Juventus FC Forum (Stadio Delle Alpi) [Archive] - Page 4

dreamer75

19-11-2003, 06:48 PM

go go go Di Vaio!!!

Marco Di Vaio is praying that his magical moment of form continues for the rest of the season.

"This is a great period for me and I hope that it carries on," he said. "I’m not setting myself any objectives, I just hope that my form stays at this level for the whole campaign."

The Juventus striker can’t stop scoring at the moment and netted a wonderful winner for Italy against Romania on Sunday which underlines his international quality.

"There is a lot of competition for places in the Azzurri side such as Fabrizio Miccoli, Vincenzo Montella and even Fabio Bazzani now," he added.

"I think that the Coach will select six forwards for Euro 2004 and only four seem assured of their place. That leaves me to do battle for the last two."

It is widely considered that Giovanni Trapattoni will definitely select Christian Vieri, Alex Del Piero, Pippo Inzaghi and Francesco Totti for the Portuguese event.

That leaves Di Vaio in competition with the three he mentioned earlier, plus Antonio Cassano, Bernardo Corradi and Marco Delvecchio.

Di Vaio’s goal against Romania was certainly something special but he owed it all to a fabulous assist from Totti.

"He is a world class player and Italy need him at his best," continued Di Vaio. "Everyone is aware of that fact, even me as a former Lazio player.

"There isn’t a player like him at Juventus. Francesco is unique phenomenon in the football world."

The form of the former Parma man has been so good that he could replace Del Piero in the Juve line-up this weekend.

The Bianconeri travel to Modena where boss Marcello Lippi may decide to field Marco alongside David Trezeguet.

Del Piero is still looking for his best form after missing six weeks of the season with a thigh strain.

dreamer75

19-11-2003, 06:49 PM

Parma youngsters Alberto Gilardino and Daniele Bonera are being targeted by Italian champions Juventus.

Bianconeri transfer guru Luciano Moggi has been watching the duo for some time and he wants the pair for the 2004/05 campaign.

Both players are key figures for the Italian Under-21 side and Juventus have a reputation for poaching up and coming talent.

Gilardino has really caught the eye this season with a number of crucial goals for club and country.

While Bonera (pictured) is one of Italy’s best young defenders right now and is already a full international.

Juventus are said to be offering striker Marcelo Zalayeta and winger Mauro Camoranesi in exchange.

Both players are liked by Parma boss Cesare Prandelli but the Tardini outfit are also looking for a substantial amount of cash before they release the duo.

dreamer75

19-11-2003, 06:50 PM

The Italian Football League have announced the dates and kick-off times for the next round of the Coppa Italia.

First legs:
Tuesday 2 December
Siena-Juventus (21.00 local time)
Wednesday 3 December
Bologna-Udinese (14.00)
Venezia-Parma (16.00)
Modena-Lazio (18.00)
Sampdoria-Milan (21.10)
Thursday 4 December
Chievo-Perugia (15.30)
Roma-Palermo (18.00)
Inter-Reggina (21.00)

Second legs:
Tuesday 16 December
Perugia-Chievo (15.00)
Wednesday 17 December
Parma-Venezia (14.00)
Lazio-Modena (16.00)
Palermo-Roma (17.30)
Reggina-Inter (21.00)
Thursday 18 December
Juventus-Siena (14.15)
Udinese-Bologna (17.30)
Milan-Sampdoria (20.45)

dreamer75

19-11-2003, 06:50 PM

Ciro Ferrara may be heading towards his 37th birthday, but insists he has no intention of retiring yet.

The Juventus man is happy with the squad rotation system used this year and is tipped for a starting place against Modena on Saturday.

“At my age,” he joked, “you need to preserve your energy and spend some time on the bench. I have a long way to go before giving this sport up.”

The veteran has won the Scudetto with both Napoli and Juve, so he is now happy to contribute to the team.

“I don’t know whether or not I will have a place in the starting eleven, but nobody here is assured of a place and nobody minds. We all happily accept Marcello Lippi’s decisions.”

The squad rotation could also see on form hitman Marco Di Vaio dropped to the bench despite his stunning goal against Romania.

“He is doing very well and it must be difficult for Lippi to rest someone on such a roll,” conceded Ferrara.

“As with many others, Di Vaio needed a year to become accustomed to the pressures of a big club and is only now showing his true quality.”

Pavel Nedved also had a difficult early period with the Bianconeri before becoming a hot favourite for the Balon d’Or.

“I am torn between my friendship for Paolo Maldini and the undoubted quality of Nedved,” noted the veteran defender. “But there are also other candidates and I would not rule out Andriy Shevchenko.”

dreamer75

19-11-2003, 06:54 PM

wat the....??? Camoranesi??!!

November 19, 2003

Juventus GM Luciano Moggi has made a sensational swap offer to Parma for youngsters Daniele Bonera and Alberto Gilardino.

Fullback Bonera and attacking midfielder Gilardino, both regulars with Italy U21, are prime Juve targets for next season.

Moggi is believed to have made a tentative four-player swap proposal, which would see Parma release both youngsters in exchange for Mauro Camoranesi and striker Marcelo Zalayeta.

As much as he is reluctant to lose Bonera and Gilardino, Parma coach Cesare Prandelli is said to be open to the deal as he rates Camoranesi and Zalayeta very highly.

dreamer75

19-11-2003, 06:55 PM

wat a waste...but we can't challenge Roman financially..

November 19, 2003

Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu has revealed how close he came to joining Juventus in the summer.

Juve GM Luciano Moggi moved for the Romania international as soon as he knew Parma were ready to sell the attacker.

"Moggi tried hard to sign me, but fortunately things have worked well for me at Chelsea," Mutu told Tuttosport.

"You'd have to say, Juve had their reasons for not pushing to sign me in the end. I think it was very difficult for them.

"No-one is in a position to compete with Roman Abramovich. The only player I think would be untouchable is perhaps Nedved."

dreamer75

20-11-2003, 01:57 PM

Pavel Nedved has admitted that he may not retire once his current contract with Juventus expires.

The Czech Republic star was adamant that he would hang up his boots in 2006 but that stance could now change.

"If I feel strong enough to continue playing in 2006 then I will go on," he stated. "But I can’t make a decision on that right now."

That news is thought to have delighted the Juventus hierarchy who want to keep hold of the 31-year-old.

The former Lazio man has been so inspirational since his arrival in Turin that reports suggest they want to offer him a two-year extension.

Nedved, a front runner for this year’s Golden Ball, is also believed to be a summer transfer target for Chelsea.

The Stamford Bridge outfit are understood to have already had an earlier bid for the player rejected by the Bianconeri.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov19g.html

dreamer75

20-11-2003, 01:59 PM

Serie A Week 10 - 22/10/03 (18.00)
Modena-Juventus

Stadio Braglia

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The leaders have the opportunity to break away from the chasing pack but face a tough task at on-form Modena.

The Bianconeri are unbeaten so far this season and have notched up five wins from their last six games. Alessandro Del Piero is still looking for form following two months on the sidelines with a torn calf muscle, but should nonetheless start.

Marco Di Vaio and David Trezeguet were both on target during their international friendlies as the battle for places hots up. Marcello Lippi’s side is already qualified for the knockout stages of the Champions’ League, so the squad rotation system will continue.

Modena have surprised most pundits with their start to the campaign and currently hold eighth place, level on points with Chievo. Alberto Malesani has given the Canarini a solid style that has brought three home wins and a single defeat here, at the hands of Udinese in Week 2.

Since that 1-0 result, no team has been able to put a goal past Marco Ballotta at the Stadio Braglia. All eyes will be on Diomansy Kamara, the Senegalese forward who is hotly tipped for a January move to Juventus, while Nicola Amoruso comes face to face with his former club.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Modena (probable): Ballotta; Pivotto, Cevoli, Ungari; Campedelli, Marasco, Milanetto, Balestri; Allegretti, Kamara; Amoruso

Juventus (probable): Buffon; Birindelli, Ferrara, Iuliano, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Tacchinardi, Maresca, Nedved, Del Piero; Di Vaio

Ref: To folllow

dreamer75

20-11-2003, 02:06 PM

November 20, 2003

Juventus and Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Seville striker Daniel Alves.

The Brazil U20 international is expected to play in the World Championships in the UAE this month and both clubs will monitor his form.

Juve chief Luciano Moggi has been receiving rave reports on Daniel since he moved to Seville this year.

But Real are also keeping tabs on the youngster, who has surprised many in Spain with the way he adjusted so quickly to European football.

demouse

20-11-2003, 09:12 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75
wat the....??? Camoranesi??!!

who can replace camoranesi if he left :confused:

dreamer75

21-11-2003, 12:39 AM

Originally posted by demouse

who can replace camoranesi if he left :confused:

exactly what i was thinking too...cannot sell him lah Lippi!!

dreamer75

21-11-2003, 12:49 AM

MODENA-JUVENTUS

http://images.soccerage.com/60296.gif http://images.soccerage.com/60293.gif

Stadio Alberto Braglia. Saturday November 22, 2003. 18:00 CET

After the international break, life gets back to Serie A once again this weekend as well as leagues across Europe. In Italy, Juve opens up Round 10 with a visit to Modena on a Saturday evening, looking to extend their remarkable run.

Modena might seem to be the sort of team that keeps lingering in the relegation zone, but they continue to impress this season and have gathered enough points to see them share a comfortable seventh position with Chievo, which could mean European Football for the Canarini next season.

Modena’s last match at the Stadio Braglia saw them defeat a desperate Perugia side 1-0, with veteran GK Ballota keeping his umpteenth clean sheet. In fact, Modena could be proud of a better defensive record than the Italian champions (Modena 8 to Juve’s 9).

On the other hand, the Bianconeri are on top of the table – unbeaten as of yet this season. They have dropped just 4 points from a possible 27 and are two points ahead pf their nearest rivals – Roma and Milan.

A fortnight ago, Juve were ruthless as they brushed aside Udinese (4-1) inside 15 minutes. Marco Di Vaio scored a double, with Miccoli and Trezeguet netting the others.

Tactical Setup:

Modena applies Alberto Malesani’s trademark 3-4-3 system.

The backline trio consists of Pirotto, Ceveli, and Ungari. The latter two have each nodded a goal during the surprise 3-0 win in Empoli.

The midfield is composed of Camedeli, Marasco, Milanetto, and Balerdi. Campedelli (no, not Chievo’s owner) takes control of the right wing whereas Bareldi is in the left. Marasco has enough experience to hold the midfield together. Milanetto is a different story, he is a talented playmaker who was definitely the best surprise of last season and continues to deliver this season. Week after week, he keeps on providing the Canarini with plenty of class and imagination which even made some pundits nominate him for a place in the Azzurri set-up early on the season.

The offensive trio consists of midfielder-cum-forward Allegretti, the ‘next Henry’ Kamara, and ex-Juventini Amoruso.

For Juve, Lippi is expected to rest some International players and continue with his squad rotation system – a double-edged sword. So, expect a makeshift starting eleven on Saturday evening. A similar selection was made by Lippi against Ancona which saw us win 3-0.

Il capitano will embark in a sort of redemption mission after his appaling (to say the least) comeback against Udinese. But the one week rest should serve him well.

Endnote:

A win in Modena is not only important to solidify our place in the table, but to also continue our positive run and keep the ‘feel good’ factor in the squad ahead of some crucial clashes. Lippi’s aim is to keep our upbeat form alive and stretch our successful roll up to the Christmas break.

But before that we have to negotiate some testing matches which include a home match against Inter in the Derby d’Italia, sandwiched between trips to Istanbul and another one to the Eternal City to face the Biancocelesti in none other than the daunting Olympico.

It would be silly to look at this match as a forgone conclusion and take the points for granted, because they may not be achieved that easily. Modena will have a go and will try to get something from this match. For our players and fans it is going to be just another day in Serie A. But for Modena it going to be a historic event.

Afterall, they are welcoming ‘La Vecchia Signora’.

dreamer75

21-11-2003, 04:39 PM

Juventusâ€™ Championsâ€™ League tie at Galatasaray has been postponed by a week after todayâ€™s bomb attacks in Turkey.

The Bianconeri were set to face Gala at the Ataturk Olimpiyat stadium next Tuesday but will now play the game on December 2 instead.

UEFA decided to take the step after the terrorist attacks in Istanbul this morning which saw numerous fatalities.

The organisation said they took the decision after reviewing the security situation with the relevant authorities.

"We have decided to postpone the most imminent matches coming up in UEFA competitions in Turkey next week, given the seriousness of the todayâ€™s incidents," said Jacob Erel, UEFA's director of competition operations.

"Over the next few days, we will be closely monitoring the overall security situation in that country.

"We will remain in constant contact with the clubs and national associations concerned regarding any forthcoming matches scheduled in Turkey."

The UEFA Cup tie between Israel's Maccabi Haifa and Valencia, due to take place next Thursday in Izmir, has also been postponed after the attacks.

That game was scheduled to take place in Turkey as a result of security concerns regarding matches being played in Israel.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov20i.html

dreamer75

21-11-2003, 04:40 PM

David Trezeguet is confident that he will sign a contract extension with Italian giants Juventus.

The Frenchman has yet to agree terms with the club which had led to claims that he could be sold at the end of this season.

"I have no problems with my contract at all," said the forward whose current deal terminates in 2005.

"I have received a promise from Juventus and I have no doubts whatsoever that they will keep their word. This will be a great season for me and the club."

The former Monaco man is in a good patch of form at the moment for both club and country which is leaving him optimistic for the future.

"Iâ€™m feeling at my very best and this will be the year of my consecration," he added. "Juventus are on a winning road and France are back to their best again."

Meanwhile, international teammate Lilian Thuram is being linked with a move to the Premiership next summer.

The stopper is reportedly wanted by both Chelsea and Manchester United with Juventus apparently willing to sacrifice the 31-year-old.

Transfer guru Luciano Moggi is understood to already have a replacement lined up for the former Parma ace.

Stuttgart defender Andreas Hinkel, 21, is being tipped to take over at the Stadio Delle Alpi.

Marseille central stopper Daniel Van Buyten, 25, is also being monitored by the Bianconeri.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov20k.html

dreamer75

21-11-2003, 04:45 PM

November 21, 2003

Espanyol have opened talks with Juventus over striker Marcelo Zalayeta.

Its reported negotiations are at an advanced stage with the Uruguayan set to join Espanyol in December on a six-month loan deal.

Zalayeta has also been linked with Parma, but an existing partnership arrangement between Juve and Espanyol is expected to see the striker move to Spain next month.

dreamer75

21-11-2003, 04:47 PM

no...dun sell him !!

November 21, 2003

Juventus are considering making Lilian Thuram available at the end of the season.

The 31 year-old is being chased by Chelsea and Manchester United and Juve could cash in with reports that Stuttgart fullback Andy Hinkel is emerging as a major target.

Juve chief Luciano Moggi is having Hinkel tracked this season ahead of a summer bid and its been suggested he will be brought to Turin as a direct replacement for the Premiership-bound Thuram.

dreamer75

22-11-2003, 10:42 PM

Marcello Lippi claims Juventus have no intention of travelling to Istanbul for their delayed match with Galatasaray among safety fears.

“It is not a question of fear,” assured the Bianconeri boss, “but rather one of logic. You cannot play a football match in a city people are running away from.”

The Turkish city has been rocked by a series of bomb attacks over the last few days and UEFA have postponed Tuesday’s planned encounter until December 2.

However, the Italian club insists it will only face Galatasaray for the Champions’ League on neutral ground.

“I think that UEFA are moving in that direction,” added Lippi, “and it could be no other way. There are people out there who have no qualms about walking into a Stadium with a bomb in their pocket.”

Meanwhile, Juve are preparing for Saturday’s Serie A trip to Modena, one of the surprise high-flyers of the season.

“Alberto Malesani’s team is very tough and already did well last year. The Coach is talented and he has some real quality at his disposal.”

One of the Canarini’s stars, Diomansy Kamara, has been heavily linked with a January switch to Turin.

As for Juve, Alessandro Del Piero will again start as he tries to recover full match fitness following two months on the sidelines, but this may mean leaving on form Marco Di Vaio and Fabrizio Miccoli on the bench.

“Whoever does not start against Modena will certainly be in the first team for the Coppa Italia,” assured Lippi.

Their Coppa clash with Siena has been brought forward to November 25 due to that rescheduled Champions’ League match with Galatasaray.

RuMmYtUb

23-11-2003, 12:02 AM

Modena 1 - 2 Juventus..
my predictions for tonite :D

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 01:55 AM

Trez scored for us...Juve leading 1-0 :)

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 01:56 AM

el Piero that took the free kick quickly and Zambrotta squared for Trezeguet to tap in :cool:

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 01:57 AM

Half Time

Modena 0 Juve 1 :D

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 02:25 AM

2nd half started..

Nedved scored for us!!!

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 02:28 AM

Nedved scored from around 30 yrds straight to the goal.

I'll bomb Uefa office if he doesn't get the golden ball! =p

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 02:29 AM

Modena 0 - 2 Juventus
Trezeguet 42’
Nedved 50’

RuMmYtUb

23-11-2003, 03:03 AM

Originally posted by dreamer75
Nedved scored from around 30 yrds straight to the goal.

I'll bomb Uefa office if he doesn't get the golden ball! =p

:laugh:
Though i wish him to get too, but got a feeling he won't get... :(
Btw i dun think u can bomb UEFA office lar, unless u're Osama...:D
w00T, my predictions almost zun..

reload2003

23-11-2003, 03:06 AM

Originally posted by dreamer75
Modena 0 - 2 Juventus
Trezeguet 42’
Nedved 50’

yEs yEs...:bounce: :bounce:

demouse

23-11-2003, 08:21 AM

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb

:laugh:
Though i wish him to get too, but got a feeling he won't get... :(
Btw i dun think u can bomb UEFA office lar, unless u're Osama...:D
w00T, my predictions almost zun..

still got 50% chance for nedved, i hope he got it....

well for dreamer pls dun be suicide bomber hor if not next time no video clips to download lao =p

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 07:44 PM

Alessandro Birindelli has become a confirmed target for Valencia, according to Italian ex-pat Amedeo Carboni.

“I know that the club’s main priority is to sign a left-back as I am their only option there at the moment,” the veteran Valencia star told Spanish newspaper ‘Marca’.

“Birindelli has played with Juventus for many years and always did well, so he has proved his worth at the very highest level.”

Birindelli’s future in Turin is in doubt as his contract is set to expire in the summer, but there are reports the Bianconeri already rejected one bid from Valencia.

Negotiations are set to begin for an extension, but another firm offer during the January transfer window could be enough to tempt him away.

Valencia, who did not qualify for the Champions’ League last season, need a replacement for 38-year-old Carboni.

Birindelli is also seeking a new solution as the rotation system is limiting his opportunities at Juventus.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov22a.html

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 07:46 PM

yes...Trez is back on form!!! :)

Serie A Week 10 - 22/10/03 (18.00)

Modena 0 - 2 Juventus
Trezeguet 42 (J), Nedved 50 (J)
Stadio Braglia

Juventus notch up their eighth win in ten games to sink Modena and pull away at the top.

Alberto Malesani's side has been one of the true surprises of the season so far and welcomed Juventus to the Stadio Braglia.

The first half was relatively balanced and much of the early pressure came from the Canarini. Fabio Vignaroli aimed a couple of promising shots from distance, while the pacey Diomansy Kamara was always ready to strike on the counter.

However, Juve slowly began to take control and veteran goalkeeper Marco Ballotta performed a tough one-handed save on Alessandro Del Piero's angled drive.

There was controversy on the half-hour mark, as Omar Milanetto was booked for diving, but replays show he may have been struck by Mauro Camoranesi's arm.

Ballotta was again called for an instinctive save on David Trezeguet, but he could do nothing when the Frenchman gave Juventus the lead just before half-time.

A free kick was taken quickly and Trezeguet met Gianluca Zambrotta's centre to tap in.

The Bianconeri made the result safe at the dawn of the second period with Pavel Nedved's stunning drive from 25 metres.

Modena tried to fight back, but Juve transfer target Kamara ballooned a good opportunity over from eight yards.

Former Turin star Nicola Amoruso led the way and brought a fine save out of Gianluigi Buffon with his fierce volley.

Malesani's men began to increase the pressure as Juve sat back, but it became a risky tactic when Amoruso fell under a challenge from Alessandro Birindelli. The referee waved play on despite Modena protests.

This left more room for Juventus to counter-attack in, but although Nedved hit the woodwork it would not have counted due to Trezeguet's offside position.

Marco Di Vaio could have made it three in stoppage time when he anticipated Ballotta, but the shot was deflected wide of an open goal.

Modena: Ballotta; Pavan, Cevoli, Ungari; Campedelli (Ponzo 64), Marasco (Allegretti 80), Milanetto, Balestri; Vignaroli (Taldo 77), Kamara; Amoruso

Juventus: Buffon; Birindelli, Montero, Legrottaglie, Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Pessotto 88), Conte, Tacchinardi, Nedved; Del Piero (Di Vaio 71), Trezeguet

Ref: Gabriele

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 07:48 PM

Juventus are running away with Serie A and their Champions’ League group, but Marcello Lippi was critical of his men.

“Our first half performance was terrible,” he said of their 2-0 win at Modena this evening.

“We basically helped out the home side by playing into their hands and were not organised enough. When David Trezeguet scored we didn’t deserve to be 1-0 up.”

There was controversy at the Stadio Braglia, as Modena maintained they were denied two penalties and criticised the opening goal.

“I never discuss referees,” noted the Coach. “In football you can have decisions go for you or against, but I don’t think the official was uncertain of his choices.”

Pavel Nedved’s goal made the points safe after the half-time break and he confirmed there was an element of luck involved.

“I didn’t even see the ball hit the back of the net,” revealed the Czech international. “It took a strange bounce off the ground and perhaps the goalkeeper saw it late.”

“We knew it would be a tough trip to Modena,” he added, “and this really is a very good team. It was a struggle and in the end we deserved the victory.”

Alberto Malesani has blamed his own players for that controversial opening goal, as a free kick was taken quickly.

“We should not have stood around arguing about the decision to begin with,” sighed the Coach. “We were distracted and lost that crucial concentration.”

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov22h.html

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 07:54 PM

After 14 matches into this season - 10 in Serie A and 4 in the Champions League - Marcello Lippi has used the services of 22 squad players in his rotation system between matches. Only 4 players are yet to don the Bianconeri shirt this season: Chimenti, Mirante, Fresi, and Olivera.

Here is the list of players (in order) with the appropriate number of minutes played* during the 14 matches as well as the average minutes played per match.

G. Buffon -- 1,260 (90)
G. Zambrotta -- 1, 124 (80)
P. Nedved -- 1, 117 (79)
S. Appiah -- 1, 022 (73)
D. Trezeguet -- 968 (69)
A. Tacchinardi -- 923 (66)
L. Thuram -- 900 (64)
P. Montero -- 808 (57)
N. Legrottaglie -- 720 (51)
M. Di Vaio -- 674 (48)
E. Davids -- 591 (42)
M. Camoranesi -- 664 (47)
M. Iuliano -- 468 (33)
C. Ferrara -- 450 (32)
I. Tudor -- 424 (30)
F. Miccoli -- 423 (30)
A. Birindelli -- 411 (29)
A. Del Piero -- 384 (27)
E. Maresca -- 225 (16)
A. Conte -- 194 (13)
G. Pessotto -- 69 (5)
M. Zalayeta -- 14 (1)
A. Chimenti -- 0 (0)
A. Mirante -- 0 (0)
S. Fresi -- 0 (0)
R. Olivera -- 0 (0)

* approximate minutes (without including injury time of 1st and 2nd halves of matches)

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 07:54 PM

What's more interesting is that:

Maresca is yet to see some Champions League action,

Di Vaio is the most player to come out of the bench, 6 matches.

Camoranesi is the most player to get substituted, 8 matches.

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 09:56 PM

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb

:laugh:
Though i wish him to get too, but got a feeling he won't get... :(
Btw i dun think u can bomb UEFA office lar, unless u're Osama...:D
w00T, my predictions almost zun..

haha....of cuz the bomb part is just a joke lah...:D

i got my predictions rite...2-0 to Juve...keke :)

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 09:56 PM

Originally posted by reload2003

yEs yEs...:bounce: :bounce:

ehh...u also Juve supporter?

nvr seen u in this thread b4? :)

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 09:58 PM

[QUOTE]Originally posted by demouse

still got 50% chance for nedved, i hope he got it....

well for dreamer pls dun be suicide bomber hor if not next time no video clips to download lao =p [/QUOTE

really hope he will get it lor..

haha...me not suicude bomber lah...:)

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 11:28 PM

Weekly schedule

23 11 2003

Monday: session training in the afternoon at 3 pm with press conference.
Tuesday: Siena-Juventus, Italy Tim Cup, at Franchi Stadium, at 6.30 pm.
Wednesday: session training in the afternoon at 3 pm;
Thursday: session training in the afternoon at 3 pm with press conference;
Friday: session training in the afternoon with press conference;
Saturday: Juventus-Inter, Delle Alpi Stadium, at 8.30 pm.
Sunday: to be decided.

http://www.juventus.it/juventus/en/cmc/news/200347/cmc_59954.html

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 11:52 PM

Through to the 2nd round of the CL, and on top of Serie A, Juve will travel to Siena in their first Coppa Italia game of the season. Due to the fact that the CL trip to Galatasary has been postponed, we'll be the only of the Italy's top runners in action, and this could prove to be an advantage, since our opponents in Round 11, Inter, have CL responsibilities in midweek.

Marcello Lippi has promised that the players who didn't start against Modena would play in this match, so we'll definitely see Enzo Maresca, and a strike duo of either Miccoli and Di Vaio or Miccoli and Zalayeta, since DV played a part in the Modena clash.

FORZA JUVE!! :)

dreamer75

23-11-2003, 11:54 PM

================Chimenti===================

Biri=======Tudor==========Iuliano=========Pessotto

Appiah=============Davids=========Maresca

====================Oliveira=================

======Zalayeta===================Miccoli========

I think that we might see Benjamin's debut on tuesday as well.

dreamer75

24-11-2003, 11:53 PM

There's an interview with Gianluigi Buffon in WorldSoccer magazine!

I want the lot
The Juventus and Italy keeper tells Keir Radnedge about his plan to sweep the board this season

Gianluigi Buffon believes Juventus, after the upset of their Champions League Final defeat, have made the changes that will guarantee "near perfection." That, in turn, could allow them to win everything they pursue this coming season.

You have made a great start already: Juventus won the Italian Supercup against Milan in NY, you were man of the match in Italy's 1-0 friendly win in Germany and were then voted UEFA's Player of the Season. Can it get any better?
Only when we win both the Champions League and the Italian League this season. I'm very proud of the UEFA award. It's not usually goalkeepers who get these prizes.

Do you resent that it's usually attackers who get the adulation?
No, great forwards deserve their high profile because they score the goals that win the big matches - like in the Germany friendly. Beating the World Cup runners-up is always an achievement, especially in front of their own fans. The flip side for the attacers is that when things go wrong they are also the first to get the blame.

Remembering Italian fans' reaction after the World Cup fiasco, don't you think you have come a long way in a year?
True, but I'm not the sort to do my dirty washing in public. The players were to blame in Korea and I always admitted that. OK, there were isues about injuries and substitution but it was dishonest to heap all the blame on Trapatonni. If a coach gets his team selection wrong then I'm the first to say so. But that was not the case in Korea.

What are your realistic targets for the season ahead?
The same as ever: to win everything again. It may sound naive but its true. It's no good starting a season thinking that you are going to lose some matches. That's not a professional attitude. Anyway, I really don't see why we shouldn't win everything. Last season we won the League and reached the CL final. Just a little more luck and we would have won both. So we can do it. It's within reach.

Have you put the CL final defeat behind you?
You can't wipe a defeat like that out of your mind. The sense of disappointment was enormous. The only positive thing is that it makes you appreciate winning much more. For example, the Italian supercup may not be the greatest trophy in the world but its something positive to start the season from a psychological point of view - even if we did it on penalties. It was also important for us to prove we can beat Milan in one-off matches.

But presumably you would still prefer to have won the penalty shoot out in Manchester last may?
I would have preferred to have won on penalties in both Manchester and NY. The most ironic thing is that in Manchester I stopped one penalty more than in NY... and we lost. But I didn't come to Juventus to lose anything but to win every competition we enter- CL, Italian League, Italian Cup and the Italian Supercup.

You have some new teammates at Juventus. Whodo you rate as the best new signing?
I don't have to choose the team. The coach does that. He does his job, I do mine. I know players like Fabrizio Miccoli from playing against him last season. All I can say is that I'm glad he is on our side now!

So would you say Juventus are a better side than ever?
Maybe there's just a little way to go yet to reach perfection- but we're working on it! I would even say that anyone who meets us in Europe or in Serie A must beware because we have two teams as good as each other.

Your favourite players?
Paolo Maldini and Michel Platini outfield players, the Cameroonian Thomas N'Kono and Dino Zoff for goalkeepers. Zoff was not just a player but a footballing monument. When you talk about Italian goalkeepers, his is the only name that matters. He won everything going- he's my inspiration .

-----------

World Soccer Oct 2003 issue.

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 12:14 AM

Di Vaio : Yet Another Star

Is it comming? The time when Di Vaio inspires Juventus to victory. The time when Di Vaio becomes the new symbol of Juventus. Di Vaio's recent form has all critics in awe. His progress has some believing he could replace David Trezeguet or Del Piero in the starting line-up of Juventus. Is this all true?

His goal against Milan in the San Siro has been hailed as the goal of the season and earned Juventus a well-deserved draw. Not only that, but he is already second top scorer in Serie A, one behind Adriy Shevchenco of AC Milan. His brace against Roma earlier this season also proved vital in absence of injured Del Piero.

Not only has Di Vaio been on scintillating form for Juventus FC, but he has also proved crucial for Giovanni Trappatoni's, Azzuri. He scored his second international goal against Romania, which proved vital as it won the match. His goal against Azerbaijan in Italy's last Euro 2004 qualifier was also a splendid debut goal and has most likely put Di Vaio in a good position to travel to Portugal next summer.

What is to come from Di Vaio this season, is the question in everyone's mind. He not only is a Sunday Serie A player now, he is finally gaining the recognition he deserves. But could the high prestige of Del Piero and Trezeguet keep him from reaching his true potential? With Lippi's new rotation system this doesn't look possible. Through Lippi's rotation system, Di Vaio has been given the oppourtunity to prove himself. He has done so successfully and is hungry for success. Is he finally becoming a true Biancorneri Star? Does he finally deserve to wear the Juventus jersey with the Italian shield?

These questions are slowly being answered through magnificent goals and prolific strikes from the ex-Parma man. He is finally beginining to live up to his potentials and standards. In conclusion, I call on Europe to be prepared to witness yet another star be born from the city of Turin.

hwmook

25-11-2003, 08:35 AM

nah sorry did someone informed him he is now three goals behind hehe.

back to the point di vaio is the most impressive striker in juve, i have seen him play a few times this season and he is really better than trezeguet and moccoli.

demouse

25-11-2003, 08:53 AM

Originally posted by dreamer75
Di Vaio : Yet Another Star

His goal against Milan in the San Siro has been hailed as the goal of the season

goal of the season? than how about Mancini's goal against lazio......... goal of serie a? :D

demouse

25-11-2003, 09:12 AM

[B]Opinion: The best and the rest (Week 10)

The best…
Andy Van der Meyde (Inter)
The fact that football should be played by intelligent men is best illustrated by the movements of Andy Van der Meyde. The Dutchman was superb in the 6-0 win over Reggina with a mixture of fine shots, decisive passing and a goal. Nobody got near him all night.

Generoso Rossi (Siena)
Rossi made some stunning saves against Udinese. The former Under-21 international goalkeeper threw himself all over the place in his bid to keep out the home side. He was finally beaten by an unstoppable Dino Fava header. He’ll be important for Siena’s survival.

Federico Agliardi (Brescia)
In only his second Serie A appearance, Agliardi has already done better than what Castelazzi and Saja combined together – which was no great achievement considering their shocking form. Agliardi made some fine and useful saves in the 1-1 draw at Ancona.

The rest…
Juarez (Bologna)
The whole of the Bologna side deserved to be reprimanded for their display in the 4-0 defeat to Roma. But when a defender like Juarez can’t even be bothered to sprint for two metres to clear a rebound - allowing Montella to score - then you have to question whether the Rossoblu are really bothered about Serie A survival.

Giovanni Ignoffo (Perugia)
The Perugia man was making a name for himself after moving from Serie C in the summer. Yet to be red carded for brawling so soon in his Serie A career has stained his performances.

Referee Marco Gabriele
We don’t often pick on referees but Gabriele’s performance in the Modena – Juventus game was a shocker. He should have ruled out Juventus’ opener but worse followed. The way he waved the yellow card in front of Milanetto’s face after the Modena player was elbowed (by Camoranesi's arm) was a disgrace.

brother, no offence. but if the referee things happened so often, u still think is coincidence?

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 11:04 AM

Originally posted by hwmook
nah sorry did someone informed him he is now three goals behind hehe.

back to the point di vaio is the most impressive striker in juve, i have seen him play a few times this season and he is really better than trezeguet and moccoli.

FYI...this article is written b4 Sunday's match...:)

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 11:05 AM

Originally posted by demouse

goal of the season? than how about Mancini's goal against lazio......... goal of serie a? :D

yah...its subjective....:D

hwmook

25-11-2003, 04:50 PM

Originally posted by demouse
[B]Opinion: The best and the rest (Week 10)

The best…
Andy Van der Meyde (Inter)
The fact that football should be played by intelligent men is best illustrated by the movements of Andy Van der Meyde. The Dutchman was superb in the 6-0 win over Reggina with a mixture of fine shots, decisive passing and a goal. Nobody got near him all night.

Generoso Rossi (Siena)
Rossi made some stunning saves against Udinese. The former Under-21 international goalkeeper threw himself all over the place in his bid to keep out the home side. He was finally beaten by an unstoppable Dino Fava header. He’ll be important for Siena’s survival.

Federico Agliardi (Brescia)
In only his second Serie A appearance, Agliardi has already done better than what Castelazzi and Saja combined together – which was no great achievement considering their shocking form. Agliardi made some fine and useful saves in the 1-1 draw at Ancona.

The rest…
Juarez (Bologna)
The whole of the Bologna side deserved to be reprimanded for their display in the 4-0 defeat to Roma. But when a defender like Juarez can’t even be bothered to sprint for two metres to clear a rebound - allowing Montella to score - then you have to question whether the Rossoblu are really bothered about Serie A survival.

Giovanni Ignoffo (Perugia)
The Perugia man was making a name for himself after moving from Serie C in the summer. Yet to be red carded for brawling so soon in his Serie A career has stained his performances.

Referee Marco Gabriele
We don’t often pick on referees but Gabriele’s performance in the Modena – Juventus game was a shocker. He should have ruled out Juventus’ opener but worse followed. The way he waved the yellow card in front of Milanetto’s face after the Modena player was elbowed (by Camoranesi's arm) was a disgrace.

brother, no offence. but if the referee things happened so often, u still think is coincidence?

its normal for juve, week in week out it happen lah. if juve really get maximum points for the next three matches then i will declare juve the rightful owner of this season title until then let just see how long they can mantain the pace.
this year winner will be between milan, juve and roma.

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 09:47 PM

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 09:51 PM

Juventus have angrily hit back at claims that their leadership of Serie A has been aided by referees.

The Bianconeri maintained top spot after taking a controversial lead against Modena in the 2-0 win on Saturday.

The Gialloblu were caught out when Alessio Tacchinardi took a quick free-kick to Gianluca Zambrotta, who then crossed for David Trezeguet to score.

However, replays clearly show that the kick was taken in the wrong place – a full seven metres away from where Pavel Nedved was fouled. But referee Marco Gabriele allowed the goal to stand.

That has led to comments from various quarters that the Bianconeri are being favoured by the men in black.

"The quality of our football speaks for itself," insisted director general Luciano Moggi. "After all, we have the best scoring record in the Division.

"The statistics say it all really. Don’t forget that we have also had four penalties given against us which is the highest of all the leaders."

He added: "I don’t want to specifically comment on what happened on Saturday but I think that Modena boss Alberto Malesani summed it up when he said that his players acted like headless chickens."

Malesani insisted after the game that at least one of his players should have stood over the ball to avoid a quick free-kick being taken.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov24b.html

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 09:53 PM

Juventus are expected to rest a host of first team players for tonight’s Coppa Italia tie against Siena.

Boss Marcello Lippi has named an 18-man squad for the fixture which also sees four youth team players included.

The tactician has left at home a number of star players such as Buffon, Zambrotta, Nedved, Del Piero, Trezeguet and Di Vaio for the tie.

The game has been brought forward by a week after Juve’s Champions’ League clash in Galatasaray was postponed until next Tuesday.

Siena certainly have selections problems as midfielder Ardito is definitely out after suffering suspected knee ligament damage against Udinese.

Star striker Enrico Chiesa is also a massive doubt after he collected a slight muscle strain in the 1-1 draw.

Juventus probable: Chimenti; Birindelli, Tudor, Fresi, Pessotto; Maresca, Conte, Davids; Olivera; Miccoli, Zalayeta

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov25b.html

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 09:56 PM

The squad:

2 Ciro FERRARA
5 Igor TUDOR
6 Salvatore FRESI
7 Gianluca PESSOTTO
8 Antonio CONTE
9 Fabrizio MICCOLI
12 Antonio CHIMENTI
14 Enzo MARESCA
15 Alessandro BIRINDELLI
18 Stephen APPIAH
22 Antonio MIRANTE
24 Ruben OLIVERA
25 Marcelo ZALAYETA
26 Edgar DAVIDS
41 Benjamin ONWUACHI
42 Giovanni BARTOLUCCI
43 Abduoulay KONKO
44 Andrea MASIELLO

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 09:57 PM

As I expected, there's no Del Piero in the squad and since Di Vaio is struggling with an injury (as slight as it may be) we'll probably see Alex against Inter, and from the start.

My line-up:

Chimenti (Mirante)
Birindelli Tudor Ferrara Pessotto
Appiah (Conte) Maresca Davids
Olivera
Zalayeta Miccoli

Appiah will most likely feature against Inter so we should rest him for the second half. Giving Benjamin his senior debut would also be nice.

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 10:24 PM

November 25, 2003

Real Madrid and Barcelona are chasing Juventus midfielder Edgar Davids.

Encouraged by reports AS Roma have been forced to cool their interest because of poor finances, both Spanish Liga giants are now preparing to speak with the Dutchman in January.

Davids is out for contract at the end of the season and is a regular visitor to Barcelona, where several of his Dutch colleagues play.

Barca vice-president Sandro Rosell discussed Davids' transfer with coach Frank Rijkaard earlier this month.

At Real Madrid, the club's technical staff see the Holland international as an ideal replacement for Claude Makelele and would love to have him team up with David Beckham in the middle of their midfield.

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 10:25 PM

November 25, 2003

Inter Milan and Juventus are amongst European clubs tracking the progress of Ajax youngster Wesley Sneijder.

The 19 year-old Holland international cannot command a regular place at Ajax, but was outstanding in his country's 6-0 win over Scotland last week.

Sneijder is contracted to Ajax until 2007, though Inter president Massimo Moratti has been urged by Andy van der Meyde to take a close look at the young midfielder leading up to the summer market.

dreamer75

25-11-2003, 10:34 PM

11/24/2003. Luca Bucci (Empoli)-Two great saves on efforts by young Rosina were vital in securing the Tuscans their first win of the season.

Martin Laursen (AC Milan)-Starts and then stars in the stadium in which he began his Serie A career in.

Fabio Cannavaro (Inter)-His 30 meter blast gave an extremely important lead to Inter, who up till then were having problems threatening Reggina. Then, the show was able to begin.

Lorenzo Stovini (Lecce)-A completely different player from the one that enormously struggled in the early part of the season.

Ze Maria (Perugia)-The Grifoni's Brazlian wing was a constant thorn in the side of the Lazio defense. Unfortunately his team-mates ruined his majestic match.

Andy van der Meyde (Inter)-Holland's Euro 2004 qualification returned a new Van der Meyde to the Serie A, hopefully the real one.

Olivier Dacourt (AS Roma)-Playing at his best levels since his arrived to Roma last winter.

Pavel Nedved (Juventus)-Can't remember the last time he played badly. A regular guest in our weekly best eleven.

Francesco Totti (AS Roma)-The yellow and red skipper opened the scoring in Bologna with his first goal in almost two months. It was a beauty that propels him back into contention for the Ballon D'Or.

Obafemi Martins (Inter)-His slalom in between the Reggina defenders and his successive winning strike is something to remember.

Andriy Shevchenko (AC Milan)-His Chievo brace clinched his 100th and 101st Serie A goals. Many more to come…

http://www.soccerage.com/en/13/r5579.html

demouse

25-11-2003, 10:45 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75
11/24/2003. Luca Bucci (Empoli)-Two great saves on efforts by young Rosina were vital in securing the Tuscans their first win of the season.

Martin Laursen (AC Milan)-Starts and then stars in the stadium in which he began his Serie A career in.

Fabio Cannavaro (Inter)-His 30 meter blast gave an extremely important lead to Inter, who up till then were having problems threatening Reggina. Then, the show was able to begin.

Lorenzo Stovini (Lecce)-A completely different player from the one that enormously struggled in the early part of the season.

Ze Maria (Perugia)-The Grifoni's Brazlian wing was a constant thorn in the side of the Lazio defense. Unfortunately his team-mates ruined his majestic match.

Andy van der Meyde (Inter)-Holland's Euro 2004 qualification returned a new Van der Meyde to the Serie A, hopefully the real one.

Olivier Dacourt (AS Roma)-Playing at his best levels since his arrived to Roma last winter.

Pavel Nedved (Juventus)-Can't remember the last time he played badly. A regular guest in our weekly best eleven.

Francesco Totti (AS Roma)-The yellow and red skipper opened the scoring in Bologna with his first goal in almost two months. It was a beauty that propels him back into contention for the Ballon D'Or.

Obafemi Martins (Inter)-His slalom in between the Reggina defenders and his successive winning strike is something to remember.

Andriy Shevchenko (AC Milan)-His Chievo brace clinched his 100th and 101st Serie A goals. Many more to come…

http://www.soccerage.com/en/13/r5579.html

oops forgot to post it here, pei sei =p

dreamer75

26-11-2003, 12:01 AM

Originally posted by demouse

oops forgot to post it here, pei sei =p

nah..its ok....i will update eventually :)

dreamer75

26-11-2003, 01:47 PM

great to see our youngster scoring on his debut... :)

More controversy is set to follow Juventus after they ran out 2-1 winners at Siena for tonight’s Coppa Italia Third Round opener.

This first leg tie was rescheduled in something of a rush, as Juve’s Champions’ League trip to Galatasaray was postponed until Dec 2 due to safety fears.

Siena were unhappy at the shot notice, but had a strong start to this match despite the absence of injured stars Enrico Chiesa and Andrea Ardito.

The home side eventually took the lead on the half-hour mark when Antonio Chimenti only parried a Nicola Ventola effort into the path of Raffaele Rubino.

There was controversy just before the break, as Roberto D’Aversa appeared to be brought down by Alessandro Birindelli, but instead of receiving a penalty the Siena man was booked for dissent.

The Bianconeri seemed very distracted and were fielding a second string side, even giving promising 19-year-old striker Benjamin Onwuachi some room in the final half-hour.

Fabrizio Miccoli went closest to drawing level for the visitors, but Fortin got a fingertip to his delicate lob.

The Siena goalkeeper practically handed Juventus the draw with a dreadful howler on Marcelo Zalayeta’s shot. It was a weak low drive from the Uruguayan that squirmed through Fortin’s arms.

The Tuscans fought back and Tore Andre Flo fired over after some good build-up play, but the away goal undoubtedly put Juventus in the driving seat for this tie.

There was further controversy soon after, as Ciro Ferrara was booked for a blatant shirt tug on Flo as he charged towards the goal. The referee did not consider him to be the last man, but the replays suggest Ferrara was fortunate to emerge unscathed.

Moments later Juventus took the lead as Benjamin Onwuachi scored on his official senior squad debut. The teenager combined with Zalayeta before placing an angled drive past Fortin.

Siena 1-2 Juventus

Scorers: Rubino 27 (S), Zalayeta 74 (J), Benjamin 82 (J)

Siena: Fortin; Cirillo (Mignani 68), Cufrè, Argilli, Bonomi; Lazetic (Guigou 55), Menegazzo, Cucciari, D'Aversa; Rubino, Ventola (Flo 61)

Juventus: Chimenti; Birindelli, Ferrara, Tudor, Pessotto; Maresca (Conte 68), Fresi (Appiah 46), Davids, Olivera (Benjamin 59); Zalayeta, Miccoli

Ref: Ayroldi

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov25k.html

dreamer75

26-11-2003, 01:58 PM

great...safety is top pirority..

UEFA have agreed to stage the Champions’ League meeting between Galatasaray and Juventus on neutral ground following safety fears.

The match was originally scheduled for this evening, but was postponed until December 2 after a series of bomb attacks in Istanbul.

Juventus directors voiced their concerns on playing at the Ali Sami Yen Stadium with new security alerts around Turkey still emerging.

“It is never easy to make a decision like this,” noted UEFA secretary general Gerhard Aigner, “but we must ensure the safety of the players and fans.”

The neutral venue has not yet been confirmed, but this is not the only change that will take place following the recent terrorist attacks.

Chelsea’s planned Champions’ League trip to face Besiktas on December 9 will be on neutral ground along with Thursday’s UEFA Cup tie Maccabi Haifa-Valencia.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov25i.html

dreamer75

26-11-2003, 03:11 PM

November 26, 2003

Juventus chief Luciano Moggi is seeking a quick agreement with Ternana for young midfielder Houssine Kharja.

Moggi is prepared to offer £3 million for the 22 year-old and wants the deal done quickly to avoid an auction in January.

Kharja has also been watched by Lazio and Manchester United scouts this season and is among a clutch of Ternana youngsters making news in Serie B.

dreamer75

26-11-2003, 10:59 PM

this is not a preview of the game...just an editorial leading up to the game:

http://www.soccerage.com/en/13/r5985.html

Editorial: The Derby Of Italy

This is the week preceding Juventus and Inter in the derby of Italy, and once again heated arguments between executives are already getting more headlines than the game itself.

Both teams arrive to this game with different state of minds because of their mixed fortunes both in domestic and European football.

Juventus saw off both Modena (Serie A) and Siena (Coppa Italia) in controversial ways, but saw them keep their season unbeaten run along with the first place in the league standings and a step closer to the Coppa Italia quarter finals. Apart from that, the bianconeri also received good news from both Uefa and the Champions League. Real Sociedad could not go further than a draw away to Olympiakos, which means that Lippi's troop will only need one point from their two remaining matches against Galatasaray and Olympiakos to be assured of the first spot in the group. Uefa yesterday also made known that the Galatasaray-Juventus match will be played at a neutral venue (Germany) instead of Turkey following the terrorist attacks.

Inter's week had started off with the thrashing of Reggina in a 6-0 home victory which put their spirits and confidence high for the rest of the Serie A and Champions League campaign. However the joy was short lived as three days later they were on the receiving ends of a trouncing, this time at the hands of Arsenal who conquered San Siro with a 5-1 score line.

Both teams need a win from this match, but for obvious different reasons. Juve need to build up on their current momentum and keep first spot in the Serie A and sending Inter, a direct rival, ten points adrift. This could remove a possible title challenger and one less team on the road towards their 28th Scudetto.

Inter therefore need to get back on their feet after their internal Champions League knockout against Arsenal; even a draw might be too little for the neroazzurri who need to cut down the difference between them and the top three teams to fight for more than just a fourth place. Winning away to Juventus, which has not happened since the mid-90s would not only help their league position and aspiration, but also be a turning point and morale booster for their season. Losing would most probably mean saying goodbye once again to the Scudetto which has been missing for 15 years now.

As mentioned earlier, heated arguments are the order of the day when Juve and Inter clash, and both Moratti and Moggi have not let us down again. The controversies and allegations that both sides throw at each other's face are something normal and which we come to expect before and especially after such matches. This week started off with Moratti questioning the regularity of Juve's first goal against Modena last Saturday, and Moggi quick to reply that the same incident had happened three years earlier during Juve-Inter when Di Biagio had done the same thing. Moratti found Moggi's words to be 'unpleasant' so we should expect in the next hours a new reply from Juve's General Director. The war of words will keep on going till the start of the match and possibly even after the match if any dubious referee decision will sway the match to one side or another.

Come next Monday we will hopefully be talking about what a nice game it was and not on how 'corrupt' the referee was, but alas the losing team will as usual throw dirt on the game to justify their loss and thus ruin what nice things the pitch might have offered. With all the accusations they throw to each other, this should be renamed from the 'Derby of Italy' to the 'Court of Italy'.

dreamer75

26-11-2003, 11:01 PM

The first Derby d'Italia of the new season is on Saturday! The Delle Alpi is the venue and first place is what's on the line for the Bianconeri. As far as I know, Marcello Lippi has the whole Juve squad to choose from, and his starters should be fresher than the Inter players who have CL duty at home to Arsenal.

dreamer75

27-11-2003, 01:45 PM

Serie A Week 11 - 29/10/03 (20.30)

Juventus-Inter

Live on British Eurosport (7.30pm UK time)
Stadio Delle Alpi

The Derby d’Italia is upon us and both teams go into this heated and often controversial encounter after a good run of League form, but how much will Inter’s 5-1 defeat to Arsenal affect them?

The two teams have met 146 times in Serie A and the Bianconeri have the upper hand with 69 wins, 37 draws and 40 defeats. Last season the home side ran out 3-0 winners in a crushing victory, but restricting this fixture just to Turin and Inter have not won here since a 2-0 result in March 1993. In the following ten trips to the Alps they have scored just once, with a Christian Vieri penalty.

Juventus seem unstoppable at the moment following eight wins in their first ten games, but there is a weakness that is not commonly seen in Marcello Lippi’s reign at the club. The defence is not as strong as in previous years, conceding nine goals already and keeping just three clean sheets against Modena, Reggina and Brescia.

Their record against the big sides is also not particularly impressive, having drawn 2-2 here with Roma and equalised with a late Marco Di Vaio stunner at Milan. These are the only two games in which the reigning Champions have dropped points, but it must be noted these are also the only fixtures against title contenders.

Alessandro Del Piero is easing his way back to full fitness and has pledged to score a goal in this fixture, but with the current scintillating form of Marco Di Vaio and David Trezeguet – netting fourteen goals between them – we could see the captain relegated to the bench for such a high-profile game. The former Parma man is on the form of his life with a goal on average every 68 minutes in Serie A this season.

The Derby d’Italia has always been a bitter affair and in recent years that ill feeling has only escalated. The infamous penalty that was not given to Ronaldo at the Delle Alpi, a deciding factor in Juve’s 1997-98 Scudetto win, remains the highlight in their ongoing feud. More fuel was added to the fire this week when Inter President Massimo Moratti mused, "I saw that another Juventus win was plagued by controversy. I would hate to see this kind of tendency continue." Director General Luciano Moggi hit back angrily and Lippi noted that "success tends to breed envy."

Things were looking up for Inter before Tuesday’s Champions’ League humiliation. The arrival of Alberto Zaccheroni finally instilled confidence and an attacking mentality to the side. The 6-0 demolition of Reggina was their third win in four games under Zac and his side has yet to concede a single goal in the League, grabbing eleven in the process.

However, the 5-1 home loss to Arsenal not only dented their confidence but also left them with some injury concerns for the trip to the Delle Alpi. Marco Materazzi seems definitely out with a muscle problem, while both Fabio Cannavaro and Christian Vieri are injury concerns.

Giovanni Pasquale may be given the nod again following yet another Francesco Coco injury – a slipped disc perhaps requiring surgery and a two- month lay-off – while Alvaro Recoba and Emre Belozoglu remain sidelined with muscular problems.

Juventus (probable): Buffon; Thuram, Legrottaglie, Montero, Zambrotta; Tacchinardi, Appiah; Camoranesi, Nedved, Del Piero; Trezeguet

Inter (probable) : Toldo; Cordoba, Adani, Cannavaro; J Zanetti, Lamouchi, C Zanetti, Pasquale; Cruz, Vieri, Van der Meyde

Ref: To folllow

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/sa0304/juv-int.html

dreamer75

27-11-2003, 01:48 PM

Barcelona are the latest club being linked with Edgar Davids once his Juventus contract expires next summer.

The Dutchman will leave the Stadio Delle Alpi at the end of this season and the Spanish giants are desperate for his signature.

Reports suggest that Nou Camp officials will meet with Davids’ agents in the next month in a bid to reach an agreement.

Davids has been requested by Barca boss Frank Rijkaard and his club look set to satisfy his desires.

The former Milan player, who has been in Italy for eight years, has also been heavily linked with Roma and Inter.

Meanwhile, Arsenal striker Thierry Henry believes he will never return to Italy after his unsuccessful spell at Juventus.

The Frenchman was awesome in the 5-1 win over Inter last night which sparked numerous questions over whether he could one day play in the peninsula again.

"I am definitely not coming back," he told Italian journalists. "I have to say that my Italian career is over forever."

Did Juve get rid of him prematurely? "I don’t know if they sold me too soon," he continued.

"I’m not the type of guy who looks back. I always look to the future, and my future is here at Arsenal.

"I love the Gunners. I enjoy playing with my teammates and I think you can see that with your own eyes."

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov26f.html

dreamer75

27-11-2003, 01:50 PM

Juventus are concerned that Inter’s 5-1 humiliation at the hands of Arsenal last night could make things tough for them on Saturday.

The two teams meet at the Stadio Delle Alpi this weekend and director general Luciano Moggi (pictured) maintains Inter’s loss could complicate matters.

"They’ve suffered a heavy blow against Arsenal which means we will face a very determined Inter side at the weekend," said the Bianconeri official.

"That 5-1 defeat could turn out to be a real problem for us. Inter will be hungry to hit back immediately.

"Although they lost, we are all aware of the strength of Alberto Zaccheroni’s side. We won’t be taking anything for granted."

Juventus were themselves in action last night when they controversially beat Siena 2-1 in the Coppa Italia.

"The real loser was referee Nicola Ayroldi," stated Tuscan President Paolo De Luca today. "Juventus have no need to be aided.

"Ayroldi didn’t award us two penalties which everybody else saw. Ciro Ferrara also brought down one of our players when he was the last man.

"I know Ciro well from his days with Napoli and I’m sure he would have sent himself off for that foul.

"Ayroldi also allowed them a goal which should have been clearly ruled out for offside."

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov26g.html

dreamer75

27-11-2003, 01:52 PM

Pavel Nedved is considered one of the hot favourites for the Balon d’Or, but has not even been nominated for FIFA’s World Player of the Year Award.

The Juventus star has hit the headlines with a fantastic personal campaign, winning the Scudetto, reaching the Champions’ League Final and taking the unfancied Czech Republic to Euro 2004.

However, the midfielder is not included in the three-man shortlist revealed by FIFA this evening.

Real Madrid duo Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo – who lost out on the trip to Old Trafford following Nedved’s decisive goal in Turin – are joined by Arsenal’s Thierry Henry.

Henry’s chances of lifting the trophy have been greatly boosted by his stunning performance in the 5-1 hammering of Inter on Tuesday night.

Zidane has already won the FIFA Award twice, in 1998 and 2000, while Ronaldo is up for his fourth victory speech following wins in ’96, ’97 and 2002.

The winner will be announced on December 15 in Switzerland and is voted for by Coaches all over the world.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov26h.html

demouse

27-11-2003, 03:01 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75
Pavel Nedved is considered one of the hot favourites for the Balon d’Or, but has not even been nominated for FIFA’s World Player of the Year Award.

The Juventus star has hit the headlines with a fantastic personal campaign, winning the Scudetto, reaching the Champions’ League Final and taking the unfancied Czech Republic to Euro 2004.

However, the midfielder is not included in the three-man shortlist revealed by FIFA this evening.

Real Madrid duo Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo – who lost out on the trip to Old Trafford following Nedved’s decisive goal in Turin – are joined by Arsenal’s Thierry Henry.

Henry’s chances of lifting the trophy have been greatly boosted by his stunning performance in the 5-1 hammering of Inter on Tuesday night.

dunno wat's their standard. wat have the 3 achieved last season to deserve the award :confused:

dreamer75

27-11-2003, 11:42 PM

Originally posted by demouse

dunno wat's their standard. wat have the 3 achieved last season to deserve the award :confused:

yah....useless award to certian extend :)

dreamer75

28-11-2003, 12:30 AM

Flashback: It’s a lovely Sunday evening in the 23rd round of the 2002-03 Serie A campaign. The Delle Alpi is the venue for the epic battle which pits Juve with joint-leaders Inter in this special edition of the ‘Derby d’Italia’.

The starting whistle is blown by referee Gianluca Paparesta and Juve immediately takes control of the match. During the 4th minute Nedved takes a free-kick which Toldo tries to punch away only for it to hit the back of his Argentine teammate Guly and bounce back into the net. 1-0. Cuper starts lighting his first cigarette of the night. Lippi is standing confidently, rubbing his red nose from the cold that has been bugging him for some time.

Moments kept passing by but there was still no sign of Inter, only Juve was there. Nedved pounces again, this time scoring a superb goal with a left-footer from outside the box that went begging inside the net. Boom. 2-0. By this time Cuper has already finished his first packet of cigarettes. The first half ends with Buffon being a mere spectator, only collecting some easy balls.

The second half gets underway and Juve continue their domination with no difficulty. The Delle Alpi is in a loud and cheerful mood. As the half was approaching to an end, Inter appeared to be accepting the defeat and the players seem to have thrown the gauntlet up. But Juve mercilessly finishes the job in the 83rd minute with Camoranesi profiting from yet another awesome play by Nedved to make it 3-0. Boys against Men?

Well, Juve never looked back and continued their march to win their 27th Scudetto, whereas Inter had to bear with this ‘Nedved nightmare’ and were left to look at what might have been, from the back seat ofcourse.

Fast forward to Saturday November 29, 2003 and it’s the 11th round of the 2003-04 Serie A campaign. The opponents are the same, meeting in the same playground. But this time around there are some new faces with Inter appointing a new coach with an entirely different style of play. Zaccheroni have adapted Inter to his favoured, more offensive, 3-4-3 system and has won 3 matches, drawn 2, and lost one match (against Arsenal) since taking the Inter hot seat. Lippi, on the other side of the fence, keeps happily reminding us of the depth of his squad, week in week out.

Of course, we all know about the bad blood between those two teams which dates back to a very very long time. But the infamous incident involving Iuliano and Ronaldo five years ago still stands out in memory. Referee Ceccarini Piero failed to spot a late penalty when Iuliano brought down Ronaldo inside the box. Juve were 1-0 ahead thanks to a Del Piero goal and went on to win this decesive match and latter the title, leaving Inter with so much rage and fury

Del Piero and co. also compounded Inter’s misery by winning ‘Inter’s’ Scudetto in the 2002 season when Inter were leading for most of the campaign only for them to fold in the final hurdle against Lazio and award the Scudetto, in a golden plate, to the Bianconeri. Materrazi was crying that day and was fuming on how Lazio allowed Juve to win the scudetto instead of Inter !! He even lashed at Juve’s Antionio Conte (captain), saying that with the championship money he should buy a new toupee!!

Another separate, slightly older, incident involves Christian Vieri singing anti-Juve slogans in a party. Whereas Toldo received a hefty ban from the Inter directors after hinting that his club could learn a thing or two from the more professional Juve during an interview taken in pre-season training. Toldo - ofcourse - famously scored a 95th minute goal in the 1-1 tie against Juve in the Giuseppe Meazza last season before 3 Inter players bull-dozered Buffon to the ground in a corner-kick melee. Foul? What foul? After that same match Di Biagio was given a two match ban when TV images spotted him kicking out at Davids – twice!!

Looking for fresh news? Well, more recent news involves a head-to-head clash between Inter supremo Massimo Moratti and Juve transfer guru Luciano Moggi. Apparently, Moratti wasn’t happy with the referee allowing a Juve goal to stand when Tacchinardi quickly played a free-kick resulting in a Trezeguet goal in the 2-0 win against Modena. Moggi smartly replied that Inter should be the last to complain as Inter’s Di Baggio scored from a similar scenario against Juve in the 2-2 draw back in 2000.

Inter will be fighting for their name and fans whereas Juve will be fighting for their top spot and the 3 points on offer. A true battle between two of the greatest Italian teams, it's certainly not going to be an ordinary match.

Look out for Part II of the preview with the tactical set-up and much more ...

dreamer75

28-11-2003, 08:55 PM

Derby Build-up:

Last week Juve succeeded in gaining the 3 points against a stiff opponent in Modena without too much sweat. But as we know in a horse race, a good horse only jumps as high as it has to, thus expect the Bianconeri to be in full throttle against Inter. It is also known that Juve rarely shifts a gear from ‘neutral’ against low opponents but come Saturday evening and they will be firing on all cylinders.

Juve’s best eleven had a week’s rest – except for Appiah – as Lippi decided to travel to Siena with his second team and returned to Turin safely with a positive 2-1 result in the Coppa Italia encounter.

The same couldn’t be said about Inter who had contrasting results in the past week. It all started well and bright for the Nerazurri boys with a 6-0 thumping of Reggina in Serie A with 6 different goalscorers including defender Cannavaro. However, 3 days later the same team was humiliated by Arsenal in a disastrous 5-1 defeat in the Champions League that left the city of Milan in a complete state of shock and awe in a black Tuesday for Italian football. Even thought arch-rivals Milan restored some parity with a 1-0 win against Ajax the following day.

http://www.sports.it/it/slideshow/images/20031124/arsenal4.jpg
D I S A S T E R !!

And as if that result (1-5) wasn’t bad enough for Inter, they are also suffering from various injuries to different crucial team members including: Materazzi, Cannavaro, and Vieri.

Tactical Set-up:

Zac-Lipped !

In the 96-97 season Zac was Udinese’s coach and was experimenting with his 3-4-3 tactic. He came face to face with Juve mid-way through the season and after the (1-4) defeat in the first leg Zac had to do something, a miracle. And his miracle did actually work as the 10-man Fruili side returned to Udine with a famous 3-0 win against Juve in their own Delle Alpi !! But of course that didn’t stop Juve from winning ‘Lo Scudetto’ that season.

Taking away the Champions League matches, Zac’s Inter are yet to concede a goal in Serie A. In 4 matches (3Wins – 1Draw), the team scored a total of 11 goals.

Lippi claims that this is the best squad he has ever managed in his career, with too many options and solutions to work with. He did well last season with limited resources, so expect more from the Tuscan coach this season. Appiah’s arrival from Brescia has dislodged Edgar Davids out of Lippi’s equation, and left the Dutchman in the cold. However, Appiah has proven this choice was correct with astounding displays throughout the season.

Buffon vs. Toldo

Two of the best Italian goalkeepers come face to face in this match. There is no secret about the competition between the two GKs when it comes to representing the Azzurri but Buffon has always edged past Toldo to claim his place between the 3 posts and last year’s Champions League award only proves Buffon’s entitlement as probably the best current GK in the world.

Thuram vs. Pasquale

The two players might not directly come face to face much as Thuram will surely help his defense to cover for the pacey Martins whereas Pasquale will cover his defense for Camoranesi. However, from time to time the two players might meet if they decide to come forward and participate in an offensive attempt. A very difficult match is expected for those two players.

Legrottaglie vs. Martins

At the start of the season Juve’s defense was leaking goals at an alarming rate in which the Legro-Montero partnership was blamed for. However, Lippi seems to have solved the problem as our defense has become watertight again. Legrottaglie is expected to man-mark Martins. Easy job? Well, other than the famous somersaults Martins is also known for his astonishing pace. However the young Nigerian still needs time to develop as his finishing is not as sharp as required, and he also needs to work more on his control with the ball. But still Martins remains a dodgy threat. The best scenario to limit Martins’ danger is to exploit the off-side trap but that in itself is a double-edged sword. Therefore, Martins simply needs to be overpowered.

Montero vs. Vieri

Like his defensive partner, Montero had to deal with some muscular problems through the season but finally seems to be fit again. He will have a challenging assignment in marking Christian Vieri. Bobo is in the center of attention for the wrong reasons due to his baffling attitude inside the pitch and refusal to celebrate goals thanks to his uneasy relationship with the fans. However, even during this hard time for the ex-Juve forward he hasn’t stopped scoring goals which shows what a mentally strong and remarkable player he is. He needs to be under watchful surveillance for the whole 90 minutes.

http://w5s.com/calciomaster/bobo.jpg
Vieri doesn't care about fans' jeers

Zambrotta vs. Zanetti

Zambrotta is one of the current key Juve players and had a telling contribution in most of the Juve goals scored this season. He comes face to face with the Nerazzurri captain in one of the most intriguing clashes inside the match, and one that may have an important contribution to the final result. Zanetti claimed that Inter will fight for the win at all costs, so expect a resilient performance from Inter’s loyal soldier.

Tacchi vs. Lamouchi

Trap has continuously given his back to Tacchinardi bar some meaningless friendlies and thus the Juve midfielder doesn’t look likely to feature in Euro2004 under Trap unless the latter recognizes his potential. Tacchi will try to stop any incoming attacks and in the same time try to distribute the ball from the defense. Lamouchi deputises for Emre and even though he had a good game against Reggina, creating many assists and killing off threats, but was disappointing in the Arsenal defeat and was substituted for Almeyda.

Appiah vs. Van Der Meyde

As stated earlier the Ghanian midfielder pushed Davids out of the team and has been a reliable choice for Lippi ever since. In fact, when he was introduced in the second half of the Siena match he immediately restored the disoriented midfield and gave Juve control of the match and cruise to victory. Van Der Meyde looks like the only ‘on-form’ player and bright spot in the Inter squad. He is also the most comfortable with Zac’s 3-4-3 system as he has been working wonders down the right-flank-forward position.

Del Piero vs. Cordoba

After recovering from an injury, the Bianconeri captain will be eager to make his mark in this huge match as he always tend to do against the Nerazzurri. Del Piero had a good game against Modena, opening up spaces for his teammates and trying to score himself but he would have to work harder against Inter. Whenever he receives the ball, Del Piero is usually immediately surrounded by 2-3 opposing players but Cordoba is expected to be the player he faces-off the most. The Colombian defender will have to be at his best to mark a sharp Del Piero.

Nedved vs. C. Zanetti

Nedved enters this match knowing that FIFA didn’t even consider him as a contender for the World Player of the Year award. But the lively Czech playmaker wouldn’t care less as he stated previously that individual awards mean nothing to him and that he would much prefer a team triumph. Words of a true champion. Let’s hope FIFA will be watching the match to eat humble pie. Cristiano Zanetti will have to cope with Nedved’s movements and limit his danger from midfield before reaching the last quarter of the Inter field and inflicting some real danger. God help the poor lad !!

Camoranesi vs. Cannavaro

Camo completes the attacking midfield trio with Del Piero and Nedved. On his day, he could become a headache to the stringent of defenses thanks to his dribbling abilities and pacey movements. If declared fit, wonder goal-hero Cannavaro will try to do some damage control from the diminutive international.

Trezeguet vs. Adani

The Nerazzurri defense will need to do a better job on Trezeguet than they did with his international teammate Henry, to avoid another disastrous defeat. Since Materazzi is injured and out of this match, that responsibility might be given to Adani instead who had a good game against Reggina last weak even though he wasn’t really tested.

Endnote

Juve remain respectful of Inter (clear from Moggi and Treze's prematch comments) even though all odds are against the Nerazzurri. Inter have failed to win against Juve in the Delle Alpi for more than a decade now and only scored a single goal ever since, a Christian Vieri penalty !! However, as all heated matches are: the outcome is always unpredectable.

dreamer75

29-11-2003, 12:07 PM

great news from us... :)

Christian Vieri is officially out of Saturday’s crucial trip to Juve’s Stadio Delle Alpi, but Alvaro Recoba returns to the squad.

The former Bianconeri hitman bruised his back during the 5-1 defeat to Arsenal midweek and doctors did not clear him to play this weekend.

This pushes Julio Ricardo Cruz in to the starting eleven as a probable partner to Obafemi Martins and Andy van der Meyde.

Alvaro Recoba also returns to the squad following a series of muscular and ankle problems, but is likely to start from the bench.

Emre Belozoglu and Fabio Cannavaro are back from minor injury worries, but Marco Materazzi is out for two months with a torn calf muscle.

Inter squad:

Gk: Toldo, Fontana

D: Cordoba, J Zanetti, Adani, Cannavaro, Gamarra, Pasquale, Brechet

M: Emre, C Zanetti, van der Meyde, Lamouchi, Luciano, Farinos, Kily Gonzalez, Almeyda

F: Cruz, Recoba, Martins

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov28h.html

dreamer75

29-11-2003, 12:09 PM

David Trezeguet fears that Inter are a side on the up despite their Champions’ League setback against Arsenal.

Juventus play host to the Nerazzurri on Saturday who have much to prove after their 5-1 humiliation against the Premiership outfit.

"Inter are a side that are improving in all areas," said the striker. "That includes their character and their tactical awareness after their change in system."

The San Siro giants are currently a massive seven points behind the Turin leaders and a defeat at the Delle Alpi would surely rule them out of Scudetto contention.

"That’s not true," responded Trezeguet. "Even if they went 10 points behind us at the weekend they will still be in the championship race."

However, if Inter are going to get something out of the game then they are going to have to do a better job on Trezeguet than they did on his international teammate Thierry Henry.

"I’m feeling great at the moment," said the player who last season had his fair share of injury problems.

"My knee is causing me no trouble at all even if I know that I must keeping working hard to make sure I don’t suffer those problems again."

The former Monaco man was inevitably asked whether there were any developments regarding his contract extension.

"The club haven’t said anything yet," he stated. "But there is no problem with that. I’m calm about the situation." His current deal expires in 2005.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov28b.html

dreamer75

29-11-2003, 12:10 PM

Bayer Leverkusen stopper Lucio has confirmed that he could be playing for Juventus next season.

The Brazilian international has been strongly associated with the Italian giants and a move to Turin could be on the horizon.

"I’m fascinated by Juventus," he told the ‘Tuttosport’ newspaper on Friday. "I feel ready to play for them and hungry for Champions’ League football."

Reports recently had suggested that the giant defender could move in January but he seems to have dismissed that possibility.

"I have my commitments to Bayer for now," he said. "I know that Chelsea are also keen but Juve have shown concrete interest. Anyhow, my future doesn’t depend just on me."

Lucio was already close to moving to Italy last summer when Roma had a £10m bid accepted by Bayer. However, Lucio rejected the switch.

"That book is now closed but I never said that I wanted to join Roma," the player wanted to underline.

"They claimed that I wanted to be paid as much as Francesco Totti but that is not the case at all.

"There is another reason why the deal fell through. They simply spoke badly of me because we couldn’t reach an agreement."

Meanwhile, Lucio could be joined in Italy by one of his former Leverkusen teammates in the form of Michael Ballack.

Reports suggest that Inter want the Bayern Munich star to run their midfield. The 27-year-old could be allowed to leave in January if the German side exit the Champions’ League.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov28e.html

dreamer75

29-11-2003, 12:14 PM

not crucial??!!

The home game against Inter on Saturday is not a must win clash for Juventus says boss Marcello Lippi.

The Italian champions need a victory to maintain their Serie A leadership but the tactician is keen to not increase the importance of the Delle Alpi clash.

"It won’t be a decisive game at all," said the former Inter boss. "We are playing a direct title rival but we’ve drawn both our games against Scudetto contenders this term.

"We only collected a point from the Milan and Roma games but we are still top of the League. That underlines my theory."

Juventus are highly fancied to collect a win tomorrow, especially after Inter’s 5-1 collapse at the San Siro on Tuesday.

"It won’t be easy," added Lippi. "Inter will come here looking for a win and we must try to limit their offensive threat.

"They are a strong side and played well against Arsenal for an hour. They only started to struggle when they went down to 10 men.

"In their last four League games they’ve collected 10 points. That’s the same as us and Roma so they deserve to be respected."

When asked on his starting XI for the Derby d’Italia, Lippi was playing his cards close to his chest.

"I’ll make substantial changes to the side that won 2-1 at Siena on Tuesday," he said. "At least eight or nine players will rotate."

It’s unclear at this stage who he will field alongside David Trezeguet in attack. Will it be Alex Del Piero or the in-form Marco Di Vaio?

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov28g.html

dreamer75

29-11-2003, 12:17 PM

Fabio Cannavaro has confessed that Inter still feel inferior to the big teams and could struggle against Juventus.

“The game against Arsenal proved we have not yet surpassed these psychological problems,” he noted following the 5-1 home defeat.

“This team is still in the recovery process and a change of management is not enough to turn a new leaf. We must be more certain of our own abilities and take on the big sides without fear.”

The Nerazzurri have struggled to beat the other Scudetto contenders in recent years, failing to beat any of their main opponents last season, and now come face to face with leaders Juventus.

“We have no alternative but to get up and lick our wounds after the Arsenal defeat. Inter must get back on its feet as soon as possible or it’ll be another hammering on the cards.”

Their history at the Delle Alpi does not bode well, as Inter have not won here since 1993 and in that period have scored just one goal from the penalty spot.

Stars Christian Vieri and Marco Materazzi have not even made the trip to Turin due to injuries picked up during the encounter with Arsenal, but Fabio Cannavaro has recovered.

“To go in to the Stadio Delle Alpi in order to aim for a win and play on level terms with Juventus would be a huge step forward for us psychologically,” concluded the Azzurri captain.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov29c.html

dreamer75

29-11-2003, 09:09 PM

11/28/2003. BACKGROUND:

Welcome to the 74th Derby of Italy to be played at the 'Stadio delle Alpi' of Turin. On one side there's the reigning Italian champions, Juventus, who are trying to consolidate their first spot in Serie A and extend their lead over a direct rival. On the other side, Inter, who are trying to cut down their 7 point deficit which separates them from the leaders, but also win on a pitch on which they have not won since the early 90s.

History is not on Inter's side, especially in the last 40 years where the neroazzurri have only won twice, 1963 and 1993 which both ended with a 0-2 score line. In this 40 year span the match ended in a draw 9 times, and Juventus won it 29 times. Last year the match ended in a commanding 3-0 victory for the bianconeri thanks to an unstoppable Nedved.

Juventus arrive to this game on top of both Serie A and the Champions League Group thanks to Lippi's rotation system which has given Juventus their best season start of the last 40 years.

Inter have had excellent league results since Zaccheroni took over, however their Champions League results have been far from impressive, last of which the 1-5 home loss against Arsenal. It is difficult to guess which Inter will face Juve, if the one that defeated heavily Reggina, or the one that lost against Arsenal. Injuries will not help either as Materazzi and Vieri are definitely out, whilst Cannavaro is doubtful.

Lippi has 'better' problems than Zaccheroni, in the sense that he has abundance problems after the recovery of Del Piero; all forwards are in form and the bianconeri are averaging more than 2 goals per match. However Inter's defence has been quite solid lately, except for the Arsenal debacle, so this might prove a good test for the Juve forward line, even though Materazzi's absence will be sorely missed by the Inter rearguard.

The war of words that was started at the beginning of the week between Moratti and Moggi has now calmed down, but it might be re-ignited if any referee decision does not go down well with the respective teams. Trefoloni, the referee who has been chosen to ref this encounter, will therefore have to be at his best to avoid any after match controversies. He has refereed Juventus 8 times, with 7 wins and a loss for the bianconeri; however it will be the first time that he will be involved in an Inter match.

TEAM NEWS:

Juventus – As mentioned before, Lippi has no real injury worries, on the contrary his only worry is who to field on the pitch. Still, the bianconeri mentor will most probably opt for a Del Piero-Trezeguet attack with the in-form Di Vaio entering in the second half.

Inter – Zaccheroni will be hoping for a late recovery by Cannavaro, however he will have to definitely be without Vieri, who has not been called-up for the match, and Materazzi who is out for two months because of a thigh muscle injury which he suffered against Arsenal. However Emre and Recoba have been called up so their chances of playing are quite high.

PROBABLE FORMATIONS:

Juventus (4-3-1-2): Buffon; Thuram, Legrottaglie, Montero, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Tacchinardi, Appiah; Nedved; Del Piero, Trezeguet

Inter (3-4-3): Toldo; Cordoba, Adani, Cannavaro; J.Zanetti, Almeyda, C. Zanetti, Pasquale; Martins, Cruz, van der Meyde

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Del Piero (Juventus): The recovered forward has yet to score since his comeback, however he has stated during the week that he will be scoring his first goal during this match.

Martins (Inter): The young Nigerian striker has been doing quite well, however he has yet to impress against the big teams; this could be an excellent chance for him to shine considering Vieri is not available.

Glenn Debattista

http://www.soccerage.com/en/13/r6787.html

RuMmYtUb

29-11-2003, 09:36 PM

Gd news : Vieri misses clash ! (http://skysports.planetfootball.com/article.asp?id=174656&cpid=21)

w00t ! :D :bounce:

dreamer75

30-11-2003, 02:54 AM

Expected lineup

http://www.televideo.rai.it/pagine/221_00.jpg

dreamer75

30-11-2003, 03:13 AM

JUVENTUS-INTER: LE FORMAZIONI UFFICIALI
Sabato, 29 Novembre 2003 19:54:30
TORINO - Le formazioni ufficiali di Juventus -Inter

Juventus : Buffon, Thuram, Montero, Legrottaglie, Birindelli,Camoranesi, Appiah, Tacchinardi, Nedved, del Piero, Trezeguet

Panchina: Chimenti, Ferrara, Tudor, Conte, Davids, Miccoli, Di Vaio
All. Marcello Lippi

Inter: Toldo , Cordoba , Gamarra , Adani , J.Zanetti , C.Zanetti , Almeyda , Pasquale ,van der Meyde , Cruz , Martins

Panchina: Fontana , Brechet , Farinos , Luciano , Emre , Kily Gonzalez , Recoba
All. Alberto Zaccheroni

Arbitro: Trefoloni di Siena

RuMmYtUb

30-11-2003, 12:24 PM

Juve humbled 1-3 :(

dreamer75

01-12-2003, 01:38 PM

So, there it is. Our first defeat of the season and it came under the hands of Inter. Zaccheroni has conquered Turin again. But this time he played with the ¡®ugly¡¯ catennacio tactic that brought too much success to Inter in the past. He played with 3 central defenders (Cordoba, Adani, and Gamara), 2 full-backs (J. Zanetti and Pasquale), and 2 ball winners (Almeyda and C. Zaneti). In total, 7 defense-oriented players. Almyeda was brutal to say the least and would do the world good if he retires as he stated previously. Anyway, Inter scored from their first attempt (free-kick) and it clicked for them as they never looked back ever since.

Admittedly, Camo and Treze should¡¯ve done better from their chances in the first half but that was that and it just wasn¡¯t meant to be. In the second half I thought we would be doing an ¡®Udinese¡¯, but even Di Vaio couldn¡¯t save us this time. We were skating on thin ice as we pushed forward in search for the equalizer only for us to leave a lot of spaces behind for Martins and Cruz (who dropped back) to exploit. And they did just that by scoring the second and third from counter-attacks and by then we were slowly going down. Congratulations to Inter. But credit should also be given to our boys for not giving up and trying to push forward even during the dying minutes. I don¡¯t want to go much into the details of the match as it¡¯s obviously a night to forget for us Juve fans.

But it¡¯s not the end of the world as there is no such thing as an Invincible team. Real were defeated on the hands of little Seville while Man Utd lost their composure against Fulham. It¡¯s what they call the rise and fall. And aren¡¯t runs there to be broken? Anyhow it¡¯s still so early in the season as we didn¡¯t even reach the midway point and we obviously have a lot of matches to look forward to in the future especially that this defeat will get the best out of Juve. Keep in mind that Roma and Milan are yet to face each other too, and when they do they would take points off each other. So, keep that chin up and remain loyal to the team even during those ¡®rare¡¯ bad days. After all other fans have suffered worse ..

Forza Juve !!

dreamer75

01-12-2003, 01:42 PM

Javier Zanetti was exceptional and all of Inter's goals were valid. Although we held most of the possession, something was just 'off' for us that night. I felt as if we lost our rhythm or something- We kept trying to get an equalizer but just failed to do so. Our passes did not meet its mark, we tend to lose the ball and Inter's defence was watertight.

Things might have changed had Camoranesi not missed an opportunity to equalize, but even football players are merely human beings, making mistakes. I was angry at first but later realized there is no use on dwelling the 'what ifs' of the match.

I have to credit Inter, they were the better team, the way we played we simply did not deserve the 3 points IMO. on a more optimistic note, I am glad that the defeat came when we were sole leaders of Serie A and early in the campaign, not during the critical moments. Like Lippi, I am "sad but not depressed". A defeat has got to come sooner or later, and I am glad it came now than critical moments of our Serie A campaign.

I also would like to note how disappointed I was with our defence. As much as I love Montero, the guy was just outpaced last night IMO. Legro is certainly a good defender but not exactly fast either.

Well, thats all. Congratulations to Inter for winning, but its not the end of the world that we lost.

dreamer75

01-12-2003, 01:49 PM

my player ratings:

Buffon - 5.5
The first and third goals were not his fault, there was nothing he could do. He also had a few good rushes out to get to the ball before Martins, and was pretty solid on a few crosses. If he had saved Cruz's freekick it would have most definately been the save of the season. However, I think he could have done better on the second goal. The shot was not too strong, and he could have held it, or at least deflected it to a corner.

Birindelli - 5.5

Did nothing in offence, could not fill Zambi's boots. He wasnt anything special in defence either, but he did deflect two dangerous shots, potential goals. Tried only one cross that I could remember, and a poor one at that. Still, no big misstakes.

Thuram - 6

He tried. He was pretty solid in defence, altho not much of the heat was on his side of the pitch. He tried to break down the right had a few crosses, ran down the flank and tried to combine passes with Camo in the first half, but couldnt make it work. He did have two or three very nice moves tho, but really dissapointed me with a horrid cross on a potentially good counterattack.

Montero - 6

IMO he wasnt all that bad. Martins gave him a bit of trouble at the start, but Montero soon got control of him. I dont put him at fault for the first goal, because IMO it wasnt a really "clear" foul, the ref wouldnt have been wrong if he let play continue. He could have done more on the second goal tho. And let's not forget he scored a goal too.

Legrottaglie - 5.5

This is really a let down. I was just thinking how well he was playing, before he went and ****ed it all up. He was excellent in the first 60 minutes, truly class. Looked very solid and reliable, like nodoby could get past him, headed the ball out very well, intercepted a few balls, a truly flawless performance. But then he let his concentration slip for a few moments and handed the ball to Martins on a golden plate. Didnt really manage to get into the game after that, and made the overall impression worse by bodychecking Martins NFL+NHL style a few minutes later.

Nedved - 5

One of Neddy's worst matches in the Juve jersey. He gave his best as always, but simply did not preduce. Lippi tried to play him on the left to make up for Zambrotta, but Neddy showed he doesnt feel in place there anymore, just like at the start of his first Juve season. He wasnt much better on the right side either, drifting in too much and leaving it to Thuram.

Camoranesi - 4

Horrid. Simply horrid. Did absoultley nothing in attack and was nothing but a liability to the team, as he lost countless balls on his solo dribbling sprees. Tried to pass the ball to Neddy waaaaaay to late on a good counter attack. Also missed a complete sitter at the start of the first half. I'm beginnig to wonder if he'll ever regain his last seasons form. Horrid. Both on the left and right side. Horrid.

Tacchinardi - 4.5

Did nothing IMO. Didnt stop Inter's attacks very succesfully, and failed to organize anything in attack. Maresca should have started instead, or Tacchi should have at least been subbed. Also lost Gamarra on a corner that could have resulted in another Inter goal. I'll give him one mark less for unsportmanlike behaviour. He was on edge the whole match, and should have got his yellow card much sooner. He seemed to have a problem with C. Zanetti, and even kicked him one time. It looked as it was aimed at the ball, but IMO it was intentional. Also did a bad tackle on C. Zanetti from the back, looked like revenge after Zanetti had fouled him a while before. Please dont make this guy captain.

Appiah - 6

One of the more solid Juve players, pretty consistent, always puts in reasonable shows. Did nothing really special, but looked waaay more solid than Tacchi. Had good passes, a few good tackles. He sends the ball into open space excellently. Good. Not great, but not bad either. Good.

Conte - 5

I almost forgot to add him. Enough said. I fail to understand why he plays and Maresca or Olivera dont.

Del Piero - 5.5

Did nothing. Tried a few fancy moves, but lost the ball. Had two good opportunities, but first his freekick and than his shot were too weak. He also slammed the ball into the wall from an excellent freekick position (21 meters, slightly to the left). Seems too lazy, and the position he started the match in (centre AM in the 4-2-3-1) doesnt suit him very well. He should have started on the left and Neddy in the middle.

Trezeguet - 5

Also did nothing. Had only one chance, a volley that want way wide of the post. Nothing else. Didnt even manage to outjump the Inter defence. At least he's trying to be more involved in the last few matches.

Di Vaio - 5

Also pretty poor. Didnt put any danger to Toldo, and he started the second half on the right wing. He failed to reproduce his form of the last few games. He did have a good chance when Treze knocked the ball down for him. He should have made a step or to more before trying to shoot. That was really his only chance that I can remember.

Miccoli - 7

Got waaaaay too little time and space in this match. He probably should have gotten the nod before Camo to start on the right wing. He was our best player from when he came in, being very active, trying three or four shots, which was more than the whole Juve team had done before. Seemed very sharpand eager to play, and IMO could have made a difference if he had played from the start. We looked much more inspired with him on the field, than without him.

dreamer75

01-12-2003, 01:53 PM

Alberto Zaccheroni insists that Inter beat Juventus through their own merits as Marcello Lippi holds up his hands and admits defeat.

¡°I am very happy with the attitude of the squad and naturally the result,¡± explained a joyful Zac following the 3-1 win in Turin.

¡°I think that Juventus did what they could this evening, but if they didn¡¯t impress that is because of our performance and our tactics.¡±

Many feared there would be a rout following the Nerazzurri¡¯s 5-1 hammering at the hands of Arsenal, but the Coach insists that was a blip.

¡°If we played one truly awful match out of six,¡± he maintained, ¡°that suggests the poor performance was the unusual one. I tried to show the players that and they understood it.¡±

In Serie A Inter are unbeaten under Zaccheroni and have conceded just one goal, now entering the top four with this win.

¡°It was important to close down Juve on the flanks and the vivacious Obafemi Martins caused them plenty of problems, especially when he had space to run at the defence.¡±

Julio Cruz was the true star of the show with two well-taken goals and became the first Inter player to score from open play here since 1993.

¡°We are a great squad,¡± assured the Argentine hitman, ¡°and if we keep playing like this then Inter can go far.¡±

¡°We knew it would be a difficult match, but thankfully we were able to get the result we needed to keep our Scudetto hopes alive.¡±

Marcello Lippi was honest in his appraisal of this shock defeat, Juve¡¯s first setback in all competitions this season.

¡°I must compliment Inter for being better than us in every area on the night,¡± confessed the Coach. ¡°They were concentrated, eager and paradoxically the many injuries made them even more determined to win.¡±

¡°The opening goal was their first real effort, then we wasted two good chances with Mauro Camoranesi and David Trezeguet, but honestly we did very little to try and win this match.¡±

¡°However, it should also be noted that this was our first defeat in all competitions since July 18.¡±

It can hardly be believed that Inter emerged with such a confident victory following the run-up to this game by both sides.

¡°Perhaps all that praise went to our heads,¡± mused Lippi, ¡°but quite simply tonight I saw an Inter team that was superior on every level.¡±

Juventus are now just two points clear at the top and could be overtaken by both Roma and Milan on Sunday.

¡°If Roma and Milan win tomorrow then it won¡¯t be a tragedy. There is a long way to go yet and we can still recover from a defeat.¡±

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/nov29j.html

dreamer75

01-12-2003, 01:56 PM

After inter match , taking into account that we have to play lazio next saturday ,lippi must play bench players ,

dreamer75

01-12-2003, 01:57 PM

Here's the squad vs Gala:

1 Gianluigi BUFFON
2 Ciro FERRARA
4 Paolo MONTERO
5 Igor TUDOR
7 Gianluca PESSOTTO
8 Antonio CONTE
9 Fabrizio MICCOLI
11 Pavel NEDVED
12 Antonio CHIMENTI
13 Mark IULIANO
14 Enzo MARESCA
15 Alessandro BIRINDELLI
16 Mauro CAMORANESI
17 David TREZEGUET
18 Stephen APPIAH
20 Marco DI VAIO
22 Antonio MIRANTE
25 Marcelo ZALAYETA
26 Edgar DAVIDS
-----------------

Once again no Zambro. Thuram, Legro, DP, Tacch being rested. I can't believe DP isn't going. Which means he'll defintely start vs Lazio He needs match fitness and this would be great for him.

Defense should be Pessotto, Montero, Iuliano, and Birindelli.

Midfield probably of Camo, Appiah, Davids, and Nedved.

dreamer75

01-12-2003, 08:30 PM

:(

Del Piero out of Gala tie Monday 1 December, 2003

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Juventus will rest a number of first team regulars in Tuesday’s rearranged Champions’ League clash against Galatasaray.

The Bianconeri will fly out to Dortmund today, where the game will be played because of safety fears in Turkey, without five of their best players.

Alex Del Piero, Gianluca Zambrotta, Lilian Thuram, Alessio Tacchinardi and Nicola Legrottaglie will all remain in Turin. Salvatore Fresi also misses out.

The Italian champions have already qualified for the next phase of the tournament and only need a point from their last two games to make sure they win their group.

However, the Old Lady will be keen to put in a decent display after they were criticised for their shock 3-1 home defeat to Inter on Saturday.

"It was just one of those days," stated Tacchinardi after his side tasted defeat for the first time this term. "It’s the first game that we have failed to perform in and these things happen.

"Inter were more motivated than us. But that doesn’t mean that we underestimated them.

"We’ve suffered similar defeats in the past, even in the years when we walked away with the championship."

Meanwhile, the Turin giants reportedly have two Lazio players on their wanted list for next summer.

Both midfielder Stefano Fiore, valued at £6.5m, and defender Massimo Oddo, at £5m, are being chased by transfer chief Luciano Moggi.

dreamer75

01-12-2003, 08:35 PM

December 1, 2003

Bayer Leverkusen are indicating that Juventus are favourites for defender Lucio.

The race for the Brazilian international is coming down to two clubs - Juve and Chelsea.

Lucio has admitted he'd love to join Juve next season, but the versatile defender is also a £10 million target for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.

"The offer from Juve is very interesting," a Bayer spokesman said yesterday. "We are already close to an agreement.

"We have a good relationship with (Juve directors) Moggi and Bettega.

"Abramovich? He's like a bull in a China shop!"

demouse

02-12-2003, 11:36 AM

Originally posted by dreamer75
December 1, 2003

Bayer Leverkusen are indicating that Juventus are favourites for defender Lucio.

The race for the Brazilian international is coming down to two clubs - Juve and Chelsea.

Lucio has admitted he'd love to join Juve next season, but the versatile defender is also a £10 million target for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.

"The offer from Juve is very interesting," a Bayer spokesman said yesterday. "We are already close to an agreement.

"We have a good relationship with (Juve directors) Moggi and Bettega.

juventus definitely need another good defender. look at the chart below :

Week 12 Pts F A
Roma 27 25 4
Milan 27 20 4
Juventus 26 26 12
Inter 22 20 6

they've conceded the goals 3 times of roma & milan and twice of inter.........

dreamer75

02-12-2003, 12:45 PM

Originally posted by demouse

juventus definitely need another good defender. look at the chart below :

Week 12 Pts F A
Roma 27 25 4
Milan 27 20 4
Juventus 26 26 12
Inter 22 20 6

they've conceded the goals 3 times of roma & milan and twice of inter.........

u r right.....buy Lucio pls..Moggi...:)

dreamer75

02-12-2003, 01:24 PM

Juventus boss Marcello Lippi is aiming to get at least a point against Galatasaray on Tuesday to ensure they win their Champions’ League group.

"We’ve already qualified but we still need a point to make sure that we win the group, therefore that is our objective for the game," said the tactician.

The two clubs will meet each other in Dortmund, Germany, after the game was switched to neutral ground because of safety fears in Turkey.

With qualification already assured, Lippi will take the opportunity to rest a host of key players with also a game against Olympiakos in Turin remaining.

"I’ve brought along all the players that I believe will be needed for this match," added the Coach.

"Buffon, Nedved and Trezeguet will start from the bench but there will be other changes from the side that lost 3-1 against Inter."

Veteran midfielder Antonio Conte is set to get his chance and he’s vowed that he and his teammates won’t be taking it easy.

"It will be a real game for us because Galatasaray still have hopes of qualification. We on the other hand want to keep hold of top spot," said the former Lecce hero.

"That will be vital for us as we want to take on a team that finishes second in the next round even if we will still play a quality side in the last 16.

"We will be very motivated to do well because we want to show people our quality by putting in an excellent performance."

Probable line-ups

Galatasaray: Mondragon; Cesar, F de Boer, Bulent, Orhan Ak; Sabri, Ovidiu Petre, Cihan, Hasan Sas; Berkant, Hakan Sukur.

Juventus: Chimenti; Ferrara, Tudor, Iuliano, Pessotto; Conte, Maresca, Davids; Miccoli, Di Vaio; Zalayeta.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec1k.html

dreamer75

02-12-2003, 11:54 PM

Istanbul giants Galatasaray and scudetto winners Juventus will meet on neutral territory in Dortmund's Westfalenstadion on Tuesday night in the delayed Champions League clash. The game - scheduled for last week's round of matches - was postponed by UEFA following terrorist attacks in the Turkish city.

While Galatasaray have no major injury problems, coach Fatih Terim is expected to make changes after a 2-2 draw against Malatyaspor in a league game on Friday.

Terim could play striker Hasan Sas in left winger Ergun Penbe's place after a disappointing performance at the weekend, and move Berkant Goktan into the forward position.

Midfielder Ayhan Akman is ineligible for two matches after a red card during a Champions League match against Greek club Olympiakos on November 4. Ovidiu Petre is expected to take his place.

Juventus will be playing without a string of first-team regulars, including striker Alessandro Del Piero.

With Juve already qualified for the knockout phase, the Italian international has been given more time to regain fitness after coming back recently from a thigh injury. He should be replaced by Fabrizio Miccoli.

Coach Marcello Lippi omitted defenders Lilian Thuram and Nicola Legrottaglie from his squad, as well as speedy winger Gianluca Zambrotta, who is yet to recover from a hamstring injury.

Probable teams:

Galatasaray: 1-Faryd Mondragon; 29-Cesar Prates, 5-Frank de Boer, 3-Bulent Korkmaz, 4-Orhan Ak; 55- Sabri Sarioglu, 24-Ovidiu Petre, 19-Cihan Haspolatli, 11-Hasan Sas; 7-Berkant Goktan, 10-Hakan Sukur

Juventus: 1-Gianluigi Buffon; 7-Gianluca Pessotto, 13-Mark Iuliano, 2-Ciro Ferrara, 15-Alessandro Birindelli; 16-Mauro Camoranesi, 8-Antonio Conte, 18-Stephen Appiah; 11-Pavel Nedved; 20-Marco Di Vaio, 9-Fabrizio Miccoli.

Referee: Kim Milton Nielsen (Denmark)

dreamer75

03-12-2003, 02:14 PM

we lost 2 matches in four days.... :(

Champions' League Phase One, Gp D - 2/12/03
Galatasaray 2 - 0 Juventus
Hakan Sukur 47, 94 (G)
Dortmund

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hakan Sukur netted twice as a second-string Juve side lost its unbeaten Champions' League record against Galatasaray.

Juventus needed just one point to be certain of topping the Group and wanted a reaction to their shock Serie A 3-1 home defeat against Inter.

Nonetheless, Marcello Lippi made wholesale changes to the squad and left Alessandro Del Piero, Lilian Thuram, Gianluca Zambrotta and Paolo Montero in Turin, while Pavel Nedved and Gianluigi Buffon started from the bench.

This match was originally scheduled to take place on November 25, but it was postponed and moved to a neutral venue following a series of terrorist attacks in Istanbul.

There was tension surrounding the tie in Dortmund, as former Milan and Fiorentina boss Fatih Terim criticised the decision to play outside Turkey and claimed Juventus director general Luciano Moggi had put pressure on UEFA.

There were further problems when the game was delayed for another fifteen minutes due to traffic outside the Stadium. There is a very strong Turkish community in Germany and 40,000 fans were in Dortmund to cheer on their side.

The Bianconeri had an excellent start and wasted two golden opportunities to score within the opening ten minutes. First Antonio Conte failed to take full advantage of Faryd Mondragon's poor clearance, then Marco Di Vaio fired straight at the goalkeeper following a pacey counter-attack move.

Galatasaray hit back and former Inter flop Hakan Sukur ballooned wide of the goal from six yards out.

The Turks were also unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when Ergun Penbe's cross was deflected out for a corner off Enzo Maresca's arm, but the referee did not spot the handling offence.

Both goalkeepers were given work to do in this first half with Antonio Chimenti punching out a long-range Berkant Goktan effort, while Mondragon performed a stunning reaction save on Di Vaio following Fabrizio Miccoli's low cross.

Miccoli was very lively indeed with this rare Champions' League start and one of his trademark free kicks rattled the crossbar with Mondragon stranded.

The former Perugia starlet then set up another great scoring opportunity for Di Vaio, only for his teammate to turn over the bar from close range.

Mondragon did well to close down Maresca after the young midfielder skipped past two challenges to enter the box.

The Colombian shot-stopper was on stunning form, parrying a Miccoli drive from distance before also blocking Di Vaio's follow-up as Juventus increased the pressure.

However, Galatasaray made tactical changes with the introduction of Hasan Sas and came out for the second half in more determined fashion.

Within 120 seconds of the restart the Turks had taken the lead as Hakan Sukur's glancing header met a Hakan Unsal cross to beat Chimenti.

Mondragon continued to impress and soon after fingertipped a fierce Maresca effort from the edge of the box and then palmed away a diving header from the ex-Piacenza midfielder.

Galatasaray wanted a penalty when Ergun fell under pressure from Igor Tudor, but replays show the defender clearly got the ball.

Moments later it should have been 2-0 as Berkant sprung the offside trap only to drill an angled drive inches wide of the far post.

Fatih Terim's men began to take control of the midfield and Sabri brought a tough save out of Chimenti with a splendid solo effort.

Stoppage time left gaps at the back and Galatasaray took full advantage. Chimenti managed to block one Hakan Sukur effort, but the Turkish international sprung the offside trap a second time to slide home the final goal.

The Istanbul based side are now just two points behind second placed Real Sociedad and face a head to head battle for that final qualifying spot on Dec 10.

Galatasaray: Mondragon; Tamas, De Boer (Bulent 84), Orhan Ak; Cesar Prates (Hasan Sas 42), Sabri, Petre, Ergun, Hakan Unsal; Berkant, Hakan Sukur (Cihan 97)

Juventus: Chimenti; Tudor, Ferrara, Iuliano (Appiah 75), Pessotto; Zalayeta, Conte (Camoranesi 85), Davids, Maresca; Miccoli, Di Vaio

Ref: Nielsen (Den

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/eurogames/gala-juve.html

dreamer75

03-12-2003, 02:16 PM

Marcello Lippi maintains two consecutive defeats will not push him to change the rotation system in place at Juventus.

¡§The desire to get back into the game prompted mistakes and we conceded a second in stoppage time,¡¨ he explained after tonight¡¦s 2-0 setback against Galatasaray.

Juve needed just one point from this rescheduled tie, played on neutral ground in Dortmund, in order to be certain of topping Group D.

However, leaving many of his top stars at home may have been a mistake as the second-string side was unable to maintain their unbeaten record in Europe.

¡§The result does not detract from the fact it was a good performance for over an hour in which we created plenty of scoring opportunities and could have netted at least one, if not more,¡¨ insisted the Coach.

The Bianconeri were unbeaten in all competitions until Saturday, but the 3-1 defeat to Inter and now this slip-up are raising eyebrows.

¡§At least we did the double of defeats,¡¨ joked Lippi. ¡§Some people claim that the rotation system is suddenly a failure because of these results, but I will continue applying it to the squad for some considerable time.¡¨

Juventus can still be certain of topping their Group by earning a point against Olympiakos at the Delle Alpi next week.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec2k.html

demouse

03-12-2003, 03:49 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75
we lost 2 matches in four days.... :(

IMO, i dun think should count on this defeat as crucial. anyway juve already top the group and they played their second string. the coming match wif lazio is more crucial.

but i always think that what juve need most is a substitute for nedved. they need another playmaker. if he don't play well or opponent close him down, u see juve play badly. why dun they consider Riquelme or Rosky?

dreamer, wat you think?

dreamer75

03-12-2003, 04:19 PM

Originally posted by demouse

IMO, i dun think should count on this defeat as crucial. anyway juve already top the group and they played their second string. the coming match wif lazio is more crucial.

but i always think that what juve need most is a substitute for nedved. they need another playmaker. if he don't play well or opponent close him down, u see juve play badly. why dun they consider Riquelme or Rosky?

dreamer, wat you think?

ya..but i tot at least can get a draw mah...

hmm...actually i think Del Piero can fit the playmaker role...hw's quite creative..

but of cuz..Riquelme or Rosky will be be a gd purchase..:D

demouse

05-12-2003, 09:17 AM

Juve eye new stoppers

Italian giants Juventus will take steps over the summer to rejuvenate their ageing defence.

The Scudetto holders currently have three of their most high profile stoppers all the wrong side of 30 and new faces will arrive.

Ciro Ferrara is now 36, Paolo Montero is 32, while Lilian Thuram is just weeks away from his 32nd birthday.

The Bianconeri already brought in Nicola Legrottaglie last summer but transfer chief Luciano Moggi has his eyes on two promising Italian defenders.

Parma stopper Daniele Bonera (pictured) is at the top of his list. The Under-21 international is a target for most of Italy’s top clubs.

The former Brescia youngster has the added ability that he can play both as a right-back and in the centre of defence.

The second player that the Delle Alpi outfit are supposedly interested in is Brescia’s Dario Dainelli. The 24-year-old has also been linked with Lazio.

Juventus are still in contention with Cheslea to sign Bayer Leverkusen stopper Lucio at the end of term.

dreamer, good news. think 1 or 2 new defenders will be joining juve soon :D

demouse

05-12-2003, 09:18 AM

Thuram attacks Juve defence

Lilian Thuram has put the Juventus defence on trial after their suspect start to the new season.

The Bianconeri built their title success of the last two campaigns on their mean rearguard but it has been surprisingly weaker this term.

"It will be very difficult to finish first again if we continue to concede all these goals," warned the Frenchman.

Juventus are just one point behind joint leaders Milan and Roma. But those two sides have conceded just four goals a piece in 11 games. Juventus’ goals against column reads 12.

However, the full-back is remaining confident despite the fact that his side have lost their last two games against Inter and Galatasaray.

"Those losses shouldn’t be used to block out all of the good work that we have done so far," continued the international.

"We face Lazio on Saturday which will be tough but it is also an ideal chance for us to get back on track.

"The Biancocelesti have some great players and are a technically gifted side. Yet we are not scared of getting a victory at the Stadio Olimpico."

Juve boss Marcello Lippi took training in the driving rain on Thursday where he tried out the team he is expected to field in the capital.

It was as follows: Buffon; Thuram, Montero, Legrottaglie, Zambrotta; Tacchinardi, Appiah; Camoranesi, Nedved, Del Piero; Trezeguet.

dreamer75

05-12-2003, 03:51 PM

Originally posted by demouse
Juve eye new stoppers

Italian giants Juventus will take steps over the summer to rejuvenate their ageing defence.

The Scudetto holders currently have three of their most high profile stoppers all the wrong side of 30 and new faces will arrive.

Ciro Ferrara is now 36, Paolo Montero is 32, while Lilian Thuram is just weeks away from his 32nd birthday.

The Bianconeri already brought in Nicola Legrottaglie last summer but transfer chief Luciano Moggi has his eyes on two promising Italian defenders.

Parma stopper Daniele Bonera (pictured) is at the top of his list. The Under-21 international is a target for most of Italy’s top clubs.

The former Brescia youngster has the added ability that he can play both as a right-back and in the centre of defence.

The second player that the Delle Alpi outfit are supposedly interested in is Brescia’s Dario Dainelli. The 24-year-old has also been linked with Lazio.

Juventus are still in contention with Cheslea to sign Bayer Leverkusen stopper Lucio at the end of term.

dreamer, good news. think 1 or 2 new defenders will be joining juve soon :D

gd gd...:)

dreamer75

05-12-2003, 04:21 PM

BY ANDREW DAMPF
Associated Press
Dec 5, 2003 1:16 a.m.

ROME (AP)¡X Alarm bells are sounding for Juventus.
Too many goals are being scored on the "Old Lady" of Italian soccer.

The two-time defending Italian league champion got beat 3-1 at home by Inter Milan last Saturday, thus giving up the Serie A lead, and then went down 2-0 to Galatasaray in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Juventus had already qualified for the second round of Europe's top club competition and dropped only one point behind league co-leaders AS Roma and AC Milan, yet local pundits have been digging through the numbers to see what's wrong with the perennial champion.

A front-page editorial in Thursday's Gazzetta dello Sport was headlined "Juventus' alarm is in defense":

"Juventus is still the Juventus of five days ago, although looking at some particular stats, one can see what the problem is," the editorial said. "Juventus has given up 12 goals in 11 league games. No one has ever won the title with those types of numbers.

"Juventus has scored the most goals, 26, but it's third in the standings. Milan has scored 25 percent fewer goals, but it's ahead because it's given up a third of the goals that Juve has. Same with Roma."

"Juventus doesn't have a defense that conforms with its offense," the Gazzetta editorial said.

The numbers are a sharp turnaround from each of the previous four seasons, when Juventus gave up fewer goals than any other club. Gianluigi Buffon is still considered by many as the world's best goalkeeper, so the focus is on the defenders.

All of Juve's defenders are of top-notch quality, it just seems there are not enough of them. Age is also a factor.

Ciro Ferrara is 36, Paolo Montero 32, Lilian Thuram 31, Mark Iuliano 30 and Alessandro Birindelli 29. Juve's one big defensive acquisition in the offseason was 27-year-old Nicola Legrottaglie from Chievo.

The club has made no secret it is in the market for younger defenders.

Roma has given up the fewest number of goals this season with a defense bolstered by the addition of 23-year-old Christian Chivu from Ajax.

Milan is anchored by the veteran pair of Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Nesta and has a deep roster of secondary defenders to switch around match by match.

The Gazzetta editorial highlighted the contrast between Juve and its two major contenders for the title thus far:

"Roma has been scored on in only three of 11 matches, Milan four. Juve is exactly the opposite. It has not been scored on only three times. In essence, Juve must always score two goals to win. In fact, the only two times that it hasn't done so, it lost to Inter and drew with Milan."

Thuram agreed that Juve must change its ways if it wants to win a record 28th "scudetto" - title.

"In effect, if we continue to give up so many goals it will be difficult to win the scudetto," the Frenchman said. "Because you win by giving up fewer goals than the others."

On Saturday, Juve faces another struggling protagonist of Serie A - Lazio. The Roman club lost 3-0 to newly promoted Siena last weekend and is eight points off the lead.

"To talk about a crisis after one loss is absurd and we won't be in crisis mode against Lazio," Thuram said.

Milan visits Empoli on Saturday and Roma plays Chievo in Verona on Sunday night.

Sunday's other matches are Bologna vs. Ancona, Inter vs. Perugia, Lecce vs. Parma, Modena vs. Brescia, Sampdoria vs. Siena and Udinese vs. Reggina.

(asd/vls)

http://www.foxsportsworld.com/content/view?contentId=1919348

dreamer75

06-12-2003, 01:03 AM

Last week's whitewash at the hands of Inter was a wake-up call for the Bianconeri as it brought the team back to earth after spending 3 lovely months in heaven. The team had the best start in many seasons and no matter which Juve side entered the pitch, it would somehow manage to come out as victors. The team was praised for its solidity lead by Lippi and emerged as early favourites to secure the Scudetto for the third consecutive time and do well in the European scene. However, the team seem to have hit a brick-wall recently and the sweet victories have been hard to come by and suddenly things are not quite as rosy as it used to be.

Juve will have to lick their wounds after the double defeats over the week and start all over again. Against Inter the team appeared to lack motivation - or at least were less motivated than the damn Interistas. Against Galatasaray the team improved but were far from clinical (Di Vaio forgot to take his scoring boot with him to Dortmund!!). But against Lazio - no question - Juve will certainly be fully charged up for a first-class performance, crowned with the matche's 3 points on offer, to strike fear again across Italy and Europe.

Lazio will also enter the match with something to prove following their shambolic defeat at Siena last weekend, even though the team saved some face by winning in the less glamorous Coppa Italia. Ultra-sophisticated coach Mancini stated after the Siena defeat that 11 lions will be facing Juve, not exactly the sort of Santa Claus gift you might expect. Amongst those lions will be a certain Stam, the mountain of a defender from the Netherlands seems to finally be fit again after the several set-backs he faced since the start of the season.

Tactical-Setup

Lippi's rotation system sees 'JuveA' back to business under the 4-2-3-1 formation. All eyes will be on Alex Del Piero, as several eyebrows were raised when Lippi opted for him ahead of an in-form Di Vaio. Il capitano is yet to repay the coach. Trezeguet spearheads Juve’s attack and lets hope he is as clinical as ever.

http://www.juventus.com/juventus/it/images/200340/delpierojuve.jpg
Alex scored 6 goals against Lazio.

Nedved plays against his former teammates and fans in the Olympico whereas Zambro makes a welcome comeback after missing on the Inter and Galatasaray defeats. Thuram indicated that winning the Scudetto will be harder if the team keeps conceding many goals, hope he gives a shout or two to Legro and Montero to hold that fragile defense better.

http://www.juventus.com/juventus/it/gallery/images/20021216/nedved03.jpg
Special match for Nedved

Even though Lopez and Cesar have recovered from their respective injuries, they are not fit enough to start the match. This will affect Lazio's ability to lead swift attacks in which they were famously known for last season. Mancini will also have to contend with Stankovic's absence as the captain serves the first game in a 4-match ban after his not-so-friendly confrontation with a linesman. Mancini has rotated his midfield previously with many players, including: Dabo, Albertini, Liverani, and Giannichedda. The latter is expected to deputies for Stankovic.

Lazio’s attack is lead by the dangerous duo: Corradi-Inzaghi. Even though Corradi has been less active lately and is suffering from a drop of form but still you never know when could he pop-up to score a goal or set up one. As mentioned earlier, Giannichedda is expected to partner Albertini in center of midfield, whereas Fiore plays in the right and Zauri in the left, deputizing for the injured Cesar.

Stam is expected to play as rightback to stop Del Piero, replacing the more-offensive Oddo, while Favalli plays on the left-back position. Centre defense consists of hot-tempered and free-kick specialist Mihajlovic and captain Negro. If needed, Mancini could use Oddo, Conceiçao and Lopez as attacking options in the second half.

Juve last sunk Lazio away in 1999, with a double scored by Thierry Henry and another goal scored by Nicola Amoruso. Lazio replied with current coach Roberto Mancini. Lazio-Juve was played 60 times before, with Lazio winning 23 times, Juve winning a close 22 times and the match ending in a tie 15 times. Both teams scored 81 goals against each other.

http://www.juventus.com/juventus/en/images/200348/buffonnews.jpg
Buffon saved a late Fiore penalty last season.

dreamer75

06-12-2003, 01:05 AM

"Nedved did everything this season but its still not enough to win the FIFA World Player of the Year. To do that, he will need to get a Brazilian passport, shave his head and wear a buck-tooth!!"

dreamer75

06-12-2003, 01:06 AM

Lippi dismisses crisis claims Friday 5 December, 2003

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Juventus may have lost their last two games but boss Marcello Lippi has dismissed talk of a crisis.

The Bianconeri surprisingly lost 3-1 at home to Inter last week, before their 2-0 Champions’ League defeat against Galatasaray.

"We’re not in crisis," stated the tactician. "Our one defeat in the League hasn’t really changed too much for us. After all, you can’t win all of the time."

Critics have pinpointed the defence as Juventus’ weakness this term but Lippi is standing by his men.

"My squad is at it’s very best right now," he added. "We just need to make a few adjustments in that department.

"The attacks that we have received are unjustified and we will demonstrate that tomorrow against Lazio - no matter what the result is. Even a defeat wouldn’t make a difference."

Lippi has such faith in his players that he rates this current group as one of his best ever.

"This side has taken a different path to the ones of the past," he explained. "It is true that we are conceding more goals but we are scoring a lot more.

"We are also using the rotation system which makes all of my squad feel important, a ploy that will allow us to go far."

Lippi hasn’t given any indication of his starting XI for the Lazio tie but Edgar Davids could return as he is suspended for the midweek Olympiakos clash.

Alex Del Piero is also set to play despite his poor recent form. "My champions are untouchable," added the Coach. "Del Piero will soon be back to his decisive best."

demouse

06-12-2003, 05:20 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75
"Nedved did everything this season but its still not enough to win the FIFA World Player of the Year. To do that, he will need to get a Brazilian passport, shave his head and wear a buck-tooth!!"

or a french passport? :sarcastic

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 02:33 AM

BACKGROUND:

Lazio and Juventus will face each other at the Stadio Olimpico for the 69th time in Serie A on Saturday night.

Nearly perfect equilibrium for both teams in terms of victories, where the biancocelesti won 25 times against the bianconeri's 24 victories; the match ended 19 times in a draw.

Last year's encounter ended in a 0-0 and Buffon had saved a second half penalty from Fiore on that occasion. The last Lazio win came on the 24th of November 2001 thanks to a Liverani's lob after a mistake in midfield by Tacchinardi. Juve's last victory was on the 17th of April 1999 when a Henry's brace awarded the bianconeri with a 3-1 away victory, which in the end resulted crucial for Lazio's league title loss against Milan.

The home side come from a much needed Coppa Italia win which has brought some fresh air around the team, following some bad results both in Serie A and the Champions League. Mancini's squad needs to win this match to keep in touch with the big guns and get that much needed extra motivation to be able to go in Prague and win. The Champions League encounter might actually end up distracting the Lazio players who might not be 100% focused on the Serie A match, however obtaining a positive result against Juventus might be very important for the team's current season.

Juventus on the other hand just arrive to this match from their worst week of this season following consecutive defeats against Inter and Galatasaray. If for the Champions League encounter one can argue that Lippi only fielded his second string players, which is still a very strong line-up, and the team played a good first 60 minutes in which only poor finishing prevented them from winning the match, against Inter Lippi's team looked just a shadow of the team everyone had admired and tipped for Serie A supremacy in the previous weeks. So for the Tuscan coach, the pre-match training must have focused mostly on the psychological aspect, to try and get the team back on track and continue where they left off prior to the Inter match.

Lazio's main problem this season seems to be the attack where in more than one occasion, all forwards failed to deliver, even though Simone Inzaghi has at times done quite well and deservely received a call-up for the Italian national team two weeks ago.

On the other hand, as underlined by Thuram, Juve's main problem this season is the defence or rather lack of it considering that the bianconeri have conceded 12 goals in Serie A so far from 11 matches played, while last year they had only conceded 6 goals during the same period. The problem lies in the aging defenders who most of them are well over the 30 year age mark. If things go on like this, Moggi might be pressed to buy a quality defender in January, top of the list being Lucio.

TEAM NEWS:

Lazio - Mancini will be able to recover Stam for this important encounter. This will surely be an important recovery since Lazio without Stam is very easily perforated. Stankovic will be serving the first of four matches in which he is banned, whilst Cesar is still unavailable.

Juventus - Despite the two successive defeats, Lippi will still continue using his much beloved turn over, and he will consequently field players who have not played last Tuesday in Dortmund. Only Birindelli is unavailable whilst Zambrotta has recovered completely from his muscular injury.

PROBABLE FORMATIONS:

Lazio (4-4-2) - Peruzzi; Stam, Negro, Mihajlovic, Favalli; Fiore, Giannichedda, Albertini, Zauri; Corradi, S. Inzaghi

Juventus (4-2-3-1) - Buffon; Thuram, Legrottaglie, Montero, Zambrotta; Tacchinardi, Appiah; Camoranesi, Nedved, Del Piero; Trezeguet

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Fiore (Lazio) - Last season he missed a penalty against the bianconeri which would have given the victory to his team; he will be surely trying to make amends.

Del Piero (Juventus) - Even though he is out of form, as it usually happens to him for the first few months after an injury, Lippi is still trusting in his class knowing that sooner or later this trust will be re-paid.

http://www.soccerage.com/en/13/r8533.html

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 02:34 AM

It’s reported that a special meeting was held between Lazio and Juventus directors to discuss Dejan Stankovic and Massimo Oddo.

The Capital club is still in financial difficulty and may be forced to sell some of its top stars, although Inter were this week strongly linked to Stankovic.

The Serb is almost certain to leave in January as he will be a free agent at the end of the season, but Juventus are now preparing to ambush the proposed move to Inter.

It’s claimed that late last night Bianconeri transfer guru Luciano Moggi and administrator Antonio Giraudo met with Lazio Director General Giuseppe De Mita and Coach Roberto Mancini in a Roman hotel.

If Stankovic is torn between the San Siro and Stadio Delle Alpi, then there seems to be just one destination for Massimo Oddo.

The fullback was only signed from Verona last season, but has impressed so much in the Capital that he was made an Italian international.

It is entirely possible that Oddo could be released in January if creative midfielder Enzo Maresca is included as part of the deal.

Juve need a fullback to improve their disappointing defence, while Lazio are on the look out for a midfield option.

Mancini has confirmed he is ready to release Oddo, as he is often left on the bench in favour of Jaap Stam for that right-back role.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec6g.html

RuMmYtUb

07-12-2003, 09:49 AM

Sianz 2 losses in a week for Juve.. :( :mad:

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 08:17 PM

Serie A Week 12 - 6/12/03 (20.30)
Lazio 2 - 0 Juventus
Corradi 20 (L), Fiore 45 (L)
Stadio Olimpico

---------------------------------------------------------

Juventus collapse to their third defeat on the trot as injury-hit Lazio take a deserved 2-0 victory at the Olimpico.

Both these teams were desperate for a result following a series of setbacks in all competitions. Juventus were unbeaten until last week, but suffered two consecutive defeats to Inter and Galatasaray. Lazio have struggled in the last month and risked slipping out of the title chase altogether.

Despite his disappointing recent form, Alessandro Del Piero retained his starting place alongside David Trezeguet, while Edgar Davids was again left on the bench.

Crucially, Gianluca Zambrotta made his return from injury after missing both those defeats. Pavel Nedved stepped back into the Stadio Olimpico following his five years as a fan favourite here.

Lazio fielded a trident attack with Claudio Lopez out wide around front two Bernardo Corradi and Roberto Muzzi. Jaap Stam and Giuseppe Favalli returned from injury to shore up the defence, but Dejan Stankovic is suspended.

The Biancocelesti have an excellent record against Juventus, as the Turin giants have not won here since 1999, earning two draws and three defeats. During that period Juve have scored just twice.

The home side had the first chance on four minutes when Muzzi nodded a Claudio Lopez cross wide of the near post.

Juve tried to strike on the counter-attack, but Del Piero and Nedved got in each others' way and the chance went begging.

Corradi brought a fine reaction save out of Gianluigi Buffon at the near post, but the move was halted due to a foul on Zambrotta.

A well-taken free kick was clipped back into the box for Stam, but some desperate defending managed to clear the danger.

Lazio were taking control of the game and eventually took a deserved lead on 20 minutes. A Stam throw-in reached Stefano Fiore and Corradi's wonderful glancing header took the entire Juve defence by surprise.

The Bianconeri fought back immediately and Angelo Peruzzi did well to parry a Del Piero volley from eight yards.

There was bad news for Lazio soon after, as Muzzi limped off with an apparent injury to be replaced by Fabio Liverani.

Nedved nearly netted a spectacular equaliser against his former club when Peruzzi tipped a swerving free kick over the bar.

There was further trouble when Claudio Lopez suffered a recurrence of a knee injury. The Argentine, who has been out for several weeks, was practically in tears with the pain and was forced off in favour of Massimo Oddo.

Nonetheless, the Romans kept on coming and Buffon just beat Corradi to another fine Fiore cross.

On 35 minutes it looked as if Lazio had made it two, but a Mihajlovic free kick flew inches wide of the upright off Corradi's shoulder.

Roberto Mancini's men were pouring forward in waves and Paolo Montero was booked for a bodycheck on Giuliano Giannichedda. It could have been a last man foul, but Lilian Thuram was near enough to save him from the red card.

From the resulting free kick just outside the box Buffon flew to palm out a Mihajlovic curler. Confidence increased, and a well-worked move saw Fiore fire wide following Corradi's dummy.

The pressure was increasing and in first half stoppage time Lazio doubled their lead. Corradi took advantage of some poor Nicola Legrottaglie defending to cut back for the unmarked Fiore from ten yards.

Marcello Lippi had to make changes and performed all three substitutions at half-time, introducing Marco Di Vaio, Ciro Ferrara and Enzo Maresca.

It was a special moment for Di Vaio, a Lazio youth product who has never hidden his love for the blue and white colours.

The ex-Parma man made an immediate impact and wreaked havoc in the box before his effort was scrambled out for a corner.

However, this left more spaces at the back for Lazio to attack in and some desperate defending prevented Fiore getting to a smart Oddo centre.

Soon after Jaap Stam charged all the way up the field and a powerful drive brought a difficult save out of Buffon.

Lazio's luck was getting no better, as within ten minutes of the restart Sinisa Mihajlovic pulled up with what looks to be a thigh strain. The third substitution was forced, leaving Simone Inzaghi on the bench.

Juventus continued to struggle and a Nedved free kick was deflected on to the side netting. On the resulting corner Stephan Appiah's volley was blocked and there were appeals for Giannichedda's handling offence. Replays suggest there was contact with an outstretched arm, although the two players were very close together.

The Capital club tend to drop off towards the end of matches and that was again true in this encounter as Di Vaio drilled over from the edge of the box.

Peruzzi fumbled the ball under pressure from Di Vaio, but Nedved's follow-up came off his teammate.

The Italian international went close again soon after when he gathered Del Piero's through ball, but went for glory and shot wide of the near post, then Legrottaglie nodded a good chance over the bar.

---------------------------------------------------------

Lazio: Peruzzi; Stam, Negro, Mihajlovic (Couto 56), Favalli; Fiore, Albertini, Giannichedda, Lopez (Oddo 33); Corradi, Muzzi (Liverani 25)

Juventus: Buffon; Thuram, Legrottaglie, Montero (Ferrara 46), Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Maresca 46), Tacchinardi, Nedved, Appiah; Del Piero, Trezeguet (Di Vaio 46)

Ref: Bolognino

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 08:18 PM

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Sianz 2 losses in a week for Juve.. :( :mad:

Dissapointed? yes. Give up? No!
It's like a wheel you know, ups and down.
You see, Real Madrid lost from a team of nowhere, they're okay, they're back with double spirit!
ManUtd lost from Soton or Chelsea, but look at them...there's nothing wrong with their performance.
They're in the big 3 in their league, so are we.
Don't worry....we'll be back soon. With all hope and pray.
Keep the fighting spirit...Never Give up, Juve!

FORZA JUVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

:)

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 08:28 PM

Mancini did his homework.

1. Lazio crowded both flanks. I lost count of the number of times the likes of Thuram and Camo ran into a brickwall (averaging 3-4 Laziali closing down intensely near the halfway line) That effectively killed our attacking initiative very early. Considering our reliance on that particular buildup, well ... The embarassing thing is we kept on doing the same thing over and over again. Zambrotta diving to bluff a foul neear the byline when he couldn't inch past Stam (who played RB) summed it all up.

2. Speed. We build VERY slowly and predictably. We're remarkably like some teams at their (longball) best. The typical move starts from square-passing amongst the defenders. They then relay possession to the DMs, whose job is basically getting rid of the ball asap as opposed to playing. It sounds ridiculous but we actually looked worse with the ball than without. I don't think I need to elaborate on the range, variation, creativity and quality of our passing in CM. We were chasing shadows for the entire 1st half until they closed shop in the 2nd half. Even then, when we were allowed the space to play a bit, it was painful watching them struggling to drag the ball upwards.

3. I've been saying this forever : there is NO flow, chemistry, attacking cohesion upfront. We have 4 or more top-notch individuals running around aimlessly on their own.

4. Bleak facts : Lazio didn't have Stankovic, had Stam just returning from injury, lost Lopez and Muzzi, even had Giannichedda hopping around on 1 leg while Juve played their best team.

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 08:31 PM

Marcello Lippi admits he wanted to substitute his entire squad halfway through their shock 2-0 defeat at Lazio.

“I can say in all honesty that if I had the opportunity I would have changed seven or eight players at half-time,” confessed the Juventus Coach.

“Those substituted should not feel they are at fault, because the worst culprits are the Coach and training staff. It isn’t possible that this squad presents itself in this manner.”

Paolo Montero, David Trezeguet and Mauro Camoranesi made way for Ciro Ferrara, Marco Di Vaio and Enzo Maresca during the break.

“Three changes at half-time were a big risk, especially as an injury would leave us in ten men, but something had to be done to change this dreadful performance.”

The Bianconeri are continuing to struggle with a third defeat on the trot to Inter, Galatasaray and now Lazio.

“The team was absolutely not prepared for this game and not up to the challenge. I refused to speak of a crisis at the club as I maintain it an exaggerated term after going unbeaten for the whole campaign.”

“However,” added Lippi, “the last two or three weeks have been disappointing and we are effectively below par right now.”

“Everybody is struggling at the moment and we should not single individuals or areas of the side out for particular criticism. We were awful all over the park.”

Juventus were perhaps denied a penalty when Giuliano Giannichedda handled in the box, but the Coach refused to accept alibis.

“I don’t think it right to zero in on one incident following a game like this in which we were comprehensively outplayed.”

“I am not angry with my players as they gave the fans so much joy over the last few years. I am disappointed as many of them are currently below par.”

The Scudetto holders are now four points adrift of leaders Milan and have a very poor defensive record.

“I will not change system as we already have several different tactics and rotate them based on our opponents and the players at our disposal,” insisted Lippi.

The tactician had maintained he would never leave out Alessandro Del Piero, but the off-form captain could be forced to make way.

“There is no need to panic, but I will continue to make individual choices with each passing game. If a player deserves to be there more than another then I shall make that decision.”

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec6l.html

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 09:07 PM

I'm very sad for this ko, i'm the guilty along with all the technical staff for being unable to present the team in the best condition". This is Marcello Lippi's first comment after the lost match against Lazio. "The
three changes? I could change 7 or 8 players for the match we were playing.
Anyway last season we lost two consecutive matches too, but we've been able
to win the scudetto, so we must not create a drama after tonight".

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 09:08 PM

"We must stay united, because next week will be a hard week: two consecutive lost matches say we are in a bad moment, but our quality is that we don't get down in bad moments". This is Ciro Ferrara's comment after Lazio-Juve. It's not the first time we loose two matches, if the end will be the same of last season it could be good for us... Milan is ahead? I just look at my team, the gap is not so big".

http://www.juventus.it/juventus/en/cmc/seriea/200349/cmc_60574.html

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 09:09 PM

Sat 6 December, 2003 23:44

ROME, Dec 6 (Reuters) - Juventus coach Marcello Lippi rejected talk of a crisis after watching his side slump to their third consecutive defeat with a 2-0 loss against Lazio on Saturday.

The result made it three losses in a row for the Italian champions, who were also beaten 3-1 by Serie A challengers Inter Milan and 2-0 by Champions League rivals Galatasaray during the last seven days.

"Let's forget all this talk about three defeats in a row. Let's just talk about the last two in Serie A," Lippi told reporters after the match.

"The midweek game (against Galatasaray) was different. It didn't count in the same way," he said.

Juventus had already qualified for the knockout phase of the Champions League and fielded a second-string side against the Turks in the rescheduled match in Dortmund on Tuesday.

Juventus remain third in Serie A on 26 points, four points behind leaders AC Milan, who beat Empoli 1-0 earlier on Saturday.

Lippi, however, insisted that the last three games represented nothing more than a hiccup.

Until last weekend, Juventus had gone 16 matches without defeat in domestic and European competitions.

"This isn't a crisis. Only seven days ago, I was being asked whether my team was unbeatable," he said.

"The team is a bit below-par right now. That's no reason to write us off.

"At one point last season we were six points off the lead and went on to win the championship. We're only four points off the top now."

Juventus defender Ciro Ferrara backed up his coach.

"A couple of weekends ago everyone was praising us. It just shows how quickly things change in football," he said.

"Every year we go through a bad patch. Let's hope we come through it like we have in the past."

http://www.reuters.co.uk/newsArticle.jhtml?type=worldFootballNews&storyID=3949856&section=news

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 09:10 PM

Veteran Ciro Ferrara has urged Juventus to stay calm and united in the face of their worst run of results for twelve years.

“This is evidently a difficult time for us,” noted the defender. “The two defeats to other title contenders is a problem, but our strength is in staying concentrated during the highs and the lows.”

Juve have taken the Scudetto for two years running, but in the last week suffered three setbacks on the trot to Inter, Galatasaray in the Champions’ League and Lazio.

The Turin giants had not lost three consecutive matches since April 1991, when Gigi Maifredi’s side crumbled to Fiorentina, Barcelona and Torino.

“We must remain united in the face of what will be a difficult week for us,” insisted Ferrara. “Panicking now would be disastrous.”

Juve are qualified for the next stage of the Champions’ League, but still need a point from Olympiakos to be certain of topping the Group.

Serie A also holds a tricky task as old rivals Parma come to the Delle Alpi next weekend and leaders Milan are already four points ahead.

“The gap is not an abyss yet,” maintained the 36-year-old. “After all, in the last two seasons we struggled in December only to surge towards the title straight after Christmas.”

The real difference in their performance this year is the defence, which has already conceded 14 goals in Serie A compared to Milan’s 4.

“We certainly can’t sit here comparing our statistics to Roma and Milan. All we can do is analyse our own problems and where we are going wrong.”

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec7f.html

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 09:22 PM

Well, after tonights game, not to mention the game against Inter and our draws against Roma and Milan (we have collected only 2 points from 4 derbies) and we now have 3 defeats in a row, and seeing our play tonight I can predict a 4th one aganst Parma. The cracks in our armour have been overexposed during the last few weeks and I feel we should do something in Januray to rectify the situation.

Imo, we firstly need a new defender (surprise, surprise). Somebody fast and solid, experienced, but not old. IMO, we need instant improvement, we cant afford to take a chance on a young, promising player that could end up making the misstakes Legro does. IMO, Lucio would be perfect, and I believe Moggi will make it happen.

Next, we need a playmaker, a player of the Aimar type, somebody that can make that final pass, or that solo run, someone that would help us become less dependant on Nedved, someone with great vision, flair, technique and passing. Unfortunately, there are few good players like that, and even fewer that we would be able to buy in the winter transfer window. Therefore I propose givin Olivera a chance, we certanly dont have anything to lose anymore. But for next year a playmaker is a must.

Next, IMO we have a problem on the right flank, where Camo just inst performing. we can no longer expect much from him, and IMO it's time for a replacement. He's too inconsistent, selfish at times, and loses more balls than the other 10 players can win. IMO, we need a Zambrotta type of wing on the right side, therefor I will again propose Salihamidzic, but knowing that will never happen, I guess a player like Santana would be a good alternative.

And last, but not least, I believe we need a real left winger, as Zambrotta cant do all the work himself. Imo, Jankulovski would be a good aquasition for this position

Anyways, let me hear your suggestions.

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 09:24 PM

Juve pounce on Lazio pair
Saturday 6 December, 2003

It’s reported that a special meeting was held between Lazio and Juventus directors to discuss Dejan Stankovic and Massimo Oddo.

The Capital club is still in financial difficulty and may be forced to sell some of its top stars, although Inter were this week strongly linked to Stankovic.

The Serb is almost certain to leave in January as he will be a free agent at the end of the season, but Juventus are now preparing to ambush the proposed move to Inter.

It’s claimed that late last night Bianconeri transfer guru Luciano Moggi and administrator Antonio Giraudo met with Lazio Director General Giuseppe De Mita and Coach Roberto Mancini in a Roman hotel.

If Stankovic is torn between the San Siro and Stadio Delle Alpi, then there seems to be just one destination for Massimo Oddo.

The fullback was only signed from Verona last season, but has impressed so much in the Capital that he was made an Italian international.

It is entirely possible that Oddo could be released in January if creative midfielder Enzo Maresca is included as part of the deal.

Juve need a fullback to improve their disappointing defence, while Lazio are on the look out for a midfield option.

Mancini has confirmed he is ready to release Oddo, as he is often left on the bench in favour of Jaap Stam for that right-back role.

dreamer75

07-12-2003, 10:06 PM

We've already guaranteed qualification, but it's crucial that we finish first in the group so as to avoid meeting Real Madrid or Chelsea in the next round. Juve only need a point at home to Olympiakos, but after three consecutive defeats, even the Greeks must be confident.

Lippi should play Del Piero and Trezeguet (who are clearly out of form) in this match, and let Di Vaio and Miccoli start against Parma (they deserve the opportunity). Davids is suspended so we'll most likely see Maresca in midfield.

RuMmYtUb

08-12-2003, 12:29 AM

Originally posted by dreamer75

Dissapointed? yes. Give up? No!
It's like a wheel you know, ups and down.
You see, Real Madrid lost from a team of nowhere, they're okay, they're back with double spirit!
ManUtd lost from Soton or Chelsea, but look at them...there's nothing wrong with their performance.
They're in the big 3 in their league, so are we.
Don't worry....we'll be back soon. With all hope and pray.
Keep the fighting spirit...Never Give up, Juve!

FORZA JUVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

:)

Hope they muz beat those smaller clubs, that's what true champions are, consistent and collect as much points as possible.. :D

hwmook

08-12-2003, 01:35 AM

Originally posted by dreamer75
Mancini did his homework.

1. Lazio crowded both flanks. I lost count of the number of times the likes of Thuram and Camo ran into a brickwall (averaging 3-4 Laziali closing down intensely near the halfway line) That effectively killed our attacking initiative very early. Considering our reliance on that particular buildup, well ... The embarassing thing is we kept on doing the same thing over and over again. Zambrotta diving to bluff a foul neear the byline when he couldn't inch past Stam (who played RB) summed it all up.

2. Speed. We build VERY slowly and predictably. We're remarkably like some teams at their (longball) best. The typical move starts from square-passing amongst the defenders. They then relay possession to the DMs, whose job is basically getting rid of the ball asap as opposed to playing. It sounds ridiculous but we actually looked worse with the ball than without. I don't think I need to elaborate on the range, variation, creativity and quality of our passing in CM. We were chasing shadows for the entire 1st half until they closed shop in the 2nd half. Even then, when we were allowed the space to play a bit, it was painful watching them struggling to drag the ball upwards.

3. I've been saying this forever : there is NO flow, chemistry, attacking cohesion upfront. We have 4 or more top-notch individuals running around aimlessly on their own.

4. Bleak facts : Lazio didn't have Stankovic, had Stam just returning from injury, lost Lopez and Muzzi, even had Giannichedda hopping around on 1 leg while Juve played their best team.

lippi never think before the match. legro is playing extremely poor for as long as i can remember( to be exact its every juve game i have seen this season). i don't understand why someone playing so badly is still starting every match. my advice get rid of him ASAP. montero is not playing well either. ferrara has more experience and play better than both of them. he should be the one starting not them.

appiah is playing quite well up front but he need to move back more to cover the defence. i keep seeing him getting the ball in midfield when juve attack but when lazio counter he is not around to win back the ball.

i also notice that most of juve play are from the flanks seldom do they make use of the centre, lippi need to improve on this area.

camo is a player i don't like. he is very inconsisent and he doesn't play well in europeans matches( i notice this last season). he seem to have lose it in the italian matches as well, he keep pumping balls up but all never reach any target.

i feel that its lippi who is complacent after winning so many games. he have not bothered to repair the weak defence and some aspect of their play. i hope juve pick themselves up and make it a three horses race not a two horses one.

hwmook

08-12-2003, 01:46 AM

Originally posted by hwmook

its normal for juve, week in week out it happen lah. if juve really get maximum points for the next three matches then i will declare juve the rightful owner of this season title until then let just see how long they can mantain the pace.
this year winner will be between milan, juve and roma.

out of the three matches juve lost two and one is yet to be played so bro the title can not be given to juve. they have lost the pace.

i think roma have the best chance to win this year title follow closely by milan. juve is further behind in third.
milan and juve still have CL to play while roma don't have the same troubles. roma is in top form now and i have no idea when its going to stop( maybe when they meet milan in 6th jan next year). milan is yet to hit top form but still collecting the points nevertheless. juve have already lost the good form and is now in a losing streak.

its going to be really exciting this year.

demouse

08-12-2003, 11:09 AM

Originally posted by dreamer75
A front-page editorial in Thursday's Gazzetta dello Sport was headlined "Juventus' alarm is in defense"
IMO, the whole of juventus is in alarm.

Originally posted by dreamer75
Well, after tonights game, not to mention the game against Inter and our draws against Roma and Milan (we have collected only 2 points from 4 derbies) and we now have 3 defeats in a row, and seeing our play tonight I can predict a 4th one aganst Parma. The cracks in our armour have been overexposed during the last few weeks and I feel we should do something in Januray to rectify the situation.
a win (or thrash) at homa against olympiakos will be on time to boost their morale before the match against parma. after all, they're juventus.

Originally posted by dreamer75
Imo, we firstly need a new defender (surprise, surprise). Somebody fast and solid, experienced, but not old. IMO, we need instant improvement, we cant afford to take a chance on a young, promising player that could end up making the misstakes Legro does. IMO, Lucio would be perfect, and I believe Moggi will make it happen.
a must for juventus. but should not put all hopes on Lucio as chelsea are also chasing for him. juve might not be able to meet the price chelsea offered :(

Originally posted by dreamer75
Next, we need a playmaker, a player of the Aimar type, somebody that can make that final pass, or that solo run, someone that would help us become less dependant on Nedved, someone with great vision, flair, technique and passing. Unfortunately, there are few good players like that, and even fewer that we would be able to buy in the winter transfer window. Therefore I propose givin Olivera a chance, we certanly dont have anything to lose anymore. But for next year a playmaker is a must.
like i said in previous thread, juve NEED a playmaker. no one will have doubt on aimar's ability but he cost a bomb. i doubt moggi willing to fork out the $. will Riquelme or Rosky cost a little less?

Originally posted by dreamer75
Next, IMO we have a problem on the right flank, where Camo just inst performing. we can no longer expect much from him, and IMO it's time for a replacement. He's too inconsistent, selfish at times, and loses more balls than the other 10 players can win. IMO, we need a Zambrotta type of wing on the right side, therefor I will again propose Salihamidzic, but knowing that will never happen, I guess a player like Santana would be a good alternative.

And last, but not least, I believe we need a real left winger, as Zambrotta cant do all the work himself. Imo, Jankulovski would be a good aquasition for this position
Camo is a big disappointment. no wonder juve wanted to off-load him to Parma for youngsters Daniele Bonera and Alberto Gilardino [but i doubt Parma want him after seeing his performance so far :alien:]. but getting a replacement might be too late for this season, how about letting Zambrotta play back his usual role and get a new LB?

demouse

08-12-2003, 11:23 AM

Originally posted by hwmook

lippi never think before the match. legro is playing extremely poor for as long as i can remember (to be exact its every juve game i have seen this season). i don't understand why someone playing so badly is still starting every match. my advice get rid of him ASAP. montero is not playing well either. ferrara has more experience and play better than both of them. he should be the one starting not them.

appiah is playing quite well up front but he need to move back more to cover the defence. i keep seeing him getting the ball in midfield when juve attack but when lazio counter he is not around to win back the ball.

i also notice that most of juve play are from the flanks seldom do they make use of the centre, lippi need to improve on this area.

camo is a player i don't like. he is very inconsisent and he doesn't play well in europeans matches (i notice this last season). he seem to have lose it in the italian matches as well, he keep pumping balls up but all never reach any target.

i feel that its lippi who is complacent after winning so many games. he have not bothered to repair the weak defence and some aspect of their play. i hope juve pick themselves up and make it a three horses race not a two horses one.

maybe everybody has been putting too high hope on legro and he can't take the pressure? although ferrara he's good but he can't play for 90 mins and he's slow. a new defender is a must.

wondering why not try to retain davids. while appiah is playing quite well up front and davids can cover at the back.

as for camo, can forget about him. if any clubs want him is time to off-load him.

dun forget inter is 1 pt behind, parma 2 pts behind and lazio 4 pts behind juve. it should be 5 horses race......

demouse

08-12-2003, 11:29 AM

Originally posted by hwmook

out of the three matches juve lost two and one is yet to be played so bro the title can not be given to juve. they have lost the pace.

i think roma have the best chance to win this year title follow closely by milan. juve is further behind in third.
milan and juve still have CL to play while roma don't have the same troubles. roma is in top form now and i have no idea when its going to stop (maybe when they meet milan in 6th jan next year). milan is yet to hit top form but still collecting the points nevertheless. juve have already lost the good form and is now in a losing streak.

its going to be really exciting this year.

who ever won the match between Roma vs Milan would not decide who the title go. i think when CL started their knockout round, then maybe is a good chance for Roma to take advantage.

but history told us too competitive in Serie A usually cost them in CL.......

intermilansg

08-12-2003, 07:49 PM

Roma this season has the best chance of winning it this season

RuMmYtUb

08-12-2003, 10:59 PM

Originally posted by intermilansg
Roma this season has the best chance of winning it this season

Too early to decide who's the champ..

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 01:55 PM

Originally posted by hwmook

lippi never think before the match. legro is playing extremely poor for as long as i can remember( to be exact its every juve game i have seen this season). i don't understand why someone playing so badly is still starting every match. my advice get rid of him ASAP. montero is not playing well either. ferrara has more experience and play better than both of them. he should be the one starting not them.

appiah is playing quite well up front but he need to move back more to cover the defence. i keep seeing him getting the ball in midfield when juve attack but when lazio counter he is not around to win back the ball.

i also notice that most of juve play are from the flanks seldom do they make use of the centre, lippi need to improve on this area.

camo is a player i don't like. he is very inconsisent and he doesn't play well in europeans matches( i notice this last season). he seem to have lose it in the italian matches as well, he keep pumping balls up but all never reach any target.

i feel that its lippi who is complacent after winning so many games. he have not bothered to repair the weak defence and some aspect of their play. i hope juve pick themselves up and make it a three horses race not a two horses one.

i dun agree with u, so how many Juve games did u watch? I watched all and i can say he is a gd defender.
He's way better than Ferrara and Montero. Players do have off days...just like the Lazio game..

I agree with the point on Camo tho..

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 01:56 PM

Originally posted by hwmook

out of the three matches juve lost two and one is yet to be played so bro the title can not be given to juve. they have lost the pace.

i think roma have the best chance to win this year title follow closely by milan. juve is further behind in third.
milan and juve still have CL to play while roma don't have the same troubles. roma is in top form now and i have no idea when its going to stop( maybe when they meet milan in 6th jan next year). milan is yet to hit top form but still collecting the points nevertheless. juve have already lost the good form and is now in a losing streak.

its going to be really exciting this year.

its still too early to say...not even half of the season yet...Juve will bounce back...everything has its ups and downs...:)

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 02:00 PM

Originally posted by demouse

Camo is a big disappointment. no wonder juve wanted to off-load him to Parma for youngsters Daniele Bonera and Alberto Gilardino [but i doubt Parma want him after seeing his performance so far :alien:]. but getting a replacement might be too late for this season, how about letting Zambrotta play back his usual role and get a new LB?

think we are the favs to sign Lucio, just wait for the gd news.

As for playmaker, Riquelme will be good since heard rumours that he wanna leave Barca. I like Aimar! :D

Camo muz go lah, he CMI!!

Hope Lippi can let some of our youngsters have sone games, like Oilvera etc..

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 02:02 PM

Originally posted by demouse

maybe everybody has been putting too high hope on legro and he can't take the pressure? although ferrara he's good but he can't play for 90 mins and he's slow. a new defender is a must.

wondering why not try to retain davids. while appiah is playing quite well up front and davids can cover at the back.

as for camo, can forget about him. if any clubs want him is time to off-load him.

dun forget inter is 1 pt behind, parma 2 pts behind and lazio 4 pts behind juve. it should be 5 horses race......

i always maintain that losing Davids might have BAD impact on us, keep him Lippi and Moggi!!

U r right, seems like its a 5-horse race at the moment. :)

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 02:04 PM

Originally posted by intermilansg
Roma this season has the best chance of winning it this season

Its still early to say, Milan is also strong!
Dun 4get ur Inter leh

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 02:05 PM

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb

Too early to decide who's the champ..

ya lor!!

FORZA JUVEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! :D

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 02:07 PM

Nicola Legrottaglie and Gianluca Zambrotta both insist that the real Juventus will return following their recent slump.

The Bianconeri are now four points behind the leaders after defeats in their last two League games against Inter and Lazio.

"We’ve complicated our lives somewhat but there are many games to go and we can recover," Legrottaglie (pictured) told TV show ‘Controcampo.’

"Juventus are a little tired right now but even the best teams can go through negative periods like this.

"Yet we are convinced of the quality that we have at this club. We haven’t become duds overnight."

Legrottaglie’s defensive colleague mirrored his views. "We’re in a tough spot but we will come out of it," Zambrotta told ‘La Domenica Sportiva.’

"I wouldn’t say that we are overly tired as we dominated in the second half against Lazio. I think Lazio’s second goal was the crucial factor on Saturday.

"We have spells like this every season but I don’t think it is something that is solely about fitness."

The Turin giants have lost their last three games if you take into account their midweek Galatasaray clash.

They’ve scored just once in those ties, conceding seven. But director general Luciano Moggi isn’t talking of a crisis.

"I really haven’t got too much to say," he explained. "But no one has died here. We’ll see what happens."

There are rumours that a new defender will definitely arrive in January with Lazio’s Massimo Oddo and Jaap Stam being heavily linked.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec8c.html

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 02:33 PM

Wait LONG LONG Barca!!!

December 9, 2003

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed his interest in Juventus star Pavel Nedved.

The Czech Republic midfield ace is on a shortlist of big-name signings Laporta has drawn up with coach Frank Rijkaard.

"We are ready to make an offer to the player if our trainer wants him." Laporta told Tuttosport yesterday. "Ours is a great club and we can attract the biggest names in the world."

Nedved is in talks with Juve about extending his current contract and has declared he is keen to see out his career in Turin.

demouse

09-12-2003, 02:38 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75
Wait LONG LONG Barca!!!

December 9, 2003

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed his interest in Juventus star Pavel Nedved.

The Czech Republic midfield ace is on a shortlist of big-name signings Laporta has drawn up with coach Frank Rijkaard.

"We are ready to make an offer to the player if our trainer wants him." Laporta told Tuttosport yesterday. "Ours is a great club and we can attract the biggest names in the world."

Nedved is in talks with Juve about extending his current contract and has declared he is keen to see out his career in Turin.

how about nedved exchange for aimar? :D

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 02:50 PM

Originally posted by demouse

how about nedved exchange for aimar? :D

No way, combine Neddy with Aimar!!

:D

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 02:51 PM

No crisis lah, just the normal ups and downs of football..

Roberto Gotta

Crisis? Which crisis? In the beautiful world of Italian football, where the pressure from - among others - TV talk shows rooted in the principle of 'who shouts the loudest is right', means that losing two games in a row constitutes a 'crisi'.

Paolo Montero hauls down Lazio goalscorer Bernardo Corradi at Stadio Olimpico (Photo/GettyImages)

So send in the cavalry - Juventus are, well, in a crisis.

If you count the midweek loss to Galatasaray in the Champions League, which did not do Juve any harm in the standings but still counts as zero points and a lot of missed goal opportunities, the Bianconeri have now lost three in a row overall and have not grabbed maximum points for a shocking - ready for it? - 13 days, since their win at Siena in the Italian Cup with what amounted to a reserve side.

A poor Saturday showing in Rome, where a Lazio itself on the verge of a crisis - who isn't, given that it takes very little to step into Crisisland? - made little work of defeating Marcello Lippi's side 2-0, means Juventus are now four points behind Milan and Roma.

A laughable gap, really, as Inter have shown, closing in to within a point of the Turin side barely seven days after being apparently out of contention. It takes little to gain and lose points and, with a bit of common sense, there would not be TV debates between commentators with furrowed brows arguing where it all went wrong.

Granted, those two Serie A defeats in a row may not have been the start of a decline or a 'crisis', but Juventus obviously do not look as brilliant and unstoppable as they were in September or in October. Some may mention that they also looked great in August, but this would again mean falling into the trap of believing that the form any team shows while strolling through the preseason friendlies, albeit competitive ones, is an indicator of how the campaign will go.

A few weeks ago I attended Juventus' game in Modena and despite their 2-0 that evening they looked strangely vulnerable, far from perfect. That they still came out on top is due to having smart, talented players, the very reason Juventus and their ilk are constantly at or near the top while others are forever struggling against relegation.

Before and after goals scored by Nedved and Tacchinardi, Juventus had looked shaky in defence against one of the least powerful Serie A sides, and this is exactly one of their problems right now, along with diminishing returns from their midfielders and the struggles of Alessandro Del Piero to find his form after his September injury.

They have conceded 14 goals in the Serie A already, and the central pairing of Montero and newcomer Legrottaglie has been troubled both by quick forwards, like Inter's Obafemi Martins and Lazio's bustling Corradi, whose wonderful headed goal on Saturday was as much due to his power and timing as Legrottaglie's hesitation in throwing himself at Fiore's right-wing cross.

Juve's next Serie A match is a tricky one at home to Parma, one of the League's better footballing sides, and it wll be very interesting to see what Lippi will do. Despite Juventus' rigidly planned turnover-system, his insistence on playing Del Piero and sticking to Appiah in midfield, despite the Ghanaian's clear loss of form, has raised objections in some quarters and has caused the Edgar Davids issue to resurface again.

Long at odds with the Turin clubs' management ('I wouldn't sit down for a coffee with them,' was last year's cliche for the Dutch midfielder), Davids has refused to sign a new contract and has been known to be unhappy: his deal expires after this season and it is well known that Fabio Capello would love to have him in his Roma side.

Lippi has only given him some run-outs in the Champions League but Davids is by no means an automatic first choice in the Serie A. His hard-running and tackling in the middle of the park could do something for Juve now while Appiah gets a rest, the reasoning goes, and it could also help provide cover for the back four.

Fear not for Juve, though, they are perfectly capable of pulling through. They also lost two consecutive Serie A matches last year, in early December, then went on to dominate the campaign, but the big difference from twelve months ago is that Milan and Roma are showing no signs of letting up, and Milan's success in particular has created a sort of bizarre contrast with Juventus. (For those who wonder where that leaves Roma, come back on these pages next week).

The perception of the two sides for the past year had been clear-cut: Juve the physically imposing, ruthless, impenetrable team who would get results but fail to win many aesthetic awards for their style, despite their abundance of world-class players; Milan, more pleasing to the eye, cleverly passing the ball, sprinkling their side with flair, attacking players like Inzaghi, Shevcenko, Kaka, Rui Costa, the now-departed Rivaldo, Seedorf, but sometimes failing to finish and to impose their will over weaker opponents.

Now, without any apparent change in personnel and to each team's footballing philosophy, Milan have developed a ruthless streak while Juventus have been profligate, leaking goals and wasting opportunities, a complete turnaround.

Davids: Off to Roma? (AlexLivesey/GettyImages)

That Milan have become the masters of 1-0 wins (seven of them already this season) is a testament to their defence, which has allowed only four goals - one of them Di Vaio's wonder strike in the 1-1 home draw with Juventus - in 12 Serie A matches. Meanwhile Inzaghi's injury problems have not been as damaging as expected because Shevcenko has kept his one-goal-a-game average and Kaka has popped up when needed, even during an uninspiring spell for him - witness his 30 yard, match-winning strike at Empoli on Saturday.

Now Milan head off to Japan for Sunday's Intercontinental Cup showdown with South America champions Boca Juniors, coached by one-time Roma manager Carlos Bianchi. Milan's top brass have been quick to remind everyone that a win there would give the Rossoneri a world-record 16th major international trophy, one more than Real Madrid and Independiente, and this makes the game in Yokohama even more significant.

To stress its importance, Milan have planned the trip to Japan in every detail, even going as far as splitting the squad in two: some players (Maldini, Nesta, Cafu, Gattuso, Pancaro, Pirlo, Shevcenko) left on Monday, the others will join them after the meaningless (for Milan) Champions League match against Celta Vigo.

A few years back, in the age of over-inflated squads when talents like Patrick Vieira could be lost among dozens of others, the only reason for splitting a travelling party would be that not even a wide-body 777 could accomodate all the players.

Now it is simply a matter of getting the more important players - at least one on defence, midfield and attack - to get over jet lag as soon as possible, with the farm hands arriving on Thursday. Real Madrid and Independiente, watch out.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/feature?id=285579&cc=4716

demouse

09-12-2003, 04:03 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75

No way, combine Neddy with Aimar!!

:D

like that cannot lah, roma scare leh :laugh:

dreamer75

09-12-2003, 04:25 PM

Originally posted by demouse

like that cannot lah, roma scare leh :laugh:

ROMA no prob lah....dun be scared! :laugh:

dreamer75

10-12-2003, 12:12 AM

Lippi announced the formation

Chimenti
Birindelli Iuliano Montero Pessotto
Conte Tudor Maresca
Miccoli
Trezeguet Zalayeta

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 12:15 AM

I like the line-up The defence is the downside of the team, but that's nothing new, and the rest of the starting XI is very good IMO.

When I've seen Zala on the right he has impressed me, and Tudor will do well in helping out the back four and supplying the forward players with passes like he did before he suffered a muscular injury earlier on in the campaign.

Maresca, Miccoli and Trezeguet only make the line-up more lethal as they all have something to prove to Lippi ATM, so they should be hungry to get on the scoresheet.

Prediction: Juventus 3-1 Olympiakos :)

intermilansg

11-12-2003, 07:18 AM

juver win 7-0 :eek:

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 11:39 AM

Originally posted by intermilansg
juver win 7-0 :eek:

yah man...FORZA JUVEEEEEEEEE!! :D

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 11:41 AM

Juventus 7 - 0 Olympiakos
Trezeguet 14, 25 (J), Miccoli 19 (J), Maresca 28 (J), Di Vaio 63 (J), Del Piero 67 (J), Zalayeta 79 (J)
Stadio delle Alpi

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Juventus have silenced their critics in some style with a 7-0 demolition of Olympiakos, but David Trezeguet was stretchered off.

Juve needed just one point in order to be sure of topping the Group, but were struggling after three consecutive defeats to Inter, Galatasaray and Lazio.

Marcello Lippi kept faith with the rotation system and made sweeping changes to the squad, fielding Antonio Chimenti, Gianluca Pessotto and Fabrizio Miccoli.

A Pavel Nedved brace decided the last encounter between these two sides, but the Czech star was rested for this return match.

The Greek outfit had a promising start and Venetidis's right-foot drive brought a good save out of Chimenti.

However, Juventus took an early lead on 14 minutes when David Trezeguet comfortably turned in an inch-perfect Enzo Maresca centre.

Moments later the Bianconeri had doubled their lead with Fabrizio Miccoli. Maresca was again involved in the move, but the ex-Perugia starlet skipped past Pantos and placed an accurate left-foot finish past the goalkeeper.

Juve were desperate for an impressive victory to silence the doubters following their recent defeats and it turned into a rout.

Five minutes later Trezeguet bagged his second of the game. Maresca and Miccoli combined on the right flank and the Frenchman was again ready for a simple strike.

Maresca had been involved in all three goals and deservedly got his name on the scorehseet. Miccoli's effort was initially parried and the former Piacenza midfielder slammed in from the edge of the box.

Lippi's men kept on pushing and a Zalayeta header was deflected on to the side netting.

Olympiakos tried to get some dignity back at the dawn of the second half and Gianluca Pessotto was forced into a goalline clearance on a corner kick.

Soon after Miccoli struck the woodwork twice in the space of the same move, while Trezeguet was unable to pounce on the loose ball.

There was bad news for the Bianconeri, as the Frenchman appeared to sprain his ankle during that incident and was stretchered off.

However, it was substitute Marco Di Vaio who further increased Juve's lead ten minutes after stepping on to the field with a fierce angled drive.

Alessandro Del Piero was on the pitch for 60 seconds when he gathered Di Vaio's pass with his right foot and turned in with his left past the helpless Greek goalkeeper.

The Turin crowd was small, but they were kept entertained as Marcelo Zalayeta bagged the seventh of the match. The Uruguayan hitman leapt on to a Maresca corner kick for a strong header.

Juventus: Chimenti; Birindelli, Montero, Iuliano (Zambrotta 82), Pessotto; Conte, Tudor, Maresca, Zalayeta; Trezeguet (Di Vaio 59), Miccoli (Del Piero 66)

Olympiakos: Eleftheropulos; Venedetis, Kostoulas, Anatolakis (Georgiadis 69), Pantos; Djordjevic, Kafes (Gonias 61), Karembeu, Mavrogenidis; Castillo, Giovanni (Niniadis 77)

Ref: Plautz (Aus)

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/eurogames/juve-oly.html

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 11:42 AM

Hope the Seven goals silence some Juve critics :D

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 11:43 AM

Marcello Lippi maintains that tonight’s 7-0 drubbing of Olympiakos will improve Juve’s Serie A form.

“Above all what we wanted was a morale boost after a very strange week,” noted the Coach.

The Bianconeri were coming off three consecutive defeats, including a 2-0 setback against Galatasaray.

“I got the idea that had we scored a couple of the many chances we had at Galatasaray last week then it would have ended the same way.”

“The lads reacted to the recent events and although they were a little tense to begin with it all went well.”

There was a worrying moment for the squad, as David Trezeguet was stretchered off with a suspected sprained ankle.

“It is a great shame that the evening was marred by the injury,” sighed Lippi. “The ankle is a little swollen and we cannot judge the extent of the problem for a couple of days, but he is without doubt out of Sunday’s game with Parma.”

Juventus needed a single point to be certain of topping their Group and achieved that aim in some style.

“Tonight we had to get that point to top the Group and get back on track psychologically with a good win.”

Last year’s beaten Finalists are now top seeds for Friday’s draw, but Lippi refused to mark an opponent to avoid.

“I honestly have not thought about the next phase yet. I did pay attention to the fact Real Madrid, Arsenal and Manchester United topped their Groups and are therefore not going to be facing us.”

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec10j.html

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 01:29 PM

Reuters
Wednesday December 10, 2003 11:11 PM

(Adds detail)

TURIN, Italy, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Juventus set a new Champions League record with a 7-0 victory over Olympiakos on Wednesday that assured them top spot in Group D.

The result was the biggest winning margin in Champions League history and means the Greeks finish bottom of the group and fail to qualify for the consolation spot in the UEFA Cup.

Juve had already qualified for the second phase but after three straight defeats in Serie A and Europe they showed no mercy as they ripped apart a woeful Greek defence.

After Serbian striker Predrag Djordjevic had forced a save out of Juve keeper Antonio Chimenti in the 10th minute, last season's Champions League runners-up took control.

David Trezeguet put them ahead in the 14th minute with a simple tap-in after being set up by midfielder Enzo Maresca.

Five minutes later, Fabrizio Miccoli worked some space for himself inside the area and fired a low, left-foot shot past Dimitris Eleftheropoulos to make it 2-0.

A straightforward counter-attack provided the third with Maresca releasing Miccoli who slipped the ball into the path of Trezeguet who converted another straightforward chance.

It was 4-0 in the 28th minute with once again the Olympiakos defence being opened up with unnerving ease.

A long ball forward from Igor Tudor found Miccoli on the left flank and his shot was parried out by Eleftheropoulos but Maresca crashed home the loose ball.

Straight after the break, Trezeguet went close to a hat-trick with a header while at the other end, Neri Castillo wasted a rare chance for Olympiakos, firing over the bar from a tight angle after he had rounded Chimenti.

MORE TROUBLE

But Juve were in no mood to settle for 4-0 and the outstanding Miccoli was unlucky not to have a second goal when his shot hit the far post, rolled across the line and came out off the other upright.

Trezeguet was injured in his attempt to convert the rebound but the arrival of Marco Di Vaio in his place merely meant more trouble for the hapless Greek defence.

The Italy international made it 5-0 with a first-time strike in the 62nd minute and then he set up fellow substitute Alessandro Del Piero to make it six from 10 metres out just moments after replacing Miccoli.

The only striker who had not found the target was Uruguayan Marcelo Zalayeta and he put that right with a firm header from a Maresca corner in the 79th minute.

To add just an extra touch of bitterness to the humiliation for the Olympiakos, their striker Castillo had an effort disallowed for offside in the 89th minute.

The result also equals Juve's record win in the European Cup, matching their 7-0 victory over Valur Reykjavik during the 1986/87 season.

http://football.guardian.co.uk/breakingnews/story/0,1273,-3489653,00.html

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 01:32 PM

"Juventus set a new Champions League record with a 7-0 victory over Olympiakos on Wednesday that assured them top spot in Group D.

The result was the biggest winning margin in Champions League history"

:D

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 01:33 PM

TURIN, Italy, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Italian champions Juventus proved any talk of them fading away was premature with a Champions League record 7-0 drubbing of Olympiakos on Wednesday.

The Italian media had begun to talk of a "crisis" for Marcello Lippi's side after they lost three games in a week.

But after securing top spot in Group D with the biggest victory in Champions League history, Lippi said his players had given themselves the lift they required.

ADVERTISEMENT

"We needed to get a point to be certain of first place and now we can start thinking about the (Italian) league," he said.

"It was an important result from a psychological point of view. It provides an injection of faith that the team needed after the past week," Lippi added.

After losing 3-1 at home to Inter Milan in Serie A, Juve suffered a 2-0 defeat by Galatasaray in a rescheduled Champions League game in Dortmund and were then beaten by Lazio in the Italian league on Saturday.

"Looking back, if we had taken our chances in Dortmund it could have finished like this. The players showed they are in good shape, we were tight and sharp right from the start," said Lippi.

Midfielder Antonio Conte said the win had swept away any self-doubt the team might have had.

"It's been a long time since we lost three games in a row, we produced a great performance, very concentrated and very positive," he said.

"I think in these situations a lot is in your head rather than being a physical problems. Once we got ahead we played with freedom," he added.

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 01:37 PM

From honours to critics to honours again in ten days: Juventus is back to receive good reviews after the 7-0 against Olympiakos.

“If we are reborn? – Di Vaio explains – It’s an exaggeration, as the critics were. We’re the same of two weeks ago: simply, today everything went the wrong way, not like the last matches. Today we played very well and we went back to scoring. We knew we had received many critics and tonight we wanted to reply to this bad moment on the pitch: we’re happy we’ve succeeded. It’s not an answer to the critics: we only care about the way we play”.

http://www.juventus.it/juventus/en/images/200350/11304divaio.jpg

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 01:40 PM

Chelsea are in hot pursuit of Juventus' Czech midfielder Pavel Nedved according to the player's agent.

Zdenek Nehoda told The Sun that the wealthy west Londoners are tracking Nedved after advice from England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson.

The newspaper reports that the club are prepared to pay £25m for the player.

"Juventus' director general Luciano Moggi told me Chelsea want Pavel and although the answer has been no, they simply won't go away," he said.

"The desire to have him is very strong and apparently Eriksson keeps on advising [Chelsea's Russian billionaire owner] Roman Abramovich that Pavel is vital."

Eriksson has been consistently linked with the manager's job at Stamford Bridge ever since he was photographed visiting Abramovich's London residence with top soccer agent Pini Zahavi.

The rumours have been quietened by the success of current coach Claudio Ranieri, who has led Chelsea to the top of the Barclaycard Premiership and into the last 16 of the Champions League.

Nedved played under Eriksson at Lazio and was identified by the Swede as one of six key players who could most hurt England's chances of success at Euro 2004.

"It is clear why Eriksson would say this because he knows Pavel very well. And how is Nedved playing at Juventus? Not well - brilliantly.

"Pavel has a contract until 2006 and intends to respect it but everything can change so quickly in football.

"It is true that before Chelsea came in for Pavel, Juventus did make a tentative offer to bring forward contract extension talks but Pavel said no and continues to feel the same way."

http://www.sportinglife.com/pictures/general/allsportnedvedsolskjaer.jpg

demouse

11-12-2003, 02:19 PM

Originally posted by demouse

a win or thrash at homa against olympiakos will be on time to boost their morale before the match against parma. after all, they're juventus.

brother i jun bo :D

onetailed

11-12-2003, 03:11 PM

remarkable display by juventus.

really good timing to silence its critics!

well done!

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 05:27 PM

Originally posted by demouse

brother i jun bo :D

yah...predict more of "this" next time..:D

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 05:27 PM

Originally posted by onetailed
remarkable display by juventus.

really good timing to silence its critics!

well done!

FORZA JUVEEEEEEEEEEE!!! :D

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 05:54 PM

Maresca is our Man of the Match for the CL match last night...promising player just like Di Vaio...

i heard Miccoli is awesome too...another potential..:)

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 05:57 PM

Wednesday, 10 December 2003

By Graham Hunter at the Stadio Delle Alpi

Juventus FC stamped their authority on Group D with a devastating, record-breaking victory against Olympiacos CFP which saw last season's beaten finalists qualify for Friday's draw for the knockout stages as section winners.

Magic Maresca
Among a handful of outstanding performers, it was the individual brilliance of Enzo Maresca which lit up the night. The 23-year-old had a hand in each of the Italian side's four unanswered first-half goals and changed wings midway through that period playing with equal ease on his left and right foot.

Record broken
Second-half substitutes Marco Di Vaio and Alessandro Del Piero then added further goals before the seventh from Marcelo Zalayeta ensured Juventus had set a new record for the biggest winning margin in the UEFA Champions League.

Ironic note
The ironic note was that Oleh Protasov's team had started with real threat before being deluged with goals. Within moments of the opening Predrag Djordjevic clipped a free-kick on to the roof of the net. And in the ninth minute he played a one-two with Giovanni and then Nery Alberto Castillo before finding himself one-on-one against Juventus goalkeeper Antonio Chimenti, who was able to touch the ball clear.

All Juve
From then on, inspired by Maresca, it was all Juve. In the 14th minute the diminutive midfield player instigated a one-two with Gianluca Pessotto before squaring across the face of the goal for David Trezeguet to score. Five minutes later Trezeguet returned the compliment, allowing Maresca to shoot. The deflection off Athanasios Kostoulas landed perfectly for Fabrizio Miccoli to crack a left-foot drive past Dimitrios Eleftheropolous.

Landmark goal
The Maresca masterclass continued when he turned in midfield and waited for a brilliant cross-over run between Trezeguet and Miccoli before releasing a perfect pass for the Italian. Clear through on goal, Miccoli squared for Trezeguet who scored easily with his left foot - a fitting way to bring up the 3,000th goal since the Champions League's inception.

Shape lost
Olympiacos had lost shape and were effectively chasing shadows when Maresca made it 4-0 in the 28th minute. Igor Tudor struck a right-footed 40-metre pass to Miccoli who had broken the offside trap again, and when his shot was saved Maresca powered in a left-foot volley to complete the first-half scoring. The only Juve player whose touch was lacking was Zalayeta, who most notably missed a free header at the far post following neat play between Maresca and Alessandro Birindelli.

Chances missed
Spurred on by the fact that they had lost three consecutive games for the first time in 12 seasons, Juventus never reduced the pressure in the second half. Trezeguet missed two point-blank chances for his hat-trick within the first nine minutes of the half before the most remarkable incident of the entire game.

Trezeguet denied
Antonio Conte's 50-metre volleyed pass found Miccoli in the penalty box and he rounded the goalkeeper. His shot struck the far post, rolled along the line, hit the near post and fell to Trezeguet, who missed another open goal before the goalkeeper stood up and collided with the Frenchman.

Rout complete
After the unusual sequence of events the striker was carried off on a stretcher. Finally, Juventus added more goals when Miccoli spotted the run of Di Vaio, who scored with a powerful shot. Then, from Di Vaio’s cross in the 67th minute, fellow replacement Del Piero controlled and scored with his first two touches on the pitch. The rout was complete with 12 minutes left when Zalayeta finally scored with a header from Maresca's corner.

http://www.uefa.com/competitions/UCL/fixturesresults/round=1712/match=1056883/Report=RP.html

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 09:52 PM

He deserved it!! :)

Juventus midfielder Pavel Nedved has been named World Player of the Year by readers of the magazine World Soccer.

The 31-year-old Czech had more than a third of the votes in the annual poll.

Nedved pipped Manchester United's Ducth striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, with Real Madrid marksman Raul, of Spain, finishing in third place.

Arsenal's French international Thierry Henry, who is widely tipped to win Fifa's World Player of the Award next week, finished down in fifth.

Nedved helped Juventus to retain the Italian league title last year and steered his side to the Champions League final, where they lost to AC Milan.

He was linked on Thursday with a move to Chelsea.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/3310291.stm

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 09:58 PM

In our last two Serie A outings we've suffered reversals against Inter and Lazio and find ourselves four points adrift of joint leaders Milan and Roma. Come Sunday Juve will be given a chance to redeem themselves and prove something to the critics and the fans as they face Parma in the Delle Alpi.

The visitors will be without Adriano, but can rely on an in-form Gilardino who won a penalty and scored twice last weekend. Juve on the other hand should have everybody available for this encounter and will most likely field the red hot Marco Di Vaio alongside captain Alex Del Piero in attack. Marcello Lippi may also be tempted to move Thuram to centre back and give Birindelli a chance at right back.

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 10:00 PM

I hope Lippi can stay with us as long as he he can!! :)

Didier Deschamps has moved to cool the speculation that suggests he will become the next Juventus boss.

"I’m aware of what has been written but things have been misinterpreted," said the Monaco boss.

"Therefore I won’t comment on it again this season for my peace of mind and that of my squad."

The former Juventus midfielder did admit this week that he would be tempted to take over in Turin once Marcello Lippi left the club.

Rumours suggested that could happen as soon as next summer if Lippi replaced Italy boss Giovanni Trapattoni after Euro 2004.

"Didier will return to Turin," the legendary Michel Platini told L’Equipe. "But it won’t be for a few years yet.

"I don’t think that Juventus would make a move for a tactician, if they need to, who hasn’t great experience.

"However, I’m certain that Didier has the right profile to one day be the Coach of a club like that one."

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec11c.html

dreamer75

11-12-2003, 10:03 PM

Juventus-Parma

Live on British Eurosport (Kick-off 2pm UK time)
Stadio Delle Alpi

Juventus are facing a crisis after two consecutive Serie A defeats and could slide further down the standings with a tough test against their old rivals.

These two clubs clashed repeatedly during the 1990’s for the Scudetto, UEFA Cup and Coppa Italia. The Gialloblu’s most famous victory was a 4-2 result at the Delle Alpi that forced Marcello Lippi to resign. Visiting fans will be hopeful of a repeat showing, as Juve have really struggled against the other title contenders.

So far the reigning Champions have gathered just two points in their four encounters with the other top six teams. Milan and Roma earned draws, while Inter and Lazio were able to pick up precious victories. Parma are the final members of the so-called ‘Sei Sorelle’ – Six Sisters of Serie A.

Cesare Prandelli’s men have plenty of reason to be confident going to Turin, as their away form so far has been very impressive with three wins, two draws and two defeats. Many pundits believed their would struggle in the absence of Adriano, but Under-21 international Alberto Gilardino has filled in admirably for the giant Brazilian. Gilardino, a transfer target for Juventus, has bagged five Serie A goals including a brace at Lecce last week.

The Bianconeri may be forced to shelve their squad rotation and put the on form Marco Di Vaio back in the starting eleven. Alessandro Del Piero is struggling to recover from six weeks out with a calf strain, while David Trezeguet, Mauro Camoranesi and Pavel Nedved are also not performing to their usual standards. Fabrizio Miccoli and Enzo Maresca are on the bench ready to step in, although Marcello Lippi seems intent on keeping faith with his top stars.

Juventus (probable): Buffon; Thuram, Ferrara, Legrottaglie, Zambrotta; Conte, Tacchinardi, Davids; Nedved; Trezeguet, Del Piero

Parma (probable) : Frey; Bonera, Castellini, Ferrari, Junior; Barone, Donadel; Marchionni, Morfeo, Bresciano; Gilardino

Ref: To folllow

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/sa0304/juv-par.html

RuMmYtUb

12-12-2003, 12:33 AM

Juve to nick it 2-0 :D

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 09:54 AM

Here's the probable line-up:

4-3-1-2
Buffon
Birindelli Ferrara Legrottaglie Zambrotta
Conte Tacchinardi Davids
Nedved
Di Vaio Del Piero

Injured players: Trezeguet, Thuram.
Suspended players: None.

DV + DP looks interesting...:)

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 03:18 PM

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Juve to nick it 2-0 :D

i predict a 2-1 win for us :)

Forza Juve!

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 03:28 PM

he's just aren't gd enuff for Serie A...wat a waste..

By Trevor Huggins

LONDON, Dec 12 (Reuters) - Thierry Henry stands to complete a remarkable transformation next week if he goes from a bit part at Juventus to FIFA's World Player of the Year with Arsenal.

The 26-year-old striker has certainly become familiar with accolades, after winning both the player awards available from English football last season.

He is now in contention for FIFA's Player of the Year along with France team mate Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo of Real Madrid. The winner will be announced on Monday.

Yet Henry's high-profile rise in the world game follows a period in the wilderness when few would have backed the youngster from the Paris suburbs.

Henry had been marked out for the elite from his early teens, joining up with France's national football institute at Clairefontaine and the club academy of Monaco where, for the first time, he caught the eye of coach Arsene Wenger.

Henry made his Monaco debut two weeks after his 17th birthday and within two years had become a first-team regular, helping the side to win the first division title in 1997 -- the year he also won his first senior cap for France.

The momentum continued as Henry picked up a 1998 World Cup winners' medal and in January 1999, after joining mighty Juventus, his ascension appeared unstoppable.

However, things soon began to unravel in Turin, where France's hottest property became a mere squad player, consigned to an isolated role sprinting up and down the left touchline.

ARSENAL MOVE

He made only 16 appearances in all, scoring three times, and the experience fell well short of his expectations. When Wenger moved in for Henry in the summer of 1999, there were no obstacles from either the player or his Italian club.

Wenger had plans for Henry.

Arsenal's Double-winning manager believed that with enough work on the training ground, Henry had the talent to switch from the wing to a central striking role.

He would have to get used to playing with his back to goal and improve his finishing but Wenger believed both problems could be ironed out by long hours on the practice pitches of Hertfordshire.

It was a difficult learning curve for both Henry and the Arsenal fans who lost patience with a striker who could not score. Two goals in nearly four months was not a statistic to endear someone on premier league wages to Highbury's North Bank.

Then suddenly, Henry came good.

He finished with an impressive 26 goals for the season, helped France to win Euro 2000 seven weeks later and has not looked back since. His lightning pace and sublime first touch guided Arsenal to the Double in 2002, when was also the premier league's top marksman.

More than just a goalscorer, Henry's claim to the World Player prize is also as a goalmaker. Last season, in which Arsenal retained their FA Cup but surrendered the league title to Manchester United, Henry was the league's second top scorer with 24 goals. But he was also top of the goal-assist list with 23.

Both skills were on display in last month's 5-1 demolition of Inter Milan at San Siro, where Henry scored two and made two of Arsenal's goals in a victory which English football will remember for years.

Henry has long recognised his debt to Wenger, telling France Football magazine earlier this year: "In every match, I try to repay all the things he's given me.

"He was the one who launched my pro career at Monaco and he was the one who then re-launched it at Arsenal, holding out a hand to me when I was feeling down."

In January 1996, another former Monaco protege George Weah collected the World Player of the Year award and called Wenger onstage, telling the audience: "I can't pay for what he gave me."

On Monday, Henry could follow in Weah's footsteps in more ways than one.

http://sports.yahoo.com/sow/news?slug=reu-playerhenry&prov=reuters&type=lgns

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 03:49 PM

i hope he's lying...

Wednesday 10 December, 2003

Juventus transfer guru Luciano Moggi insists that his club will not bring in any new faces in January.

The Bianconeri have been heavily linked with the Lazio trio of Dejan Stankovic, Jaap Stam and Massimo Oddo but Moggi claims they won’t arrive.

"Up until two weeks ago everyone was saying that we had the best squad in the Division," he stated. "We have 26 players and we don’t need any more."

The Italian champions were being tipped to make some move in the transfer window after consecutive defeats against Inter, Galatasaray and Lazio.

"I admit that this isn’t a great period for us but we will get through it," added the director general. "Losing two League games is not the end of the world."

Critics have blamed Juventus’ leaky defence and poor athletic condition for their recent crisis but Moggi is not looking for culprits.

"Nobody is to blame," continued the official. "All sides go through good and bad spells. This is one of the latter but I’m convinced we can pick ourselves up.

"We’ve had a drop in our fitness levels but that often occurs at this time of the year with us. We know what to do."

History certainly suggests that Moggi is right. Last season, Juventus lost consecutive games against Brescia and Lazio – gaining just two points in four matches. They went on to win the title.

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 03:50 PM

i just feel that no matter which competition you play in, a solid defence is neccessary. Serie A, its the key, although you may get away with it as long as you draw with the big teams and make sure you score more against the lower teams, as juve has done the past few seasons.

But the CL is more so. Real Madrid are the prime example last season. who can better zz, figo, raul, ronaldo, carlos in team?? they can score 5 goals a game without even trying. but their defence leaked more than the Titanic when it hit the ice berg. they suffered and were over-run.

and i dont think our defence has been good all season. infact, last season it was a concern as well. everyone knew that ferrara was getting slower and that montero was looking more of a liability than anything else. Legrottaglie wasnt going to change anything.

we can play with a brazilian mentality scoring more goals than the other team, but that doesnt win you things such as a CL. you need solidarity at the back, without it, teams such as Real, united, milan, chelsea and even arsenal can hurt you.

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 03:53 PM

12/11/2003. Tests this afternoon have revealed that David Trezeguet only has a light distortion to the ankle, and will not be out for 40 days as first thought.

The Frenchman was stretchered off in the 7-0 thrashing of Olympiakos last night.

He will miss the remaining games before Christmas, but should be ready for the January 6 match with Perugia.
SA

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 03:55 PM

both Dortmund and Stuttgart are in serious debt and will sell their stars

Thomas Rosicky

Aliaksandr Hleb

i think we should really pounce on either of these two as a worthy replacement for Nedved in two seasons time. we could buy them now and still play either of them

i would go for Hleb, but since Czech Rep. is becoming a member of the EU soon i think, than Rosicky will be fine. But i dont see the harm in gettin rid of Salas and Zalayeta and gettin Hleb and a S. american startlet

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 04:07 PM

gd way to stop smoking Lippi...keekeke..

uefa.com

Smoking banned in technical area
Thursday, 11 December 2003
UEFA is to introduce a ban on smoking in the technical area at all UEFA competition matches from the start of next season.

Improving football’s image
The move, designed to improve football's image, particularly with young people, was approved by UEFA’s Executive Committee at its two-day meeting at the House of European Football in Nyon, Switzerland.

Unhealthy practice
UEFA’s technical development committee, comprising eminent members of the European coaching sector, had proposed the ban on smoking, which is considered as an unhealthy practice which can have a damaging impact. Sanctions could also be imposed on anyone found to be ignoring the ban.

Coach’s risk
“A coach risks to be sent into the dressing room, or other penalties imposed under the UEFA list of sanctions,” said UEFA Chief Executive Gerhard Aigner in announcing the ban. Referees and fourth officials will be urged to contribute to the application of the ban.

“No longer acceptable”
“In the present climate, it is no longer acceptable that we have smoking on the bench when smoking is being banned in so many places, and when we know that smoking damages health,” Mr Aigner added. “There are players sitting on the bench, and I think it is right and proper that UEFA stops any person from smoking there.” UEFA has also been working in partnership with the European Commission to promote a no-smoking campaign.

EURO preparations
During its two-day discussions, the Executive Committee heard a positive report from UEFA officials on the state of preparations for UEFA EURO 2004™ in Portugal, where work to have the infrastructures ready for next summer’s final round are continuing at full speed. It also named Germany as the hosts of next year’s UEFA European Under-21 Championship final round, and Poland as the hosts of the UEFA European Under-19 Championship final round in 2006.

Celtic Fair Play proposal
In addition, the committee agreed to nominate fans of the Scottish club Celtic FC for the 2003 FIFA Fair Play Award, which will be announced shortly. “We were all impressed with the behaviour of the Celtic fans at the UEFA Cup final against Porto FC in Seville,” said UEFA vice-president Senes Erzik, who chaired the meeting in the absence of UEFA President Lennart Johansson. “They were there in their thousands, and caused not a single incident during the whole week. The image they showed to the whole world was unique and fascinating.” Celtic fans have already won UEFA’s fair play award for their conduct at the match.

EU campaign
The committee also discussed the latest stage of the lobbying campaign with the European political authorities for sport’s specific nature and autonomy to be anchored in the future European Union Treaty, and agreed to start preparations for the tendering process to choose a marketing agency for the sale of UEFA Champions League television and sponsorship rights for 2006 to 2009.

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 07:37 PM

We are drawn against Deportivo La Coruna in the CL 2nd Round..

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 07:58 PM

not a very gd draw...as we faced them last 2 seasons too..

19 feb 02: Juventus - Deportivo La Coruna 0-0
27 feb 02: Deportivo La Coruna - Juventus 2-0

BUT in 2003...we tied them 2-2 with a beautiful Birinelli goal and then we beat them 3-2 with a last gasp Tudor volly..

RuMmYtUb

12-12-2003, 08:21 PM

Trick tricky.... Depor still a very gd team w/o the services of Dutch ace Makaay..

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 10:23 PM

The Gazzetta dello Sport has today claimed that Pavel Nedved will be awarded with the 2003 Golden Ball.

Despite the fact that the official results won’t be known until December 22, the newspaper maintains that the Czech ace will be rewarded for his magnificent form of the past year.

Nedved will allegedly be named as the European Footballer of the Year ahead of Arsenal star Thierry Henry and third placed Paolo Maldini of Milan.

The 31-year-old is in his third season with Juventus after a highly successful spell at Lazio.

In the past 12 months he has won the Scudetto, helped his side reach the Champions’ League Final and aided the Czech Republic qualify automatically for Euro 2004.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec12e.html

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 10:25 PM

Gazzetta dello Sport has inside news :confused:

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 10:27 PM

he's great!!

Fabrizio Miccoli believes he’s done enough in the past three months to illustrate that he deserves to be at Juventus.

The 23-year-old arrived at the Stadio Delle Alpi this summer and he has settled in relatively well.

"I would say that I’ve done OK so far," he said. "Yet the only thing that interests me is that I have shown that I deserve to be part of this squad of champions."

Miccoli was signed by Juventus two years ago but was immediately loaned out to Perugia last season where he excelled.

Competition for places in Turin is high but he has impressed when given the chance, like on Wednesday in the record 7-0 win against Olympiakos.

"I scored and hit the post," he said. "Though it was just important that we won after the three defeats.

"It was a win that will help to improve morale and will allow us to go into the Parma game even more convinced of our abilities.

"We’ll see on Sunday whether we really have got through this difficult moment for us."

Miccoli himself may start against the Gialloblu with David Trezeguet struggling with an ankle injury.

"I’m in good shape and I hope that continues," he added. "I just look to be ready when the Coach feels that he needs me."

Meanwhile, Pavel Nedved returned to training on Thursday after a bout of flu. He could return to the side at the weekend.

Defender Lilian Thuram is struggling with fitness though. Some reports suggest he won’t be back until the New Year.

dreamer75

12-12-2003, 10:28 PM

Juventus have been drawn against Deportivo La Coruna in the Second Round of the Champions’ League. While Milan will face Sparta Prague.

The Italian champions will renew their rivalry with the Spanish side after their battles in last season’s tournament.

Juventus, who convincingly won their group, have arguably drawn one of the most difficult sides possible after the La Liga outfit qualified behind Monaco in the group phases.

The draw has been much kinder to European champions Milan who will play Sparta Prague.

Although the Czech side did eliminate Lazio in the first stage, the Rossoneri will be confident of reaching the quarter-finals.

The tie of the round is definitely Bayern Munich against Real Madrid. While Chelsea face a difficult task against German League leaders Stuttgart.

First leg matches will take place on February 24 and 25. Return games are scheduled for March 9 and 10.

Full draw
Stuttgart – Chelsea
Porto – Man Utd
Real Sociedad – Lyon
Celta Vigo – Arsenal
Bayern Munich – Real Madrid
Sparta Prague – Milan
Dep La Coruna – Juventus
Lokomotiv Moscow – Monaco

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec12f.html

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 02:28 AM

According to the latest training sessions, Lippi seems to have changed tactics as well as players expected to start the Parma match.

Lippi played with an unusual (3-4-1-2) formation in training.

The 3 central defender roles were assigned to: Iuliano (right), Ferrara (center), and Montero (left) with no place for Legrottaglie who is expected to warm the bench instead.

Zambrotta and Birindelli were given more attacking assignments on the left and right flanks respectively.

Central midfield consists of Tacchinardi and European-hero Maresca who looks like enjoying a fine form. Appiah and Davids are both - surprisingly - expected to sit out the match.

Nedved was back to training and is expected to be fully fit to face Parma tomorrow after recovering from the flu.

Upfront would be the dangerous duo of Di Vaio and Miccoli, with Del Piero relegated to the bench as the captain clearly needs more time to get back to his best levels. A second half appearance is expected for him.

Other players to make the bench are: Chimenti, Pessotto, Conte, Camoranesi, and Zalayeta.

In the press conference leading to the match Lippi has pinpointed the following Parma players as danger men: Gilardino, Morfeo, Marchionni and Bresciano.

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 02:45 AM

Juventus will face Deportivo La Coruna for the fourth year on the trot and Igor Tudor hopes to repeat his stunning winner from last season.

“I think that of the seven potential opponents perhaps we picked the most dangerous,” sighed the Croatian international.

His last-gasp volley in last season’s Group phase assured Juve of a 3-2 victory in Turin and passage to the next round.

“Right now the Spanish side is stronger than Bayern Munich, so this is worst draw we could have possibly had.”

On their way to the Final last May, the Bianconeri had a good run against the Spaniards by beating Deportivo, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

“This is a difficult draw,” added teammate Ciro Ferrara, “and it will be in the balance until the last minute.”

Worryingly, Juventus have never won at the Riazor Stadium, gathering just two draws and a defeat.

Last season Marcello Lippi’s men fought back from 2-0 down to earn a 2-2 result thanks to Alessandro Birindelli’s screamer.

“All the Spanish sides play good football,” assured Birindelli, “and Depor proved that last year. We must have the same determination and concentration that allowed us to overturn that 2-0 deficit and win the second leg.”

Deportivo tactician Javier Irureta also laughed at this bizarre coincidence of facing the same team for four years running.

“We know Juventus well. After all, we play them every season in the Champions’ League. It’ll be a tough tie and we must ensure a solid lead from the first leg in Spain.”

Feb 24/Mar 10

Sparta Prague-Milan

Lokomotiv Moscow–Monaco

Celta Vigo–Arsenal

Bayern Munich-Real Madrid

Feb 25/Mar 11

Deportivo La Coruna-Juventus

Stuttgart-Chelsea

Porto-Manchester Utd

Real Sociedad-Lyon

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 02:46 AM

Pavel Nedved admits he is battling against flu symptoms to face Parma and comments on his probable Balon d’Or victory.

“I don’t feel terribly well,” confessed the Juventus hero at a charity event, “but I will do everything I can to be ready for Sunday afternoon.”

The Bianconeri are already dealing with David Trezeguet’s sprained ankle, while Lilian Thuram may be forced to rest a bruised foot until the New Year.

“I have been unable to train properly over the last few days,” added Nedved, “but the decision is up to the Coach.”

It is likely he will recover in time to take on Parma at the Stadio Delle Alpi in what has become a crucial match for their Scudetto campaign.

However, the former Lazio star is in the headlines for winning the World Soccer Award and reportedly zooming out in front for the Balon d’Or.

“Any award voted by the fans is a source of great pride for me. I love the supporters and I am so glad to hear they respect me back.”

“I would become the first Czech to win the Balon d’Or in 41 years,” he added, “and I certainly would be very happy if it was true.”

The trophy, voted by readers of France Football, will be announced on December 22 and Nedved earned it by winning the Scudetto, taking the Czech Republic to Euro 2004 and reaching the Champions’ League Final.

But he admits there is one very black mark on this stunning season for the 31-year-old.

“I won’t watch Milan play against Boca Juniors for the Intercontinental Cup on Sunday,” revealed Nedved. “I wanted to be out there playing for Juventus as the Champions of Europe.

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 02:51 PM

let's see how we perform w/o the rotation system..

Marcello Lippi has called an end to the rotation system and claims only the players on top form will play against Parma this afternoon.

“From now on only those who are at the top of their game will play,” warned the Juventus Coach.

The first man to make way will be captain Alessandro Del Piero, who is taking his time to fully recover from a calf strain.

Marco Di Vaio, Fabrizio Miccoli and Enzo Maresca should start against the Gialloblu after their fine performances in the 7-0 demolition of Olympiakos midweek.

“I can no longer keep my promise of letting everyone play one of every two games. After the Lazio defeat I decided to change my ways and field only those who were on form and that will be my policy from now on.”

The tactician had defended the rotation system despite criticism from the press, but that Champions’ League performance changed his mind on the issue.

“We have some players who really are doing well right now,” he explained, “and it would be a shame not to take advantage of that. Above all Maresca can give something very important to the team.”

The former Piacenza midfielder was Man of the Match against Olympiakos as he scored one and had a hand in four of the other goals.

David Trezeguet and Lilian Thuram are out until the New Year with ankle injuries, so Juve may adapt to a three-man defence with Mark Iuliano, Ciro Ferrara and Paolo Montero.

Gianluca Zambrotta would be returned to his more advanced role on the left flank while Pavel Nedved supports Italian internationals Di Vaio and Miccoli.

“Parma have an excellent squad packed with promising young players,” assured Lippi, “and they like to take advantage of every gap on the field.”

The Gialloblu have won here only once, a 4-2 result that forced Lippi to resign in 1999, but he is hoping the visitors are superstitious.

“Parma should fear us,” he joked. “After all, the three teams that beat us recently – Inter, Lazio and Galatasaray – were all knocked out of the Champions’ League.”

Pavel Nedved will be in doubt until the last minute after suffering from a bout of flu, but the Czech star has picked up another award.

Croatian magazine ‘Sportske Novosti’ voted him Player of the Year with almost double the number of points earned by runner-up Paolo Maldini.

Juventus (probable): Buffon; Iuliano, Ferrara, Montero; Birindelli, Maresca, Tacchinardi, Zambrotta; Nedved; Di Vaio, Miccoli

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 02:56 PM

hope he will repay us by giving better performance...

Mauro German Camoranesi has reportedly put pen to paper on a new deal tying him to Juventus until 2007.

The Argentine-born winger had been at the centre of a long-running row over his wages compared to the rest of the Bianconeri squad.

However, after months of wrangling which at one stage saw him publicly told to find another club by Director General Luciano Moggi, an agreement has been reached.

It is claimed that the Italian international has doubled his salary to just under £1m per season.

The 27-year-old had been of interest to Inter and several European sides, but opted to stay with the Italian Champions.

Moggi can now dedicate his time to working through a new contract for David Trezeguet, whose current deal expires in the summer of 2005.

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 03:01 PM

December 14, 2003

Juventus GM Luciano Moggi is pressing for Lucio to quit Bayer Leverkusen in January.

Juve's poor defensive record and concerns over Paolo Montero and Nicola Legrottaglie has convinced Moggi that he needs to sign Lucio now, rather than wait until the end of the season.

The Brazilian is also being chased by Chelsea and has declared he wants to stay with Bayer until the end of the season.

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 10:59 PM

Juve leading Parma 2-0 at HT

Juventus 2 - 0 Parma
10' [1 - 0] Fabrizio Miccoli
32' [2 - 0] Fabrizio Miccoli

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 11:00 PM

oh... in case you want to know, the formation's

Buffon
Birri, Iuliano, Ferarra (c), Zambro
Montero,Tacchi, Maresca
Nedved
DV, Micoli

So..... no Davids, no Appiah, no Camo

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 11:01 PM

Nedved broke through the right wing passing two players, and cut the ball in for Miccoli who recieved it and shot with his left foot into Frey's left corner for Juve's 1st goal...:rolleyes:

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 11:04 PM

As for the second, Micco got a great pass at the edge of box from maresca, let it go in the box and scored with a nice, placed shot from the left side of the box into Fray's left corner just before Bonera and ferrari had time to slid in. :rolleyes:

dreamer75

14-12-2003, 11:09 PM

wow, classic juve! 2 efforts and 2 goals by fabrizio miccoli. first thing that came to my mind was del piero- the guy better get in form, we have miccoli waiting in line! :D

i really like this formation!
with this squad and to lead 2-0 against parma is really cool, imagine us making substitutes for the likes of camo, appiah or davids.. or del piero.. we're really a complete squad ..

but of course, i still think the defence is in need of an improvement. parma is not playing all that bad but not all that well either. morfeo, gilardino and marchionni are the ones to watch. bresciano isn't really threatening on the left side.

zambro's crosses has not been sharp, though, but that's nothing. i'm sure he'll do better in the second half. pavel still is breath taking to watch, miccoli's finishes are excellent, maresca has been quieter than i'd liked but he's done well.

FORZA JUVE!!

alexis10

15-12-2003, 12:00 AM

Juve 4-0

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 12:05 AM

Originally posted by alexis10
Juve 4-0

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

yes!! we beat them in style :D

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 12:08 AM

3rd goal by Juve! Goal by DP...great assist by Maresca.

DP always does better when he starts off from the bench...maybe that should be a hint for Lippi :)

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 12:10 AM

4th Juve goal...World-class assist by Del Piero. DP turned Cannavaro inside out and found Nedved with a great pass.

A goal by Neddy and an assist by DP...fantastic strike with his left foot!! :bounce:

alexis10

15-12-2003, 12:14 AM

fantastic strike with his left foot \

As usual... hope he get the award on the 22th....

:D

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 12:14 AM

Juventus 4 - 0 Parma
Miccoli 10, 31 (J), Del Piero 70 (J), Nedved 72 (J)
Stadio Delle Alpi

Juventus prove they are over their recent crisis by thrashing Parma 4-0 with Fabrizio Miccoli the star of the show.

Juve got back on track midweek with a 7-0 Champions' League win over Olympiakos, but needed to restore their Serie A form after two consecutive defeats.

That European performance was enough to ensure Enzo Maresca, Fabrizio Miccoli and ex-Parma hero Marco Di Vaio earned first team shirts at the expense of Mauro Camoranesi and Alessandro Del Piero.

David Trezeguet and Lilian Thuram are out with ankle injuries, so Juventus adapted to a three-man defence.

Parma have done well despite Adriano's absence and Alberto Gilardino was on fine form following his brace at Lecce last week.

The Gialloblu have won here only once, a 4-2 result in 1999 that forced Marcello Lippi to resign.

It took just ten minutes for Lippi's choices to pay off, as Miccoli broke the deadlock. Pavel Nedved charged down the right flank and cut back for Miccoli's low drive at the near post.

The Czech international was a risk for this game as he has been suffering with flu this week, but his fierce effort forced Sebastien Frey into a difficult save.

Miccoli made it two when he sprung the offside trap on a lifted Maresca pass, then placed a powerful and precise angled drive past Frey.

There was more bad news for Parma when Daniele Bonera, who has been tipped for a move to Turin next season, limped off with an injury before half-time.

Gilardino tried to get them back into it, but his turn and volley was well controlled by Gianluigi Buffon.

Miccoli was on a hat-trick and drilled a fine effort wide of the far post at the dawn of the second half.

There were timid penalty appeals when Mark Iuliano appeared to hold back Gilardino, but the referee waved play on.

A free kick was deflected out to the edge of the box and Nedved's volley was inches off target.

Alessandro Del Piero was left on the bench following his recent disappointing performances, but he made quite an entrance by scoring one minute after stepping on to the field. The captain gathered Maresca's pass and placed an angled drive into the far corner.

The floodgates were opened and Del Piero skipped past Paolo Cannavaro before cutting back for Nedved's fierce daisy-cutter.

Juventus: Buffon; Ferrara, Iuliano, Montero; Birindelli, Maresca (Conte 86), Tacchinardi, Zambrotta; Nedved; Miccoli (Zalayeta 68), Di Vaio (Del Piero 69)

Parma: Frey; Bonera (Cannavaro 38), Ferrari, Castellini, Junior; Barone, Donadel; Marchionni, Morfeo, Bresciano (Nakata 60); Gilardino

Ref: Paparesta

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/sa0304/juv-par.html

RuMmYtUb

15-12-2003, 12:16 AM

Forza Juventus ! :D

alexis10

15-12-2003, 12:16 AM

he made quite an entrance by scoring one minute after stepping on to the field

He done it twice in a week... Did it against gala that nite also...

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 02:35 AM

Originally posted by alexis10

He done it twice in a week... Did it against gala that nite also...

seens like he performs better statring as a sub...hmm..

anyway, u Juve fan too?

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 02:39 AM

My player ratings:

Buffon - Didn't have any real saves to make except for one on Gilardino. Gigi mishandled one ball, but that didn't cost us so... 6

Ferrara - Like Buffon, didn't have much to do. 6

Iuliano - Dealt with the few threats that Parma provided very well. He needs to see more playing time. 6.5

Montero - Montero is too inconsistent for me, as he did well on a few occasions but the absolute opposite on others. To add to that, his passing is poor, and very predictable. 5.5

Birindelli - A very honest shift in the absence of Lilian Thuram. Did well to restrict any promising attacks down the Parma left and went forward with equal efficiency. 6.5

Maresca - Another top quality performance from the young 23-year-old. Enzo bossed the midfield well with Tacchinardi at his side, and supplied good assists for Miccoli and Del Piero. 7.5

Tacchinardi - Solid in the centre of midfield. Looks really good when partnered by Maresca. 6.5

Zambrotta - Not so good in the first half, but much better in the second. Linked up well with Nedved, Miccoli, and Del Piero when he came on. 6

Nedved - Pavel wasn't in full flight against Inter and Lazio, but bounced back today despite suffering from a bout of the flu. His world-class assist for Fabrizio Miccoli's first goal and has goal should ensure that he wins the Balon d'Or IMO. 7.5

Miccoli - Excellent performance. Two chances in the first half, two great goals. Miccoli is intent on getting more playing time, and his efforts today can do his cause no wrong. 8

Di Vaio - Disappointing is all I have to say. 5.5

Zalayeta didn't do much, Del Piero scored a nice goal and did well to set up Nedved, and Conte made a five minute appearance.

alexis10

15-12-2003, 04:17 AM

anyway, u Juve fan too?

Yup:D

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 09:36 AM

Originally posted by alexis10

Yup:D

welcome to the Juve thread, one more Juve fan here :)

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 04:14 PM

Sun 14 December, 2003 21:54

ROME, Dec 14 (Reuters) - Leading scorers in the Italian Serie A after the last round of matches on Sunday:

12 - Andriy Shevchenko (AC Milan)

7 - Christian Vieri (Inter Milan), Marco Di Vaio, David Trezeguet (Juventus), Ernesto Chevanton (Lecce), Adriano (Parma), Francesco Totti (AS Roma), Dino Fava (Udinese)

6 - Andrea Caracciolo (Brescia),Fabio Bazzani (Sampdoria)

5 - Julio Cruz (Inter Milan), Fabrizio Miccoli (Juventus),
Bernardo Corradi, Simone Inzaghi (Lazio), Alberto Gilardino (Parma), Vincenzo Montella (AS Roma), Francesco Flachi (Sampdoria), Enrico Chiesa (Siena)

4 - Obafemi Martins (Inter Milan), Pavel Nedved (Juventus), Taddei (Siena)

3 - Roberto Baggio, Luigi Di Biagio, (Brescia), Sergio
Pellissier (Chievo Verona), Antonio Di Natale (Empoli),
Marco Materazzi (Inter Milan), Alessandro Del Piero
(Juventus) Stefano Fiore (Lazio), Jon Dahl Tomasson (AC
Milan), Diomansy Kamara (Modena), Mark Bresciano, Marco Marchionni, Domenico Morfeo (Parma), Jay Bothroyd, Massimo Margiotta, Zisis Vryzas (Perugia), John Carew, Mancini (AS Roma), Tore Andre Flo (Siena), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Udinese)

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 04:29 PM

Serie A Table

Week 13

Club P Pts
Roma 13 33
Milan 12 30
Juventus 13 29
Inter 13 28
Lazio 13 25
Parma 13 24
Udinese 13 21
Sampdoria 13 20
Modena 13 15
Chievo 13 15
Siena 12 14
Brescia 13 12
Reggina 13 11
Bologna 13 10
Perugia 13 8
Lecce 13 8
Empoli 13 6
Ancona 13 4

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 04:30 PM

Juventus 4-0 Parma

Marcello Lippi: “This success is down to the entire Juventus squad. We had a foggy moment, but that clarity has been restored with plenty of goals scored and none conceded. I am particularly pleased with the fact we didn’t let Parma get a single shot on goal.”

Cesare Prandelli: “Juventus are a tough side to meet right now, as we knew they would be out there to prove a point. We didn’t exactly stand in their way and that was disappointing. Now we must get back on track and recover all our energy after this terrible defeat.”

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec14f.html

demouse

15-12-2003, 04:34 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75
Juventus 4 - 0 Parma
Miccoli 10, 31 (J), Del Piero 70 (J), Nedved 72 (J)

brother, got video clips?

:D

dreamer75

15-12-2003, 04:44 PM

Originally posted by demouse

brother, got video clips?

:D

bro..have..will upload at night..:)

demouse

15-12-2003, 04:52 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75

bro..have..will upload at night..:)

read the report that del piero's assist damn good, must see :D

10Q

dreamer75

16-12-2003, 10:42 PM

Fabrizio Miccoli believes that Juventus are back on track after yesterday’s 4-0 win over Parma.

The Bianconeri had hit a crisis after three consecutive defeats against Inter, Galatasaray and Lazio.

However, the 7-0 win over Olympiakos and the victory against Parma seem to suggest that the Italian champions have picked themselves up.

"It was a difficult game for us because it wasn’t worth just the three points," said Miccoli. "It was also a tie which could illustrate whether we had got over our negative spell."

The former Perugia striker started the game after his heroics in midweek and he didn’t let down boss Marcello Lippi as he quickly netted twice.

"I’m delighted with the goals that I scored," added the Italian international. "I always look to give a contribution when I’m given the chance.

"When you are at a club like Juventus, it is vital that you are always ready when called upon."

The other Juventus goals yesterday were scored by Pavel Nedved and Alex Del Piero who have both picked up their game after some disappointing recent displays.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec15c.html

dreamer75

16-12-2003, 10:45 PM

Fabrizio Miccoli hopes that he can continue to impress at Juventus in a bid to make the European Championships.

"It is my dream to take part at Euro 2004," said the forward. "I want to convince Giovanni Trapattoni of my ability with my performances for Juve."

The forward has featured for Italy in recent months but seems to be in direct confrontation with Roma sensation Antonio Cassano for a squad place.

Miccoli has been in sparkling form for the Bianconeri and has found the net in consecutive games against Olympiakos and Parma.

"The two goals I scored against Parma were important," he added. "I wanted to do well, especially as I was given the chance to start the game.

"My first goal was important. The second more beautiful. It was just a key Sunday for me overall."

Juventus now seem back on track following a recent crisis when they lost three consecutive games against Inter, Galatasaray and Lazio.

But Miccoli fears that the Italian champions will have to be at their very best to eliminate the threat from Roma.

"They are very strong this season," he commented on the leaders. "They are a compact squad and concede very little. They also have a great Coach in Fabio Capello."

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec16a.html

dreamer75

16-12-2003, 10:48 PM

December 16, 2003

Juventus are set to snap up Olympiakos striker Nery Alberto Castillo.

Its understood the 19 year-old Uruguayan has given Juve first option if the Italian giants can find an agreement with Olympiakos over his transfer fee.

Juve had hoped to snap up the youngster next month, but Marcelo Zalayeta is refusing to move to Olympiakos as part of a swap deal.

The Greek giants are reluctant to sell Castillo without having found a readymade replacement, which is likely to see the deal on-hold until June.

Its believed Juve are prepared to pay £4 million for the striker.

dreamer75

17-12-2003, 02:29 PM

Originally posted by demouse

read the report that del piero's assist damn good, must see :D

10Q

sorry bro..need u to host the files for me...pm me on how to upload ok?

thanks! :)

dreamer75

17-12-2003, 02:30 PM

December 17, 2003

Juventus could step up their interest in Parma fullback Daniele Bonera in January.

The youngster suffered an injury in Parma's 4-0 defeat by Juve on Sunday, however remains a major target for the Turin club's general manager, Luciano Moggi.

Its been reported that Moggi already has first refusal on Bonera and rather than wait for the end of the season is ready to make a bid for the youngster when the transfer window reopens.

Parma's financial problems means they must complete at least one major sale to keep the club's growing debts under control.

demouse

17-12-2003, 03:02 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75

sorry bro..need u to host the files for me...pm me on how to upload ok?

thanks! :)

check PM :)

demouse

17-12-2003, 04:48 PM

Serie A Round 13: Best Eleven Of The Week

Ivan Pelizzoli (AS Roma) - Only one save against Modena, but it salvaged a vital win for the Giallorossi.

Matteo Pivotto (Modena) - Was all over the pitch against his former side. If he always played like this Roma would have never got rid of him.

Luigi Di Biagio (Brescia) - Against Empoli a great match as central defender, and a crucial goal.

Fabio Cannavaro (Inter) - A solid defensive performance at the Dall'Ara embellished by a couple of spectacular plays.[/COLOR]

Giacomo Tedesco (Perugia) - The Grifoni's skipper was finally able to make his mark in a Serie A game this season.

Enzo Maresca (Juventus) - The future is his.

Fabio Liverani (Lazio) - His fantastic lob goal broke the deadlock in a game that appeared destined for a scoreless draw.

Milan Rapaic (Ancona) - Impressed in his first game with the Dorici.

Fabrizio Miccoli (Juventus) - Wasted on the bench for the past four months, confirmed he's much better than an off-form Del Piero.

Obafemi Martins (Inter) - His fifth goal of the season made all the Interisti forget about Vieri.

Francesco Flachi (Sampdoria) - As the games go by he is becoming more decisive than his striking partner Bazzani.

Source : http://www.soccerage.com/en/13/s1016.html

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:16 AM

Juve defeated Siena in the first leg, 2-1, and thanks to those two away goals the Bianconeri shouldn't have too many problems on Thursday in the Delle Alpi.

Zalayeta will most likely start upfront alongside Del Piero, and il capitano should play for at least 60 minutes IMO, so as to regain form and fitness.

Prediction...3-1 Juve!

Forza Juve!!! :D

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:17 AM

This is the squad that Lippi has selected:

5 Igor TUDOR
6 Salvatore FRESI
7 Gianluca PESSOTTO
8 Antonio CONTE
10 Alessandro DEL PIERO
12 Antonio CHIMENTI
14 Enzo MARESCA
15 Alessandro BIRINDELLI
16 Mauro CAMORANESI
17 David TREZEGUET
18 Stephen APPIAH
19 Gianluca ZAMBROTTA
20 Marco DI VAIO
22 Antonio MIRANTE
23 Nicola LEGROTTAGLIE
24 Ruben OLIVERA
25 Marcelo ZALAYETA
26 Edgar DAVIDS
41 Benjamin ONWUACHI

The notable absentees are Ferrara, Montero, Tacchinardi, Miccoli and Nedved. Trezeguet is in the squad, so I wonder if we'll see an appearance from him.

Forza Juve!

alexis10

18-12-2003, 12:20 AM

Trezeguet is in the squad

I tot he is injured?? with a ankle injury rite??said that he will miss a few games... so fast come back liao

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:22 AM

This match is going to be extremely important for players who would want to prove something, I'm speaking about the players who started the season as regulars and then suddenly found themselves warming the bench due to a drop in form (Legro, Camo, Appiah, and DP) .. they would do anything to get their place back and return to playing every week ..

I'm very eager to see Davids play again .. it's as if he didn't play for ages .. in a perfect world he would play one helluva game and gets Lippi's attention to start more matches and the management's attention to offer him a new deal .. but we all know that's far from certain and Davids is playing his last matches for Juve..

Having another look at the starting line-up for this match and one couldn't help realizing how amazing it is that this is our 'second' team and yet it boasts so much internationals (well all except for Chimenti) and star players ..

Anyway. Siena will give their best shot at this match as this competition obviously means more to them than to us, but we are starting the match with one goal ahead and playing at home with a strong team so I'm not expecting any surprises ..

Forza Juve !! :)

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:24 AM

Originally posted by alexis10

I tot he is injured?? with a ankle injury rite??said that he will miss a few games... so fast come back liao

No,, he will be ok in a week or so... but will not be able to play in the few games of this year.

He will return in january 6 against perugia.:)

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:52 AM

Juventus coach Marcello Lippi has announced he has no intention of making any further additions to his current squad when the transfer window re-opens in January.

Unlike most Serie A teams, Juve only made three summer signings with Chievo defender Nicola Legrottaglie, Brescia midfielder Stephen Appiah and Perugia striker Fabrizio Miccoli joining the club.

"This is the most complete team I have ever had, we are fine," Lippi told Italian sports newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Turin club have recovered from a recent bad patch with a 7-0 thrashing of Olympiakos in last week's Champions League followed by Sunday's 4-0 win against Parma.

"It has not been a question of concentration, it was just a physical slip, a coincidence as we had the same thing last year," added Lippi, who believes Roma are the main rivals in the race for the Scudetto.

"I fear Roma more than the Milanese teams because they have a lot of quality and have found an absolute conviction in their own strengths."

http://www.sportinglife.com/football/overseas/italy/news/story_get.dor?STORY_NAME=international_feed/03/12/17/SOCCER_Ita-Juventus_Lippi.html&TEAMHD=italy

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:55 AM

Juventus 1-0 Parma, Miccoli (http://www.demouse.com/juventus/2003-12-14.Juventus.1-0.Parma.Miccoli.avi)

Juventus 2-0 Parma, Miccoli (http://www.demouse.com/juventus/2003-12-14.Juventus.2-0.Parma.Miccoli.avi)

Juventus 3-0 Parma, Del Piero (http://www.demouse.com/juventus/2003-12-14.Juventus.3-0.Parma.DelPiero.avi)

Juventus 4-0 Parma, Nedved (http://www.demouse.com/juventus/2003-12-14.Juventus.4-0.Parma.Nedved.avi)

Thanks demouse for ur help! :)

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:56 AM

Originally posted by demouse

read the report that del piero's assist damn good, must see :D

10Q

done...njoy! :)

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:58 AM

The moment of the last official match at Delle Alpi in 2003 has finally arrived. After the victories over Olympiakos in Champions League and against Parma in Serie A, Juventus is ready to play the second leg of the Coppa Italia second round against Siena, beaten in the away match for 2-1, thanks to the goals scored by Benjamin and Zalayeta.

For the game against the Tuscan team, Lippi will pick up Del Piero and Trezeguet as starters. “We’ll start the match with an important team which shows the richness of our group– Lippi said – We’ll face a team that rested last Sunday and that will be unwilling to lose”.

After the victory in the away match, the final result of the second round may seem to be certain but Lippi knows the risks of matches like this and revealed the secret to face the game against Papadopulo’s team.

”The important thing is to find the proper concentration in order to obtain the pass for the quarterfinals and use this match in the best way. We have to remember that an official match is always better than any training. So I expect Juventus will play in the proper way, showing that the bad moment we lived ten days ago is now over, both psychologically and physically, as we already saw on Sunday”.

http://www.juventus.it/juventus/en/cmc/news/200351/cmc_60961.html

demouse

18-12-2003, 10:10 AM

Originally posted by dreamer75
Juventus 1-0 Parma, Miccoli (http://www.demouse.com/juventus/2003-12-14.Juventus.1-0.Parma.Miccoli.avi)

Juventus 2-0 Parma, Miccoli (http://www.demouse.com/juventus/2003-12-14.Juventus.2-0.Parma.Miccoli.avi)

Juventus 3-0 Parma, Del Piero (http://www.demouse.com/juventus/2003-12-14.Juventus.3-0.Parma.DelPiero.avi)

Juventus 4-0 Parma, Nedved (http://www.demouse.com/juventus/2003-12-14.Juventus.4-0.Parma.Nedved.avi)

Thanks demouse for ur help! :)

see lao, 10Q :)

miccoli good leh, is there a way to put miccoli-del piero-trez-nedved together?

can miccoli play camo's role?

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:48 PM

Originally posted by demouse

see lao, 10Q :)

miccoli good leh, is there a way to put miccoli-del piero-trez-nedved together?

can miccoli play camo's role?

Miccoli can play Camo's role...Neddy as anchor man...trez n DP as forwards...:)

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 12:49 PM

but i would prefer Miccoli to start now as he's on fire!!

DP seems to perform much better when he comes on as a sub. :)

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 01:23 PM

December 18, 2003

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has stepped up the chase for Bayer Leverkusen defender Lucio.

Alerted to Juventus general manager Luciano Moggi's plans to make an offer for the Brazilian next month, Abramovich has tabled a £12 million bid.

Bayer officials have already stated they are happy to deal with Juve, but Abramovich is hoping his cash offer will give him the chance to speak with Lucio.

The Brazilian wants to stay with Bayer to the end of the season, but both Chelsea and Juve want to sign him next month to boost their flagging squad.

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 02:19 PM

Its a piece of news from a fan of San Lorenzo...read on.. :)

==============================

I'm from Argentina where I support San Lorenzo and here there's a lot of talking about our young defender Gonzalo Javier Rodríguez being transferred to Juventus in the next days.

If you don't know much about him, let me tell you that he's a hell of a central defender. He's the typical number "2". San Lorenzo's coach usually plays with a four-player defense but Gonzalo can also easily swich to a three-player defense because that's how he has been playing in the U-20 National Team for the past two years. By the way, right now he's in UAE with the team completing their participation on the FIFA World Youth Championship 2003. Unluckily we were defeated on semi-finals (where Gonzalo didn't play for being suspended one match... maybe the story would have been different had he played considering that Brazil's goal came from a header inside the small box which Gonzalo could have defended well considering how good of a header - both offensively and defensively - he is ) by Brazil last Monday. Anyway, now we are going to play against Colombia for the third place, so expect to see him in the starting lineup once again and you can tell me your impressions.

His main abilities are being a very fast defender, having a very good technique (he likes to pass the ball well instead of just rejecting the ball à la Paolo Montero ) and he can play both as a stopper and sweeper in a three-player defense. Of course, being right-footed he can also switch to the typical "4" position and play as right wing defender. And of course you gotta love his heading skills, as I said before.

Some additional info:

Birth date: 04/10/1984
Birth place: Ciudad de Buenos Aires
Weight: 73 kilograms
Height: 1.80 metres

He has a vast experience in National Teams. Not only has he been part of the U-17 and U-20 teams (for both of which he has played the South American Tournaments and the World Youth Championships) but he has also had his debut in the "first" National Team. After he won the South American Tournament with the U-20 team in late January this year he was picked by coach Marcelo Bielsa to go with the team on their mini-tour in Central America. It was supposed to be a trip for him to acquire some experience and see everything from outside but the first match against Honduras he had to come off the bench to re-order the defense after Gabriel Milito was sent off. Gonzalo had a solid performance and then he started the following match against Mexico where he even got to score the only goal of the game after a good header! He was obviously man of the match and a big revelation!

Now he's expected to play in the U-23 Qualifying Tournament for the Olympic Games next January but if he does go to Juventus I don't think la Vecchia Signora will allow him to go there.

So far his achievements have been:

- South American Cup 2002 with San Lorenzo (he scored 1 goal and played the 8 matches)
- U-20 South American Tournament 2003 with the National Team (he played all games except for one for being suspended and scored 1 goal as well)
- Fourth place in the U-17 World Youth Championship Trinidad y Tobago 2001
- Second place in the U-17 South American Tournament 2001

I know this may sound as a lot of promotion and you might even think I'm his manager or have to do something with San lorenzo's board But no way hehe I'm only a rabid supporter of San Lorenzo and am just checking if you have the same info there. Actually, if it were for me I'd wish he stayed in San Lorenzo forever! But here it is being said that three members of San Lorenzo's board have travelled already to Turin to begin negotiations. We're talking about 4 millions euros.

If you ask me, I say that's almost a present for you if you know what I mean. He's a very young (19) and promising defender who, in a couple of years playing in the elite and if everything goes OK, could triple his value or more! i'm not exaggerating, really.

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 02:20 PM

4 million euros seems reasonable enough :D

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 02:23 PM

a very famous argentinian show called "LA ULTIMA PALABRA" also reported that "Did u know that the representatives of Gonzalo Rodríguez are heading tomorrow(today)to Turin to seal the deal with Juventus??"

So people..... this are not just silly rumours...and i would not be surprised if they announce the deal in Jan :D

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 02:24 PM

EDGAR DAVIDS ON THE MOVE

Reliable Dutch newspaper De Volkskrant reported today that Dutch midfielder Edgar Davids will move to Internazionale in January. Dissatisfaction and an ending contract at his current club Juventus would be the main motivations.

The 30-year-old initially wanted to sign a new contract with Juventus over the summer but the Old Lady refused to do so and ever since, the relationship between the two parties has cooled down significantly.

Juventus are now looking to make some money off the star-midfielder and a transfer to Internazionale (who are not playing any Champions League football anymore this season) would be an ideal move in the eyes of the Turin based club.

No official statements have been made by Edgar Davids or his manager as yet.

From De Volkskrant

demouse

18-12-2003, 02:35 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75
4 million euros seems reasonable enough :D

wat reasonable, juve "kyo tio" :eek:

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 02:38 PM

Originally posted by demouse

wat reasonable, juve "kyo tio" :eek:

heehee :D

aiyah...Milan aksi "kyo tio" mah..Kaka roz!!...:eek:

demouse

18-12-2003, 02:43 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75

heehee :D

aiyah...Milan aksi "kyo tio" mah..Kaka roz!!...:eek:

how come roma bo "kyo tio" leh. stupid sensi, faster retired lah :mad:

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 02:46 PM

Originally posted by demouse

how come roma bo "kyo tio" leh. stupid sensi, faster retired lah :mad:

no meh?

i tot Chivu and Mancini are gd and cheap buys?

RuMmYtUb

18-12-2003, 06:27 PM

Originally posted by dreamer75

heehee :D

aiyah...Milan aksi "kyo tio" mah..Kaka roz!!...:eek:

Kaka. :cool:

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 11:55 PM

Game just ended...

Coppa Italia Report: A Del Piero Inspired Juventus Qualify To The Quarter Finals

An excellent performance by Alessandro Del Piero sees Juventus past a solid Siena side thanks to a 2-1 home victory for an aggregate result of 4-2.

At the Delle Alpi, Juve’s ‘second string’ players won a quiet game in which Lippi’s team never really risked much. The first half was a dire one and both teams seemed to lack spark up front when it came to creating goal scoring opportunities.

Del Piero, trying to win back a first team regular in the matches that count, proved very active and was the most dangerous forward from both Juve and Siena players. In fact the first shot on goal came when the Juventus captain hit the post after freeing himself inside the penalty area.

Later on Conte nearly scored an acrobatic goal when from a Del Piero cross, he hit the ball with a flying back heel which went just high. Siena were not able to create much and the first shot on goal came only in the 40th minute when a long shot by Guigou was easily saved by Chimenti.

Just before half time Del Piero scored when Appiah sent the forward, in a dubious on side position, one on one with the opposing keeper and calmly slotted the ball in the net. Siena replied immediately with Rubinho, who’s header from a good position was well saved by Chimenti.

The second half proved more interesting as Siena pressed hard to find the draw, however it was Juve who scored again in the 51st minute through Camoranesi from a good assist by Zalayeta.

Siena came back into the game immediately when they were awarded a penalty following a handsball by Igor Tudor. Ventola scored the resulting penalty with more than 35 minutes to go.

Both teams tried to score but good saves by both keepers and bad finishing by the strikers kept result locked on 2-1 which sees Juventus facing Perugia in the next round, quarter final, of the Coppa Italia Tim Cup 2003/04.

http://www.soccerage.com/en/13/s1704.html

dreamer75

18-12-2003, 11:58 PM

Juventus 2-1 Siena (4-2 on agg)

Alessandro Del Piero was on target for the third successive game as Juventus disposed of Siena in the Italian Cup.

The Italian champions collected a 2-1 victory at a deserted Stadio Delle Alpi this afternoon as their captain netted his 150th goal for the club.

With Juventus having won the first leg 2-1, boss Marcello Lippi decided to field some big name players such as Del Piero, Trezeguet, Camoranesi, Appiah and Legrottaglie in an effort to find some form.

Yet it was Siena who started the more brightly. After just five minutes Delli Carri, a former Torino youth product, headed over the bar with Juve ‘keeper Chimenti flapping at a corner.

Juventus almost took the lead soon after though when Del Piero freed himself from Delli Carri but his left foot strike thumped the woodwork. The No 10 was looking in good shape and he crossed later in the half for Conte to back heel a shot just over the bar.

The breakthrough finally came on the stroke of half time. Appiah picked out Del Piero with a stunning pass. He controlled with his chest to send his shot past Fortin for the opener despite Siena’s claims that he was offside.

Juve doubled their lead soon after the break. Zalayeta crossed for Camoranesi who found the back of the net with a diagonal finish.

The Tuscan side instantly hit back though when they were awarded a penalty. Ventola placed his spot kick to the left of Chimenti to make it 2-1.

Siena brought on Taddei, Flo and Chiesa but they rarely troubled Juventus who were in control of the game. So much so that they even went close to scoring again thanks to a 30-yard free-kick from Edgar Davids.

Marco Di Vaio also went close in injury time when his left foot drive just finished wide of the upright with Fortin beaten. Juve will now face Perugia in the last eight.

Scorers: Del Piero (J) 44, Camoranesi (J) 52, Ventola pen (S) 53

Juventus (4-4-2): Chimenti, Birindelli, Tudor, Legrottaglie, Pessotto; Camoranesi, Appiah (Zalayeta 47), Conte, Davids; Trezeguet (Di Vaio 46), Del Piero (Zambrotta 65).

Siena ( 4-4-2): Fortin Cirillo, Delli Carri, Cufré, Bonomi; Lazetic (Flo 67), D’Aversa, Argilli, Guigou (Taddei 63); Ventola (Chiesa 60), Rubino.

Ref: Bergonzi.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/dec18g.html

dreamer75

19-12-2003, 12:00 AM

We will be facing Perugia in the quater finals of Coppa Italia! :D

dreamer75

19-12-2003, 12:07 AM

Bring on Leece...:D

dreamer75

19-12-2003, 12:08 AM

Serie A Week 14 - 21/12/03 (15.00)

Lecce - Juventus

Stadio Via del Mare

Juventus have scored eleven goals in their last two games and expect to continue their run against the worst defence in Serie A, but all eyes will be on Homecoming King Fabrizio Miccoli.

The Bianconeri are not a side to do things by halves, so the best way to recover from losing three games on the trot was to destroy Olympiakos 7-0 and Parma 4-0 in their next outings. Fabrizio Miccoli has proved he is on fine form by netting a brace in that win over the Gialloblu and should be again given a starring role in his hometown of Lecce.

Alessandro Del Piero is now forced to fight for a place after struggling to fully recover from his injury, but a goal just one minute after stepping on to the field as a substitute means the pressure is on Miccoli to deliver again. David Trezeguet and Lilian Thuram remain sidelined with ankle injuries, so Marco Di Vaio is set to retain his spot.

Lecce were promoted from Serie B in the summer and have struggled to adapt to the top flight. Their home record was crucial in that campaign, but so far they have picked up just two wins, a draw and three defeats at the Stadio Via del Mare.

Delio Rossi’s men have a classy target man in Javier Chevanton, but it is at the back that they are truly disappointing. With 27 goals conceded, the Salentini have the worst defence in the division along with fellow relegation strugglers Perugia.

Lecce (probable): Amelia; Siviglia, Bovo, Stovini, Abruzzese; Cassetti, Ledesma, Piangerelli, Tonetto; Bojinov, Chevanton

Juventus (probable) : Buffon; Iuliano, Ferrara, Montero; Birindelli, Maresca, Tacchinardi, Zambrotta; Nedved; Di Vaio, Miccoli

Ref: To folllow

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/sa0304/lec-juv.html