Manninger: «The title race is till open»

«I am sorry to have missed the international call-up but unfortunately I had a problem with my calf. Next week I think I will be back with the group. It was an incredible incident: I injured myeslf during a leap to save an Amauri shot and we both got hurt simultaneously». Alexander Manninger still cannot believe the incident which forced him to stay off the field recently even though the worst is now over and soon the goalkeeper will be able to return to action.

Alex’s importance this season was great and speaking of him as a second goalkeeper does not do him justice: «I am happy with the choice made in summer – continued Manninger on Juventus Channel – and now I want to continue doing my utmost for the team, getting back into form as soon as possible. The title race is still open. We were clever enough to remain close to Inter and in this manner with the direct encounter everything is still possible. We all believe we can catch up with the nerazzurri but we have to pay attention to all the matches. The Italian championship is very competitive and if one concentrates exclusively on the strong team you end up losing many points along the way».
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Last training session before two days of rest. Back to work on Tuesday

Due to the break in the championship, Claudio Ranieri has granted the team two days of rest with the players getting back to work on Tuesday afternoon at 15:00hrs. This morning, the last training session lasted just over an hour and saw the participation of 15 players. Chimenti and Manninger worked separately with part of the work carried out in the gym and the second part consisting of jogging on the field. Nedved, who was yesterday away due to pharyngitis, today worked in the gym.

The players who worked on the field carried out technical exercises following a warm-up. The session came to an end with a 6-a-side mini-match on one side of the field. The first team was made up of Giovinco and Marchisio (who are ready to join the Under 21 squad) together with Molinaro, Ekdal, Legrottaglie and De Ceglie. The other team consisted of Del Piero, Zanetti, Zebina, Camoranesi, Salihamidzic and Marchionni.
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Italy beat Montenegro 2-0

«In the first half we didn’t play very well. We were awarded a penalty following a tackle by a rival defender but we didn’t deserve much more. In the second half on the other hand, we showed personality, had many goal opportunities and we only risked on one occasion. I am satisfied with the performance of my boys. The 1-1 draw of Ireland means that we have a 2 point advantage in the table and on Wednesday in the direct encounter we have the possibility of increasing it». These are the comments of Marcello Lippi at the end of the match which saw the azzurri emerge from the stadium in Podgorica with a round 2-0 thanks to a Pirlo penalty in the first half and a goal by Pazzini in the second. Now the points in the group’s table are 13, 2 more then Ireland, the next opponent on Wednesday.

All the bianconeri were in the starting line-up but on the 14th minute Iaquinta was forced to leave the field following a blow in a tackle. Buffon did not have a particularly busy night but he performed a miracle on a short distance shot by Djalovic (22nd) saving the result which at the time was 1-0. Great sacrifice made by Chiellini who had problems with his nose (very recently operated on) in the middle of the second half and had to call on the help of the medical staff many times but still managed to finish the game.


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International bianconeri

Apart from the three bianconeri involved in the match in Podgorica in the match between Italy and Montenegro which ended in a 2-0 win for the azzurri, Saturday also saw the turn of all the other players called up to represent their countries in the various world cup qualifiers.

Zdenek Grygera’s Czech Republic obtained a goalless draw against Slovenia. Another draw was that between Tiago’s Portugal and Olof Mellberg’s Sweden with the final result also being 0-0.

Christian Poulsen’s Denmark registered a 3-0 away win against Malta. The Danes went ahead on the 12th minute thanks to Larsen whos scored a second 11 minutes later. With one minute to goal Nordstrand made the final score 3-0.
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Camoranesi: «We have two goals to reach»

Juventus is working hard during this period, but fatigue is not felt when the training sessions are taken in the right spirit. Mauro German Camoranesi, for example, at the end of yesterday’s session was the protagonist of a sweet situation with Sebastian Giovinco. Impressed by the magical moves of the Atomic Ant, the world champion exchanged jerseys with the young player to stress his performance. This is a clear sign of the harmony which reigns amongst the squad members: «The atmosphere is a happy one – confirmed Mauro on Juventus Channel – we are well and we enjoy ourselves during training. The atmosphere however, has always been good notwithstanding the results. Now we are working in preparation of the next match».

The next match is against Chievo, but it is clear that the most awaited match is the one against Inter on schedule for the 18th of April. A match, in which Mauro, last year, was a protagonist, both in the first and in the second round with decisive goals: «From now till the end of the season all the matches will be difficult. The match against Inter is important and awaited because it is practically a derby but it is still worth three points. It will be important to win against everyone, not only against the nerazzurri because we still have two objectives and we will have to fight to obtain them. I hope to be back after the break since I still have a week to work. It is quite some time since I played and I will make myself available for the coach. Obviously I hope to play against Inter».

The doubt is well justified because notwithstanding his crystalline class, Camoranesi must “look out” for the internal competition, seeing that both Salihamidzic and Marchionni are available and in great form: «The contribution by all the squad has been important, because notwithstanding the injuries, all those who played did so well, allowing the team to continue fighting both in the championship and the Coppa Italia. Now the last part remains but it has still been a positive season. We were eliminated from the Champions League, the most awaited competition, but from which we had been missing for two years. Being eliminated by Chelsea is acceptable and those not effect the holistic outcome of our season».
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A Saturday of international matches. The azzurri to meet Montenegro

During the weekend break from the Serie A, it is time for the national sides to play their qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup. Lippi’s azzurri will play in Podgorica against Montenegro (20:45hrs). According to the latest news on the media, all 3 bianconeri called up Buffon, Chiellini and Iaquinta should be playing.

In Group 1 Poulsen’s Denmark will play against Malta whilst Tiago’s Portugal will encounter Mellberg’s Sweden. In Group 3 Grygera’s Czech Republic will meet Slovenia.
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Legrottaglie, a man of faith and the field

Ho fatto una promessa” (I made a promise), is the title of Nicola Legrottaglie’s book which was presented at the Media Center in Vinovo during the press conference which also saw the particpation of Darwin Pastorin and Mariella Scirea. In his book, the defender recounts his experience as a man of faith, faith which supported him in these years and helped him reach his objectives. The first of these was to become a professional player and it id from this wish that the title of the book was born. A promise to GodIf I ever become a Serie A player, I will be a missionary in the world – one can read on the fly-page of the cover. He did his part and now it is my turn».

«In this book I recount my experience, the route of my life, as a footballer and as a man of faith. The two paths are inevitably linked because God is always present in every moment. The message that is conveyed is that He is always by our side and we only have to open up our heart to receive him».

Nicola, besides the book, also spoke of football with Juventus Channel: «Now I am well, my knee is responding and shout be available after the break. My team mates played really well, showing once again that there are no first team players or reserves but that Juventus is a team made up of players of great value».

Juventus’ improvement, not only on a results level has been acclaimed and recognized even by the opponents. Mourinho, himself, spoke well of Ranieri’s team: «This is of great satisfaction to us. Two years ago we were in the Serie B and having got to this point in such a short time competing with a team like Inter is a reason to be proud». With reference to the title of his book Legrottaglie is asked what promise he would like to make to the fans: «That all of us will always give the maximum effort. I cannot promise results, it wouldn’t be right, even if the thing we all want is victory. We for sure, will not let go until the very end».

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And now it’s time for the national teams

After the beautiful victory at the Olimpico in Rome (4-1) thanks to two goals by Iaquinta and one each by Mellberg and Nedved, Ranieri granted the team two days of well deserved rest in view of the break in the championship due to the World Cup 2010 qualifiers. The bianconeri, excluding the players called up with Italy and other countries, will train in Vinovo from Tuesday afternoon to Saturday morning.

Buffon, Chiellini and Iaquinta are the players called-up by Marcello Lippi. The “azzurri” will have to be at the Centro Tecnico Federale in Coverciano on Monday evening to begin their preparation in view of the two up-coming matches: on Saturday 28th March in Podgorica against Montenegro (20:45h) and on Wednesday 1st April at the San Nicola Stadium in Bari against the Republic of Ireland coached by Giovanni Trapattoni (20:50hrs).

The call-ups for the other countries have already been announced and involve five bianconeri, three of which in the same qualifying group (Group 1). On the 28th of March, while Poulsen’s Denmark will meet Malta, Tiago’s Portugal will play against Sweden’s Mellberg. On the 1st of April only Poulsen will be busy playing for Denmark against Albania. In Group 3, Grygera’s Czech Republic will play against Slovenia on the 28th of March and against Slovakia on the 1st of April. Knezevic is also back with the national side of his country, Croatia who will be playing against Andorra on the 1st April (Group 6).





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AS Roma vs Juventus (1-4) Highlights & Goals 21/03/09 (High Quality)

Player Ratings: Roma 1–4 Juventus

Juventus brushed aside Roma to move within four points of Inter at the top of the table. Goal.com rates the players on show…
21 Mar 2009 22:27:31
ROMA

Doni: 4.0- Was beaten handily four times and was hung out to dry by his back four.

Riise: 5.0- The former Liverpool man made a wonderful save on Del Piero with Doni beaten but will not pleased that the back line conceded four goals

Loria: 6.0- The much-maligned centre-back scored his first goal for the Giallorossi but it came in a losing cause.

Mexes: 4.0- Looked like a pylon when Iaquinta stepped around him and opened the scoring. His evening did not get any better when Iaquinta out-jumped him for his second goal of the match.

Panucci: 4.0- The veteran right-back was run ragged by Giovinco and Co. and it may be time for him to hang up his boots

Filipe: 6.0- The youngster made his first start of the season and was one of the only bright spots in an otherwise ugly evening for the Giallorossi.

Brighi: 5.0- Worked his socks off tonight in the first half but could not handle the presence of Poulsen in the midfield.

Tonetto: 5.0- His little flick set up Loria’s goal but failed to do much after that.

Baptista: 5.0- The ‘Beast’ was rather tame this evening and will not have pleased his manager with his performance.

Menez: 6.0- The flashy French winger went to ground much too easily at times but won the corner and then provided the delivery that set up Loria’s goal.

Vucinic: 5.0- He was starved of service upfront and was jeered off the pitch when he was substituted late in the game.

SUBS: Montella (63”) 5.5, D’Alessandro (82’) NA Stojan (91’) NA

JUVENTUS

Buffon: 6.0- Did not have much to do between the posts tonight but made a good stop on D’Alessandro in the closing minutes.

Molinaro: 7.0- The hardworking defender did not put a wrong foot forward all evening long and linked up well with Giovinco.

Chiellini: 8.0- He was sporting a mask after breaking his nose but it did not inhibit his performance which was top class as usual. Made a wonderful sliding block on Brighi in the 16th minute.

Mellberg: 7.5- The Big Swede scored a rare goal when he sent a bullet header past Doni to put the match to bed.

Grygera: 7.0- His cross set up Iaquinta for his second goal of the match.

Salihamidzic: 7.0- He is rounding into form after coming back from a long injury layoff and Juve’s midfield has been better for it.

Tiago: 7.0- The Portuguese playmaker put a solid performance together as he pulled the strings in the midfield tonight.

Poulsen: 7.0- The tough as nails holding midfielder created space for Tiago and Giovinco to work with.

Giovinco: 7.5- The ‘Atomic Ant’ set up Iaquinta’s goal with a beautiful pass and was a danger every time he touched the ball.

Iaquinta: 8.0- Took his goals extremely well as he danced around Mexes and fired a shot past Doni for his first and then out-muscled the Frenchman to head past Doni for his second.

Del Piero: 7.0- The captain was unlucky not to have added his name to the score-sheet as Riise cleared what was a certain goal off the line.

SUBS: Nedved (70”) 7.5, Marchionni (73”) 6.5

The bianconeri conquer Rome!

Roma-Juventus is never an easy match and yet the end result would have suggested so. The reality is that Ranieri’s men managed to control the game well and even when they saw their advantage being equalized, they reacted well winning an important three points which fuel title hopes.

Even though there are a number of initiatives by both teams the start of the match is rather slow with the two sides seeming reluctant to take any excessive risks. On the 2nd minute Riise shoots from outside the Juve area but the ball goes wide and one minute later Buffon saves with some difficulty after some indecision by the defence.

On the 4th minute Grygera puts a ball into the Roma area but there is nobody who can get to it. One minute later Brazzo fishes out Del Piero who in turn heads into the area but the defence anticipates. On the 6th minute there is a corner for Juventus: Giovinco puts the ball into the area but the cross is low and intercepted. Two minutes later it is the hosts who have a corner: ball into the area but Mellberg clears.

Rhythm starts to build up and on the 14th minute Iaquinta receives the ball and enters the area well but mistakes the pass to Del Piero and the defence clears. Two minutes later there is a good through ball to Giovinco by Del Piero but the young star does not manage to control the ball well.

Chiellini saves the day on the 18th minute, after the defence hesitated, allowing Riise to enter the area. Four minutes later Del Piero puts a ball into the area, it is too high for Iaquinta who merely touches it, the ball reaches Giovinco who hesitates with the defence clearing. On the 23rd minute Roma are awarded a free-kick following a Grygera foul on Menez. Riise takes the free-kick putting the ball into the area but Poulsen clears.

On the 25th minute Giovinco shoots from outside the area but the ball is deviated into a corner. The atomic ant puts the ball into the area, the defence clears partially but the ball reaches Del Piero who shoots with the defence intercepting. On the 26th minute Vucinic tries a lob from outside the area but Buffon cradles it easily.

Seba is beginning to enter the match and on the 28th minute he puts a good ball to Iaquinta who in turn crosses to Salihamidzic but the ball is too long. On the half-hour Doni is forced to leave the post to anticipate Iaquinta. Juventus are gradually starting to take over the control of the midfield and on the 34th minute Giovinco passes to Iaquinta who shoots from outside the area posting the ball into the bottom right corner of the net for the opener: 0-1.

The giallorossi try to react and on the 36th minute Menez shoots badly and the ball goes wide from a favorable position. One minute later Giovinco with a beautiful heel passes the ball to Del Piero who is stopped for a foul. On the 39th minute Vucninic anticipates Mellberg and shoots seeing the ball go wide.

On the 41st minute Juventus are awarded a corner after Riise devaited a Brazzo cross. Del Piero puts the ball into the area, Brazzo tries to head but the ball is too high. The sphere finally reaches Giovinco who shoots high. The last action of the first half comes on the 43rd minute Iaquinta puts a tricky ball into the area with Doni who manages to save. The first half ends after 2 minutes of stoppage time with the bianconeri leading by 1-0.

The first five minutes of the second half see Roma more motivated then the bianconeri who seem not to have really come back on the field. On the 2nd minute there is a corner for Roma after a ball in the area is deviated by Mellberg. Iaquinta clears. Seconds later the referee awards Roma another corner with Loria deviates the ball sending it to the back of the net for the equaliser.

The goal could have been a demoralizer but instead the bianconeri show their will power and fight back. On the 5th minute Del Piero tries to head the ball in the area but a foul is ordered against him and one minute later the captain tries to shoot from a long distance but the ball goes high.

On the 9th minute comes the turning point of the game: a Grygera cross is deviated by Riise, the ball reaches Iaquinta who heads home for the advantage : 1-2. Two minutes later the hosts go close to equalizing a second time: there is a corner orner for Roma: the ball is dangerously heading for the net but Iaquinta intervenes to clear. On the 13th minute Giovinco enters the area and shoots but Doni saves.

A quarter of an hour into the second half, there is a free-kick for Roma after a Giovinco foul on Brighi. The ball is put into the area but Mellberg anticipates Mexes for a corner. One minute later Iaquinta and Del Piero exchange the ball on a very fast counter-attack with the captain who sees his shot being deviated by Riise just off the goal line. On the 16th minute Riise anticipates Iaquinta after a good cross into the area by Molinaro.

On the 22nd minute Juve are rewarded for their efforts. There is a corner for Juve: the ball is put into the area, Mellberg rises above all and heads home for the third goal (1-3). Three minutes later Nedved comes on for Tiago and two minutes later Marchionni on for Giovinco. The substitutions seem to yield their fruit since on the 28th minute a cross into the Roma area is cleared by the defence but reaches Nedved who shoots home with a powerful shot from outside the area making the score 1-4.

The bianconeri are now in total control of the match. On the 33rd minute a ball is crossed into the area for Marchionni who dribbles round a defender a first time but does not manage to stop the ball from going over the line. There is glory even for Buffon in the match as the keeper performs a miracle putting the ball into corner after a shot is deviated by Chiellini on the 35th minute.

One minute later the ball is put into the Juve area from the corner but Buffon has no difficulty in saving. On the 37th minute Juventus are denied a penalty after the ball is handed in the Roma area by a defender. Four minutes later Buffon is seen in yet another brilliant save on young debutant attacker D'Alessandro.

The match ends in the best of manners with the bianconeri obtaining a very important victory before the break on a difficult field, a victory which will certainly motivate Ranieri’s men in view of the final 9 matches of the title race.

Serie A 2008/09 29th Match Day
Rome, Stadio Olimpico
Saturday 21st March, 2009

ROMA – JUVENTUS: 1-4

Scorers: Iaquinta (34th), Loria (47th), Iaquinta (54th), Mellberg (68th), Nedved (74th),

ROMA: Doni; Panucci, Mexes, Loria (Montella 62nd), Riise; Felipe, Brighi; Tonetto, Baptista; Menez (D’Alessandro 82nd), Vucinic (Stojan 91st). Reserves: Arthur, Crescenzi, Malomo, Brosco, Stojan, D’Alessandro, Montella. Coach: Spalletti.

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Grygera, Mellberg, Chiellini, Molinaro; Salihamidzic, Tiago (Nedved 70th), Poulsen, Giovinco (Marchionni 72nd); Iaquinta, Del Piero. Reserves: Chimenti, Zebina, Knezevic, Castiglia, Marchionni, Nedved, Trezeguet. Coach: Ranieri.

REFEREE: Rocchi from Florence.

Yellow Cards: Loria (24th), Tiago (29th), Mexes (40th), Riise (66th), Molinaro (69th), Menez (77th)



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Ranieri: «A sense of practicality and speed. I liked the team»

Claudio Ranieri was right to fear a injury-afflicted yet dangerous Roma.The giallosrossi did their part and there was the need of the best Juventus to beat them in fact one of the best Juventus performances this season. The 4-1 obtained at the Olimpico, just like in 2006 keeps the bianconeri on track.

At the end of the match, the Juventus coach did not change his opinion on the championship and on the objectives of his team. «We always give the maximum when we play trying to improve with each match, knowing that a team that wants to win must first think of itself. I am especially happy with the spirit shown by these boys. It is great how they always do their best to win. Tonight we played an injury-afflicted Roma but which had its public behind it. We played well maintaining the right distances and the right geometry. I liked the speed and the practicality. Well done for Iaquinta. Recently he had a few minor injuries but now he is fresh and can push hard. Nedved? I hope he changes his mind and does not retire. I would always want to have a player like him in the dressing room».



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Iaquinta: «Now let us win the other nine matches!»

The years pass but Juventus does not seem to lose one of its best attributes: never stop to rejoice for a victory but think immediately of the next match.

This is perfectly understood by Vincenzo Iaquinta.

Mere minutes after the splendid 4-1 against Roma and the fifth consecutive victory the striker is already thinking of what is to come after the break: «We will continue looking at ourselves and not at Inter. There are still nine matches to go and we want to win them all, pursuing this route. Today I am happy with my performance and that of the team. We were compact. Team-spirit has always been our strength and we showed this once again tonight».
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Mellberg: «It is a very important victory»

Another good performance and a great goal. This is the outcome of Mellberg’s match against Roma. The Swede is slowly becoming a point of reference in the defence and seeing from his goal today a regular scorer in Rome.

Here are the words of the Viking from Sweden: «It’s true this stadium brings me luck. It is a very important victory. It is always a difficult match against Roma but we played well. I think for us to win the championship, Inter are the ones who have to make a few mistakes but we must just look at ourselves and see what happens».

Olof seems to have settled well with Juventus especially when one considers that he came from an experience in English football: «When you come to a new team you never know how much you will be playing. We had a good pre-season and I think this was important for me to settle. I feel very much at ease with my colleagues in the defence and with Chiello with whom I think I played some good matches».
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Giovinco: «It was important to win»

The young Sebastian Giovinco has shown great personality and has been in constant crescendo in the last matches showing a great form: «I am happy. It was important to win and play as we did in the last matches keeping up the consistency».

The Atomic Ant is constantly getting more used to captain Del Piero and the other veterans: «When there are technical players it is normal to take advantage and this favours Alex and Iaquinta. I am happy to play with him and get more used to him. I always tried to do my best and my team mates are helping me a great deal. I still have a lot to learn».



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Ranieri: «We will have to be the best Juventus»

Friday has become synonymous with Claudio Ranieri’s press conference. Saturday matches have become the norm for Juventus. A good norm when one considers the fact that the bianconeri obtained 12 points in the last 4 matches played on a Saturday with victories against Palermo, Napoli, Torino and Bologna.

Now, Juventus must face what seems to be the hardest match on paper: that away to Roma. A big match, considering the great tradition and rivalry which separates the supporters, which will be definitely one to experience on both sides of the field: «They will be missing Totti? The people would like to always see players like him, Maldini and Del Piero on the field because they create spectacle – commented the Juventus coach – but this does not mean that Roma will be less strong. The public will play its part and drive the team just as they did against Arsenal».

Absentees are not only the problem of Roma but also of Juventus. The coach however, still has something to smile about since Trezeguet and Nedved have been called up and Chiellini managed to recover a few days after the operation. «To decide on the names of the players to call up I will have to wait till the end of the last training session whereas I will decide about the starting line-up tonight. Last year we did really well with three forwards and it is a possibility just like the possibility of Giovinco in the starting line-up. Sebastian has broken the ice and he played well against Chelsea and Bologna. The trigger inside him has sprung and he must now continue in this manner».

The tradition and the absentees do not manage to conceal the true meaning of the match, that is the importance of the winning prize. The 3 points are fundamental for Roma who are seeking to end up in the first 4 places and for Juventus who want to maintain their march at the top. «After last year’s championship we are having another great one but we want to achieve even more and we will not feel appeased – concluded Ranieri-. We will continue to evaluate our ambitions, independently of the position in the table, knowing that only Inter can lose this Scudetto. We must only continue to give the maximum and improve what we have done up to now. I like to be realistic and look at what is possible».
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20 called-up for away match against Roma

Following the fine-tuning training session in Vinovo, Claudio Ranieri has announced the names of the 20 players called-up for Saturday’s away match against Roma.

The Jventus coach will have back three players who were absent against Bologna - Trezeguet, Nedved and Marchionni – as well as Chiellini a few days after the operation to his nose. In addition to these the list also sees the return of Knezevic after his return to the field with the Primavera last Saturday.

Legrottaglie and Marchisio did not make it. The injured players list still includes Amauri, Sissoko and Manninger. De Ceglie, Camoranesi and Zanetti will continue to work on the field and will probably be back after the break for international matches.

Below are the names of the 20 players called up for the match against Roma:

1 Buffon
3 Chiellini
4 Mellberg
5 Zebina
7 Salihamidzic
9 Iaquinta
10 Del Piero
11 Nedved
12 Chimenti
15 Knezevic
17 Trezeguet
18 Poulsen
20 Giovinco
21 Grygera
28 Molinaro
30 Tiago
31 Nocchi
32 Marchionni
35 Esposito
36 Castiglia



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20 called-up for away match against Roma

Agreement with Istituto per il Credito Sportivo for the financing of the new stadium

Juventus Football Club announces that it has signed a loan contract with the Istituto per il Credito Sportivo for a sum of € 50 million for the duration of 12 years, in addition to a pre-amortisation period of maximum 3 years, destined entirely to finance the work for the construction of the new Stadium.

In the pre-amortisation period, the loan envisages the payment of six-monthly interest calculated at the Euribor 6 month rate, plus 200 bp. The repayment of the loan will be made in 24 six-monthly equal instalments, calculated at a fixed rate corresponding to IRS 6 years (which will be defined at the time the financing is fully received by Juventus) plus 220 bp. In addition, the loan will benefit from a contribution to interest as permitted by the regulations in force.

Against the financing granted, Juventus will provide the Istituto per il Credito Sportivo with appropriate guarantees (mortgage on the stadium building and pledges on future receipts from season and ticket sales), and will cede part of the receivables due from the Sportfive contract concerning the naming of the new Stadium and other minor commercial rights.

The loan contract with the Istituto per il Credito Sportivo makes it possible to complete the coverage of the financing needs for the construction of the new Stadium. The remaining part of the investment (for a total of € 105 million) will be covered through the advance receipts envisaged by the Sportfive contract and the revenues deriving from the sale of the adjacent commercial areas to Nordiconad Soc. Coop..
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Marchisio: «Let us believe in it together»

There are less then ten days to the finish line. The end of the championship draws closer week after week and Juventus has no intention of letting go. With the adventure in the Champions League having come to an end and notwithstanding a number of absentees the bianconeri are looking to the future with optimism.

The Serie A is in the crucial moment and Ranieri’s team continues with its attempt to reach the top. Two days before the match against Roma it was Claudio Marchisio who analyzed the situation. The midfielder was the guest of Filo Diretto on Juventus Channel: «We are playing a great championship and we intend to believe in it till the very end. There are still many points at our disposal and even Inter are beginning to feel the fatigue from the many commitments. This is the decisive moment. We must try to obtain the maximum in the next three matches against Roma, Chievo and Genoa to get to the match against Inter in the best condition».

The first of the three matches, which is important to get to the break in t5he best condition, will be in Rome against the giallorossi. On Saturday night, two historical rivals will be meeting but both teams are facing formation problems. The young midfielder does not want to add his name to the list of unavailable players: I suffered a blow to my knee during the match against Bologna but I am doing everything possible to recover. We know that even they have problems with missing players but this does not mean that they will be more dangerous. All those who will play will give the maximum especially those who had less opportunities to show their worth up ton now».

The capital will therefore see the arrival of a Juventus determined to win all the points. After 4 consecutive victories, the bianconeri will want to obtain the pokerissino. The match will see a highly charged team promises Marchisio: «Our group is as united as ever. We were all very sad about the elimination from the Champions League but we united and against Bologna we came back in the best of manners».


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Player Ratings: Juventus 4-1 Bologna

JUVENTUS

Buffon: 7.0- Will not be too happy that Mutarelli’s shot beat him through the legs but made a world class reflex save on Di Vaio in the 51st minute.

Molinaro: 7.0- Made a wonderful tackle to deny Bombardini in the fourth minute and was solid as a rock for the rest of the match.

Chiellini: 8.0- His powerful forward run won the corner kick that led to Salihamidzic’s goal and kept Di Vaio in his back pocket as well.

Mellberg: 7.0- Calm and composed at the back this evening even when Bologna opened the scoring.

Grygera: 7.0- Managed to gallop forward on occasion and his deliveries were top notch more often than not.

Salihamidzic: 8.0- His glancing header brought the match onto level terms and he also had a hand in the other three goals. Easily the best match of his injury-stricken season.

Marchisio: 7.5- After a fairly pedestrian first half, he stormed back to take over the midfield in the second 45 minutes and the floodgates opened up in the process.

Tiago: 5.0- He was caught in possession one time too many and missed a glorious chance in the 37 minute and was mercifully substituted to start the second half

Giovinco: 8.5- The pint-sized playmaker caused Bologna all sorts of problems on the left-hand side and was deservedly rewarded with a goal tonight. He was the man of the match. Simply mesmerising this evening.

Iaquinta: 7.0- You could tell he desperately he wanted to add his name to the score-sheet but it was not to be. Did pick up an assist when he set up Giovinco nicely for Juve’s second goal of the game.

Del Piero: 8.0- Missed an absolute sitter in the 38th minute but atoned for that error with two goals that put the match beyomd Bologna, and could have had a hat-trick if his shot did not hit the upright late in the game

SUBS: Poulsen (46”) 7.5, Daud (88”) NA Immobile (90”) NA

Goal.com

Player Ratings: Juventus 2-2 Chelsea

Alan Dawson looks at the individual performers in Chelsea's 2-2 draw at Juventus in the Champions League...
10 Mar 2009 22:35:43
JUVENTUS

Buffon: 7.0 - Got hold of a powerful Didier Drogba free-kick that looked like it had suspiciously wrapped itself around the post and passed the line, but was quick to squeeze the ball out back into play to cause confusion into the the linesman's mind and the referee waved play on.

Grygera: 6.5 - An unfussy display, did his job fairly well while others excelled around him. Had a hard time dealing with the flowing runs of Ashley Cole, though. Kept a decent head.

Mellberg: 7.5 - Along with Chiellini he was very impressive at the back for large portions of the game. Rock solid when Chelsea tried to counter.

Chiellini: 6.0 - Scooped danger away with relative ease whenever Chelsea flirted with his box. Cautioned for taking out Michael Ballack with a robust sliding challenge. Received a second yellow and was consequently dismissed. There was a challenge involved - that was clean - so presumably it was for a puerile reaction.

Molinaro: 7.5 - An effervescent display down the attacking left back and looked to make things happen. Nicely played. Has good style.

Tiago: 7.5 - Tried to play a mixture of balls, and sprayed the simple passes with ease. Looked to release team-mates with early through balls that, during the opening exchanges, failed to meet the target as they were snuffed out by a mixture of Blues. Proved to be a handful. Quick hustle in the middle of the park.

Marchisio: 7.0 - A hard-working and tireless display in a compact unit of three midfielders that seemed to be everywhere. Combined well with Del Piero.

Nedved: N/a - A couple of knocks early on required the Czech international to leave the field of play before he was allowed back. Had to be substituted in the first half.

Iaquinta: 7.5 - Opened the scoring in the 18th minute to give the home fans all to hope for. Waited for the right moment before he struck, and coolly rounded the ball past Cech. Made way for Sebastian Giovinco in the second half.

Del Piero: 7.5 - Pressurised Chelsea's box after Iaquinta's opener and had Cech flapping with a powerful shot. Smelt danger, pounced. Worked well in both the final third, and the midfield. Strong headers, one was direct at the glovesman though. Challenged Cech at opportune moments. It was his free kick that led to the penalty which he himself duly, and coolly, slotted home. Cech was beaten.

Trezeguet: 7.5 - Superb touch led to Iaquinta's goal. Chest and go. Great touches throughout the game, and could have restored Juventus' lead when he headed goal-ward and prompted Petr Cech to pull the save of the game out of his metaphorical bag. Was a terror in the box throughout the second half.

Substitutions -

Salihamidzic: 6.0 - Replaced Nedved early on to decent effect.

Giovinco: 7.5 - Was a real difference maker in the short space of time that he was on the pitch.


CHELSEA

Cech: 7.5 - Few unconvincing claims were spilled and juggled early on. Looked shaky the longer Juventus worked the Blues. His collection grew in conviction as the game wore on. Stood ground well and positioned himself soundly. Adjudged to have handled outside the area, and booked. Denied a glorious David Trezeguet header with a splendid reactionary save. Also saved a great Giovinco effort. Kept his eye on the ball. Was sent the wrong way for Alessandro's spot kick.

Bosingwa: 6.0 - Took his time getting into the game as his flank was bombarded by Molinaro and he failed to track his markers and allowed Juve too much room in the early stages.

Terry: 7.0 - Kept strong feet to left blast a tricky box-bound ball out of the penalty box.

Alex: 7.0 - Partnered John Terry well and was quick to snuff out danger. Intercepted well, especially when the game was hanging on by a thread.

A Cole: 7.0 - Tried to work the ball down the left, and looked a good outlet for Chelsea attacks, but was - more often than not - nudged and dispossessed. Perhaps would have been more effective with a natural wide left-winger stationed in front of him, as opposed to the 4-2-2-2 that was in effectively in existence.

Mikel: 8.0 - Had a lot of work on his hands trying to contain Juventus' midfield. His game is different to Makelele's, but he was especially effective, particularly during the second half when Chelsea were on top.

Ballack: 7.5 - Headed wide with a good over-the-top chance. Had a few decent half-chances to be the difference-maker. Picked out Belletti who provided the assist for Drogba's equaliser. Had a late chance to win the game but was denied by Buffon.

Essien: 8.0 - His comeback began in underwhelming fashion, but gradually grew on and showed excellent bravery to get his goal - especially after returning from such a long and complicated injury. Was superb to the rebound following Lampard's strike, and tucked the ball away.

Lampard: 8.0 - Had to track back as all the action in the opening stages in the first half was dominated by constant Juventus pressure. So his playmaking and attacking style was initially diminished, and his box-to-box play was limited to his own box, and he looked to relieve danger. Inspired Chelsea with some good forward running late in the first half though. It was his strike led to Essien's predatory goal.

Drogba: 8.0 - Only saw the ball when route one tactics were employed and he could try to work his muscle. In a similar vein to his team-mates, he was more influential as the game wore on and Juve tired. Got the ball well over the line with a powerfully driven shot, but was denied by suspect linesmanning. Bullied substitute Giovinco by tripping the kid while his back was turned. Struck his fourth goal in five games to wrap up the draw.

Anelka: 6.0 - Like Drogba, saw very little of the ball early on. Was all to often isolated up front.

Substitutions -

Belletti: 6- Gave away the penalty for a blatant handball following a Del Piero free kick. Slightly redeemed himself by providing the assist for Drogba's goal.

Carvalho: N/A

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Lady luck says no!

Once upon a time the Champions League was called the “jinxed cup” and if there was a night when this statement was proven true was today. Juve eliminated not withstanding a great match overflowing with determination and good will. Juventus leave the competition with the applauses of the public.

The first half is a hyperbole in itself. Juventus start off really well and look really determined. On the first minute a good cross by Molinaro into the area sees Trezeguet heading high. Two minutes later a good Nedved run who tries a first time to shoot, keeps the ball and is then fouled with the referee saying to play on. The day will not be a lucky one for the Czech fury.

On the 4th minute a corner for Juve after a good Grygera run sees the cross being deviated. One minute later a ball into the area is headed by Chiellini but the defence clears. On the 6th minute another corner for Juve after a good pass to Nedved by Molinaro is deviated. Two minutes later Nedved wins a good ball and is fouled. The foul will cost Nedved having to be substituted by Salihamidzic.

The 12th minute sees a good long ball by Del Piero towards Trezeguet but the defence anticipates. One minute later a ball into the Juve area is easily gathered by Buffon and seconds after a Chiellini mistake sees Ballack taking advantage but the ball goes wide.

Juventus build up the pressure and on the 18th minute a dangerous cross into the Chelsea area sees Cech in difficulty but the strikers are not close enough. One minute later Juve get the goal they want: great ball to Iaquinta to Trezeguet who enters the area and shoots depositing at the back of Cech for the opener.

The 21st minute sees Del Piero with a great shot from outside the area forcing Cech to a difficult save into corner. One minute later the ball from the flag into the area with the keeper puching away. From the rebound Molinaro puts the ball back into the area and Cech clears badly but none of the strikers manages to head home.

On the 25th minute Del Piero controls a good ball crosses to Brazzo who crosses into the area for Trezeguet but the Frenchman is anticipated. One minute later there is a free-kick for Juve from 38 meters. Del Piero tries a direct hit but Cech saves easily. On the 35th minute there is a good ball into the Chelsea area but Cech anticipates.

The 44th minute sees the referee awarding a free-kick toChelsea for an inexistent Tiago handsball: Buffon saves brilliantly on a powerful Drogba shot set to enter. One minute later Lampard shoots from outside the area, the shot is deviated, the ball hits the post and then Essien pushes it in for the equlaiser. At this point Juve need to score twice more to go through.

The second half starts off with Juventus once again showing determination. On the first minute Iaquinta is off-side as he receives the ball in the area. Two minutes later there is a free-kick for Juve : Del Piero puts the ball into the area but the defence clears. On the 4th minute the ball is put into the area for Iaquinta but Terry covers well.

On the 5th minute there is a free-kick for Chelsea: Buffon punches away. Three minutes later yet another free-kick against Juve but Buffon cradles the ball. On the 13th minute there is a ball into the Cheslea area but it goes wide and there is nobody to receive. The 15th minute a good cross into the area withobody managing to stop. The ball however is once again crossed with Del Piero who heads but Cech gathers. Giovinco comes on for a good Iaquinta. The fresh pair of legs leave their effect and on the 17th minute Giovinco crosses into the area, the ball is deviated, and Cech is shown the yellow card for handling the ball from outside the area. Del Piero from the free-kick crosses into the area, Giovinco shoots but the ball goes high.

On the 19th minute the ball is put into the Chelsea area, Trezeguet heads and Cech saves with difficulty. Three minutes later there is a free-kick for Juve: Giovinco puts a good ball into the area, Del Piero misses by inches and Cech gathers. The 25th minute brings bad news as Chiellini is sent-off for a second yellow card. One minute later there is a free-kick for Juve: ball into the area by Del Piero, the ball is handed in the area and the referee gives the penalty. Del Piero from the 11 meters sends the ball to one side and Cech to the other: 2-1.

Juventus get back into the game and must now score a third. On the 31st minute Giovinco crosses after a good run but the defence clears. Seconds later Giovinco tries a shot upon entering the area but the defence deviates to a corner. Two minutes later Amauri comes on for Trezeguet. On the 37th minute Juve receive the fatal blow: bBall into the Juve area with Drogba ready to slide it in for the 2-2.

Juve realize that it’s practically over and on the 40th minute the ball is put into the area with Cech ready to save. On the 42nd minute there is a free-kick for Juve for a foul on Giovinco. The referee awards a goal-kick even though there was a deviation. In the second minute out of four of stoppage time Belletti misses a sitter in front of Buffon who deviates into corner. It’s over: luck had it’s toll on Juve once again.

Champions League, Final 16 – 2nd leg
Turin, Stadio Olimpico
Tuesday 10th March 2009

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA: 2-2

Goals: Iaquinta (19th), Essien (46th), Del Piero (pen. 73rd), Drogba (83rd),

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Grygera, Mellberg, Chiellini, Molinaro; Nedved (Salihamidzic 14th), Marchisio, Tiago, , Del Piero, Iaquinta (Giovinco 60th), Trezeguet (Amauri 78th). Reserves: Manninger, Zebina, Ariaudo, Salihamidzic, Poulsen, Giovinco, Amauri. Coach: Ranieri.

CHELSEA: Cech; Cole, Alex (Carvalho 88th), Bosingwa , Terry; Mikel, Lampard, Ballack; Essien (Belletti 65th); Drogba, Anelka. Reserves: Hilario, Carvalho, Kalou, Mancienne, Malouda, Belletti, Deco. Coach: Hiddink.

Referee: Mallenco

Yellow Cards: Salihamidzic (46th), Chiellini (53rd), Cech (62nd), Drogba (69th), Chiellini (70th), Cole (87th), Anelka (91st), Lampard (91st),

Red card: Chiellini (70th)

A defeat which leaves hope

The defeat at the Roma Olimpico in the first leg of the Coppa Italia against Lazio leaves some hope for the return match which will be played in no less then 50 days.

A fiery start to the match with Juventus playing great football and Lazio responding to the initiatives of the bianconeri. On the first minute a good Marchionni pass reaches Iaquinta who shoots with the ball going slightly wide. Two minutes later an Amauri cross into the area is too long. On the 4th minute a Lazio attack sees Juve defenders prepared and although the ball still reaches the forwards, Manninger had no difficulty in cradling the ball.

The 6th minute sees a corner for Juve: Nedved puts the ball in the area, Mellberg takes the ball but the defence clears. On the 13th minute Pandev is seen in a dangerous initiative with the Juve defence clearing. One minute later Tiago puts a good through ball for Nedved who passes to Iaquinta who enters the area and shoots with the keeper saving.

Manninger surely has not come off-form since the recovery of Buffon and is determined to prove this once again on a Rocchi shot on the 15th minute. Two minutes later Iaquinta scores but the goal is unjustly disallowed for off-side and seconds after a dangerous Lazio ball goes inches wide.

On the 21st minute there is a corner for Juventus after a deviation from a Nedved free-kick. The 27th minute sees a good Manninger save on a ball in the area and one minute later Nedved tries a shot to the top corner after a good Tiago pass but the ball goes high.

The efforts of the bianconeri are rewarded for their efforts on the 34th minute: Marchionni shoots from outside the area after receiving a Molinaro cross and the ball is at the back of the net for the lead – 0-1. Two minutes later there is a good Tiago ball ahead to Iaquinta but the keeper anticipates the forward. On the 37th minute there is once again a great Manninger save on a Rocchi shot.

One minute later Sissoko is shown the yellow card and will miss the 2nd leg. Free-kick for Lazio: Ledesma shoots and Manninger performs a brilliant save. On the 39th minute there is a corner for Juve after a good Molinaro run: ball into the area but the defence clears.

The 40th minute sees a good ball into the Lazio area with Amauri passing to Iaquinta but the defence clears. Three minutes later a dangerous Rocchi initiative sees the ball going slightly wide. On the 44th minute Molinaro enters into the area and shoots with the ball being deviated into corner.

The second half was a rather different story with the roles somehow inverted. On the 1st minute a corner for Juve saw a ball in the area being cleared by the defence. One minute later a ball goes slightly wide from a Matuzalem shot. On the 3rd minute a Foggia ball into the area is cleared by Chiellini and Iaquinta on the counter-attack puts the ball too much forward to control.

On the 4th minute a good Molinaro cross sees the keeper anticipate Amauri. Three minutes later Manfredini puts a dangerous ball into the area for Rocchi with the ball going wide and a couple of minutes after it is once again Matuzalem who shoots from outside the area but the ball goes wide.

The 12th minute sees a corner for Juve: the ball reaches Tiago but the powerful shot hits the defence. Two minutes later Sissoko is substituted by Marchisio. On the 17th minute there is a free-kick for Lazio: ball dangerously into the area and Tiago clears into touch. The 19th minute is the turning point of the match: Manninger performs a first good save but Pandev from the re-bound turns and strikes home for the equalizer.

On the 21st minute Iaquinta passes to Amauri after a good run but the shot is cleared by the defence. One minute later Manninger deviates into corner after a Foggia shot. Poulsen comes on for Tiago on the 24th minute. Seconds later there is a free-kick for Lazio and yellow card for Chiellini. Manninger saves on Rocchi.

On the 26th minute there is a corner for Lazio but the final shot goes wide. Two minutes later good work on preparation by Juve but the final cross is too low. The half-hour sees Mauri shooting inches wide sending shivers down the Juve spines. Two minutes later a Molinaro cross is deviated into corner from which the ball is put into the area but the keeper saves. Seconds later Rocchi puts Lazio ahead after entering the area.

The 34th minute sees Trezeguet on for Amauri. Three minutes later a Iaquinta cross is deviated into touch. It is nine minutes later when Marchionni puts a good ball into the area, Trezeguet stops but is anticipated.

Coppa Italia – Semi-finals 1st leg
Rome, Stadio Olimpico
Tuesday 3rd March 2009

LAZIO – JUVENTUS: 1-2

Scorers: Marchionni (34th), Pandev (65th), Rocchi (78th),

LAZIO: Muslera; Lichsteiner (De Silvestri 78th), Siviglia, Cribari; Kolarov, Manfredini (Mauri 56th), Ledesma, Matuzalem, Foggia (Brocchi 85th); Rocchi, Pandev. Reserves: Carrizo, De Silvestri, Rozenhal, Radu, Brocchi, Mauri, Inzaghi. Coach: Rossi

JUVENTUS: Manninger; Grygera, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, Molinaro; Marchionni, Sissoko (Marchisio 59th), Tiago (Poulsen 68th), Nedved; Amauri (Trezeguet 78th), Iaquinta. Reserves: Chimenti, Ariaudo, Marchisio, Poulsen, Salihamidzic, Giovinco, Trezeguet. Coach: Ranieri.

Referee: Tagliavento

Yellow Card: Matuzalem (14th), Iaquinta (16th), Grygera (31st), Sissoko (38th), Chiellini (69th)


*juventus.com