Roma, they defeated Barca 3-0 back in 2002 but were demolished 6-1 in their previous trip to Camp Nou three years ago.

 

Elsewhere in the draw, Vincenzo Montella's reward for overcoming Manchester United in the last 16 sees Sevilla paired with Bayern Munich, while Liverpool and Manchester City lock horns in an all-English tie.

 

The first legs will be played on April 3 and 4, with the return games scheduled for April 10 and 11.

 

 

Champions League quarter-final draw:

 

Barcelona v Roma

Sevilla v Bayern Munich

Juventus v Real Madrid

Liverpool v Manchester City

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nedved: No repeat of Cardiff

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118599/nedved-no-repeat-cardiff

 

 

Mar 16, 2018

 

Pavel Nedved ‘doesn’t think’ Juventus will repeat last season’s 4-1 defeat to Real Madrid when they rematch in the quarter-finals next month.

 

Juve were crushed by Madrid in the 2017 Champions League Final, but Nedved believes his club have the perfect opportunity to banish their Cardiff demons.

 

“These will be two good games, we know that we’ll face the best team in the draw, the team that have won the last two Champions Leagues,” the midfielder-turned-Vice-President told Premium Sport.

 

“They’re doing well and they impressed me in Paris, but we’ll play the first leg at Juventus and we’ll give him a hard time.

 

“I don’t think the team will suffer like they did in Cardiff, now it starts all over again. It’ll be difficult, we have two players banned, but we’re also starting from scratch.

 

“Psychologically, they’re more used to just single matches than two-legged ties, and we saw that during the Final in Cardiff. We’ll have a few more chances over two legs.

 

“We’re going through a good spell: we wanted to be in the condition we’re in for this part of the season.

 

“We’re feeling good and we’re up and running on all fronts. In this sense, the fact they’re already out of their title race will ensure that they’ll channel all their energy into the Champions League, but we’re ready.

 

“Dybala and Higuain? They’re two important players, who are doing well for Juventus. Speaking of Dybala, I reiterate that it’s up to him to make history for Juventus and, if he wants, in world football: I’ve seen him in good way lately, he’s training well.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Butragueño: “Juventus have got a winning mentality and we will have to play two fantastic matches”

"The last final was against them, we know each other perfectly,

and it will be a very close tie," he added.

 

http://bit.ly/2G2fBfq

 

 

Mar 16, 2018

 

Real Madrid’s director of Institutional Relations, Emilio Butragueño, spoke about the Champions League quarter-final draw: "It’ll be difficult. Juventus comes off the back of a game against Tottenham where the English side were superior for the vast majority of the tie. Still they had the character and courage to qualify. That says a lot about them, about the competitive nature and their winning mentality. We played the final against them last year and we know each other perfectly".
 
"We trust our people and our players, who have shown once again what they are capable of against PSG. We are excited and respectful of Juventus, who are a dangerous team with talented players. We will have to be at our best, it will be a very close tie and we will have to play two fantastic matches".

 

"In theory, playing the second leg at home seems to be an advantage, but against PSG we played at the Bernabéu first and qualified. The important thing is that we get it right and we put in two big performances".
 
Champions League
"It's a special competition for us. We have a very deep bond with the Champions League that we have to use in our favor. But it’s a competition in which the opponents will punish any mistake due to their quality. You have to pay attention to every detail, it’s 180 minutes where you have to be alert to everything. Hopefully we are inspired and able to delight our fans".
 
Reaching the final
"First we have to play this tie which is going to be very hard. I remember the last draw in which many people thought that Madrid were not going to make it through, but we are here in the draw for quarters. Our goal should be to make it to the semi-finals. The final is a long way away".

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allegri: Madrid tie ‘wonderful’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118604/allegri-madrid-tie-wonderful-but

 

 

Mar 16, 2018

 

Max Allegri believes Juventus are ‘growing’ in time for their ‘wonderful’ Champions League tie with Real Madrid next month.

 

Juve have the chance to take revenge against Madrid at the quarter-final stage after losing 4-1 to the Spaniards in last season’s Champions League Final.

 

“Madrid? "These will be two wonderful football matches,” the Coach said at a Press conference for Saturday’s Serie A clash with SPAL.

 

“If we play well and we’re lucky, we’ll go through. If we don’t, we’ll go home. We must be proud of being among Europe’s last eight.

 

“We’re working to play in games like these, we beat Barcelona in the quarter-finals last season so maybe we’ll win this time out.

 

“Like I said three days ago, they’re favourites for the Champions League. If we beat them, we’ll be twice as happy.

 

“The team are growing physically and mentally.  We’re growing in the final parts of games, we’re understanding how to attack and defend better, and that’ll be important for the end of the season.

 

“We must prepare ourselves better, but we’ll talk about it after Easter.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPAL - JUVENTUS

 

  .........

   .......... 

 

 

    

 

29th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 17th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Paolo Mazza Stadium, Ferrara
Referee: Davide Massa

 

 

 

 

Juve: Four out for SPAL

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118605/juve-four-out-spal

 

 

Mar 16, 2018

 

Juventus will be without Medhi Benatia, Sami Khedira, Juan Cuadrado and Federico Bernardeschi for Saturday’s Serie A match against SPAL.

 

The match kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19:45 GMT tomorrow.

 

Benatia is suspended for the trip to Ferrara, while Khedira has been struck down with flu and both Cuadrado and Bernardeschi remain injured.

 

However, Benedikt Howedes returns after overcoming the muscle problem that forced him to miss the Bianconeri’s 2-0 win against Atalanta on Wednesday.

 

Juve squad for SPAL: Buffon, Szczesny, Del Favero, Pinsoglio; De Sciglio, Chiellini, Pjanic, Marchisio, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Alex Sandro, Matuidi, Barzagli, Mandzukic, Howedes, Asamoah, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Bentancur

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPAL - JUVENTUS

 

  .........

   .......... 

 

 

    

 

29th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 17th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Paolo Mazza Stadium, Ferrara
Referee: Davide Massa

 

 

 

 

‘Juve can’t not beat SPAL’

 

Mister Allegri, Spal's coach many years ago.

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118607/juve-cant-not-beat-spal

 

 

Mar 16, 2018

 

Max Allegri has warned Juventus that they ‘can’t not beat’ SPAL on Saturday but expects the game ‘to be much harder than people think.’

 

The match in Ferrara sees Allegri face his former club, the Juve boss having coached SPAL during the 2004-05 campaign, narrowly missing out on promotion to Serie B.

 

“In their last three games, they’ve picked up seven points and haven’t lost at home in their last 10,” he said at a Press conference.

 

“It’s a historic match for them, they’re playing for survival and history. Defence? Both Barzagli and Rugani could play.

 

“I still have to assess all the positions, but Buffon will play in goal. Bans? I know my players and I know they’re giving their all.

 

“Marchisio and Bentancur have always done well whenever they’ve played. Now we need to think about the team that must beat SPAL.

 

“After that, we’ll have some rest, which is good, before preparing for the final part of the season.

 

“Higuain? He’s fine and he’ll play. Mandzukic? He’s not in optimal condition at the moment. He’s played a lot of games and he’s always been important for the team.

 

“I have a squad of players, who are great, responsible and mature. In order to win the League, you have to win these games.

 

“There are games you can’t not win and must play with care, order and technique because otherwise it gets complicated.

 

“Tomorrow is one of those and the season isn’t over yet. We have a four-point lead, but there are still 30 to pick up.

 

“Napoli are a great team, they can pick up 100 points, so we may need 101. I have a wonderful relationship and extraordinary memories of SPAL.

 

“Ferrara has always been about great football. I could feel the sheer weight of the club when I was there.

 

“We were in Serie C1 and had a lot of fun. We lost our last two games for the playoffs, but it was a good season.

 

“The team are mature because they haven’t fallen into any traps. Tomorrow we have to pick up three points by giving the game a lot of attention and being patient.

 

“Tomorrow will be much harder than people think.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ancelotti: 'Juve and Roma can qualify'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118631/ancelotti-juve-and-roma-can-qualify

 

 

Mar 16, 2018

 

Carlo Ancelotti trusts Juventus and Roma can get past Real Madrid and Barcelona, praising Max Allegri for a “masterpiece of tactics and strategy.”

 

The draw for the Champions League quarter-finals has not been kind to Italian clubs, pitting them against two Spanish giants and favourites to lift the trophy.

 

“I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a very tough draw for our teams, as Madrid and Barcelona are favourites to win the tournament, along with Manchester City,” Ancelotti told the Corriere dello Sport.

 

“I saw the Blancos in action in Paris, where they eliminated Paris Saint-Germain. If Real are third in La Liga and 15 points adrift of Barcelona, they reached seven consecutive Champions League semi-finals, have more shots on target than any other side this season and Cristiano Ronaldo has 117 goals.

 

“Having said all that, this is a different Juventus to the one that lost 4-1 in the Final in Cardiff last year. They are stronger and above all more aware of their own capabilities. Allegri knows what he has to do. At Wembley, beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-1, he organised the perfect performance. That game was a masterpiece of tactics and strategy.

 

“It’s true, Juve have not conceded in Serie A since December and have the best defensive record in the league, but they can’t rely only on defensive solidity to eliminate the Champions of Europe. That could never be enough.

 

“Real Madrid are always going to score a goal. Juventus are very dangerous in attack too with Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala in great shape.

 

“I think this time, over the course of 180 minutes, it won’t end the same way it did in Wales. Nothing is impossible. Let’s not forget Allegri and Juventus have that desire for revenge, a formidable propellent.”

 

Roma have been even less fortunate in the draw, as their first Champions League quarter-final in a decade will be against Barcelona.

 

“Roma already achieved something exceptional by reaching the quarter-finals after winning the Group of Death ahead of Chelsea and Atletico Madrid,” continued Ancelotti.

 

“They turned all the predictions around and Eusebio Di Francesco has been excellent. I won’t forget this is his first Champions League campaign.

 

“The way to beat Barcelona is not changing yourself to suit them. It all points to Barcelona, from history to the strength in depth of the Catalan team to their excellent form this season, Leo Messi’s immense talent and the fact they’ve conceded only two goals in the tournament this year.

 

“Having said that, I know the Champions League very well and nothing can be taken for granted, even against one of the best teams in the world. At times, an unexpected incident or an injury can change the course of a game.

 

“At the right moment, Di Francesco found Edin Dzeko, Radja Nainggolan and Kostas Manolas in their best shape, while Alisson is proving himself to be an exceptional goalkeeper.

 

“I am certain of one thing: Roma will fight to the bitter end. With all due respect to Barcelona, nobody is afraid. The Stadio Olimpico crowd will push the Giallorossi on as only they know how.”

[Socrates 7971]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zidane 'preferred to avoid Juventus'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118642/zidane-preferred-avoid-juventus

 

 

Mar 17, 2018

 

Real Madrid Coach Zinedine Zidane confessed he “would’ve preferred to avoid Juventus” in the Champions League, but “we have a 50-50 chance.”

 

The two giants clashed last year in the Final, the Merengues emerging 4-1 winners in Cardiff, and will meet again in the quarter-final next month.

 

“I played with Juventus for five years, so every time I face them, it does bring up a lot of emotions,” admitted Zidane in his Press conference.

 

“I would’ve preferred to avoid Juventus for many reasons, but when we do take them on, I’ll put aside sentiment and memories, which are always in my mind, and concentrate on the game.

 

“Juve are just as strong as last season, are very competitive and I expect an extremely difficult and balanced tie over two legs.

 

“I’d say we both have a 50-50 chance of going through.”