Friday 12 March
Month out for Del Piero
Alessandro Del Piero’s injury is less serious than first thought - even if he will still be out of action for a month. Del Piero limped out of the 1-0 loss against Deportivo La Coruna on Tuesday amidst fears that his season could virtually be over.
There were fears that the Juventus ace could be sidelined for up to 50 days after he sustained a calf injury. Yet tests carried out on the No 10 earlier today have suggested that he should be back in around four weeks.
Had the problem been a bit more serious then he could have been a major doubt for the 2004 European Championships. However, he may now be back in mid April which should give him enough time to fully recover ahead of the Portuguese Finals.
His return has already been pencilled in for the Week 29 clash against Lazio or the Week 30 Serie A game at Parma on April 18.
Juventus players injuries update
The Juventus treatment room isn’t so empty though as they will be without Trezeguet, Iuliano, Zambrotta, Birindelli and Del Piero.
The good news is that boss Marcello Lippi will have more options than he did against Deportivo La Coruna on Tuesday. Antonio Conte should be drafted back into the side after his suspension, while Igor Tudor and Enzo Maresca have recovered from injury.
There is also great optimism that Fabrizio Miccoli will be fit enough to start after he limped off in the midweek 1-0 defeat. There were fears that he may have torn a thigh muscle but tests carried out today have ruled out that possibility.
Juventus act on plans for squad strengthening
Tribal Football
Speculation rumbles on over how Juventus GM Luciano Moggi is planning to strengthen next season's squad.
At the end of the season, loan players Andrea Gasbarroni (Palermo), Emanuele Blasi (Parma) and Matteo Brighi (Brescia) will return to the club and are expected to stay for the next campaign.
Moggi will also press for Sparta Prague defender Tomas Hubschmann when the summer market opens, along with Parma pair Alberto Gilardino and Daniele Bonera.
He is also keen to try and prise Stefano Fiore away from Lazio and has registered his interest with the representatives of Ajax fullback Hatem Trabelsi.
Real Madrid linked with Juventus coach Lippi
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Marcello Lippi has been linked with Real Madrid.
Lippi is expected to leave Juve at the end of a disappointing season and is favourite to replace Giovanni Trapattoni as Italy coach after this year's European Championships.
However, it's been suggested Real chiefs are seeking talks with Lippi to discuss the possibility of moving to Spain next season. The Italian coach has admitted a desire to work abroad in recent weeks.
Inter Milan, Arsenal watch Benfica youngster Tiago
Tribal Football
Inter Milan chiefs kept tabs on Benfica midfielder Tiago last night as the two clubs met in the UEFA Cup.
The 22 year-old Portuguese playmaker was also scouted by Arsenal and Olympique Marseille at the San Siro as Europe's bigger clubs begin to circle ahead of the summer market.
Benfica are believed to be asking around £4 million for Tiago, who is emerging as one of the most sought after midfielders in Portuguese football.
Portugal coach Felipe Scolari had earlier recommended Tiago to Juventus as a replacement for Edgar Davids, "before other clubs got him".
Juventus press for Ajax pair Ibrahimovic, Trabelsi
Tribal Football
Juventus have held talks with Ajax over Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Hatem Trabelsi.
Gazzetta dello Sport says Juve plan to use the cash raised from selling David Trezeguet to Barcelona to bring both Ajax stars to Turin.
Ibrahimovic admitted last week that Juve were his favourite team, while Trabelsi has been followed by the club's GM, Luciano Moggi, since the end of last season.
Meanwhile, Juve are promoting youngsters Viktor Boudianski and Davide Chiumento from their Primavera squad to the senior setup.
Juventus after Pedretti
Soccerage
Following their abrupt elimination from the Champions League, Juventus are trying to build the team for the future.
One of their main objectives is playmaker Benoit Pedretti. The Sochaux player would be available for around 3 million Euros, however Marseilles are hot on his heels too.
Lazio eye Cheva favour
Lazio could win the race to sign Lecce striker Ernesto Chevanton with the help of European champions Milan.
The Rossoneri are one of the leading clubs in the chase for the Uruguayan but the capital outfit are hoping they will withdraw their interest.
Reports suggest that Lazio are set to ask Milan to ignore the striker in return for the services of Jaap Stam. The Dutchman will leave the Stadio Olimpico in the summer, with Milan just one of a number of clubs keen on the stopper.
That could leave the door open for Lazio to net the Lecce youngster who has been nothing short of sensational this term. He’s been regularly finding the net in Serie A which will inevitably see him join a bigger club at the end of this season.
Lazio are very interested in the 23-year-old and believe he would be an ideal partner for Bernardo Corradi in Rome.
Although the Biancocelesti are short of cash, it is believed they will look to finance the transfer by selling Claudio Lopez to either Atletico Madrid or Valencia.
Thursday 11 March
Juventus set for revolution
Football Italia
Coach Marcello Lippi and some big name players may be heading out of Juventus after their Champions' League exit. The Italian side were surprisingly eliminated by Deportivo La Coruña last night after a 2-0 aggregate victory.
That has inevitably led to speculation that the squad could be revamped at the end of the season — especially if they also fail to retain Lo Scudetto.
Many believe that boss Lippi may have taken charge of his final Champions' League tie for the immediate future. Although he is tied to the Delle Alpi outfit until 2005, he is being tipped to replace Giovanni Trapattoni on the Azzurri bench after this summer's European Championships.
Yet there is also the real possibility that Juve will sacrifice some big name players in order to balance their books. The club are set to make a loss for the first time in seven years and the directors are keen to put that right.
Juve could have netted another £20m if they reached the Champions' League Final again this term but that will obviously now not occur. Three Juventus players in particular seem to be the most likely departures at the end of this season.
The first is Pavel Nedved. Despite being the European Footballer of the Year, Juve may cash in on the 31-year-old as they did with Zinedine Zidane.
Another is David Trezeguet who has yet to sign a new deal with the Old Lady. Barcelona and Chelsea are interested.
French international stopper Lilian Thuram may also be sacrificed, with Real Madrid being recently linked.
Meanwhile, Lippi may be without eight first team regulars for the game against Milan on Sunday. That after Fabrizio Miccoli became the latest injury doubt. Maresca, Zambrotta, Tudor, Iuliano, Birindelli, Trezeguet and Del Piero are all currently sidelined.
Should Juve lose to Milan then their championship hopes will be virtually over. That would leave them with just the Coppa Italia to play for having booked a final place against Lazio.
Moggi hangs on to Lippi
Football Italia
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has shot down reports that Marcello Lippi, David Trezeguet and Pavel Nedved will leave next season.
"We are not looking for alibis," said the transfer guru after their shock Champions' League exit, "but we were unlucky to have seven players ruled out with injury."
"We have the utmost faith in Lippi and he did what he could with a decimated squad. He will be with this club next season as well."
The double defeat to Deportivo La Coruña sparked talk of a revolution at the Turin giants to change an ageing defence and ineffective midfield.
"The fans can relax," continued Moggi in this evening's press conference. "I will do my best to reinforce the side without going crazy."
This was the first time in seven years that Juve failed to turn a profit, so with such an early exit from Europe sales must be made to prevent further losses.
Trezeguet is the main candidate to be sacrificed with Barcelona showing interest, but Moggi shut out all speculation. "Trezeguet is staying here."
Nedved and Lilian Thuram are also heavily linked with big moves to Spain or England, although the director general also ruled out sweeping changes in even the weakest areas of the side.
"The same team, with the seven missing players included, was considered invincible only a few months ago," he insisted.
Several club decisions are now under fire, such as the failure to pick up a midfielder or defender during the transfer window.
"There were no January signings because nobody expected so many injuries to pile up at the same time."
Above all, last night's defeat highlighted how much Edgar Davids – now on loan at Barcelona – has been missed.
"The Davids situation was different," noted Moggi. "He wanted to leave and hadn't played very much towards the end. Besides, we have faith in the suggestions of our Coach."
Moggi also commented that there will be purchases this season, even though the only confirmed transfers are the return of Manuele Blasi and Matteo Brighi. However he emphasized Juve's philosophy of not paying crazy money for any player.
Alex out for six weeks?
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero's season could virtually be over after he picked up an injury in the 1-0 loss to Deportivo La Coruña.
The Italian limped out of Juve's Champions' League exit last night after just six minutes with a suspected calf strain.
Although boss Marcello Lippi insists that it will take a couple of days to evaluate the problem, there are fears that he could be out for as long as 50 days.
The No 10 picked up a similar injury in the Week 3 tie against Roma earlier this term that kept him sidelined for six weeks.
Given the fact that the creative ace usually takes time to find his form after injuries, Italy's Euro 2004 plans may also be affected.
Del Piero is a key figure for Giovanni Trapattoni's side alongside Francesco Totti and Christian Vieri in attack.
Should Del Piero not be at his very best in Portugal then Trap could well unleash Roma's Antonio Cassano in his role.
Meanwhile, Juventus crashed out of Europe last night following the 2-0 aggregate reverse.
"The goal that we conceded was my fault," admitted veteran stopper Ciro Ferrara. "I called for it, I made a mistake and Pandiani scored."
Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon added: "Our psychological strength is still intact. The problems are the injuries that we have which makes things difficult for the Coach."
Henry speaks fondly of Juventus
Soccerage
Arsenal striker Thierry Henry, in an exclusive Interview with Italian daily 'Corriere della Sera', has revealed his thoughts on Arsenal, the Champions League and Serie A.
"Last year after the win at the Olimpico against Roma (3-1, hat-trick by Henry) we seemed unbeatable," he said. "And in fact since then we did not win, a run of 5 consecutive negative results. Arsenal are not among the greatest in the Champions League history. If you play with Milan or Real Madid, everyone expects you to win in Europe, but with Arsenal it's different. The favourites are the usual: Milan with their usual 0-0, 1-0, and naturally Real. Each year there is a surprise: I hope that this year's surprise team is us. I'm sorry for Juve's elimination."
Who will win the Italian league? "With my heart I reply Juventus, as a neutral spectator I say Roma. I still have many friends at Juve, Trezeguet, Thuram, Del Piero, Montero, Iuliano. Extraordinary guys. When I arrived there I was worried and scared. I was wrong. They made me feel at home right away. The best example is Del Piero, not only is he a great player, but also a wonderful person. In Turin on the pitch it didn't go well, but outside of the pitch it went very well. I still have beautiful memories of those 6 months, that's why I still side with Juve."
But Roma... "Ah, Roma is a beauty to watch. A real pleasure. There is something in the atmosphere, the stadium, the shirt, that makes her unique. And then they always have some great Brazilian player. And Totti? It's useless to talk about him because he is great."
In the Fifa World Player Award, where Henry came second, Totti did not even receive a vote.
"Difficult to believe," Henry continued. "Raul comes to mind: I can't understand how it is possible that with all that he won, no one has awarded him the Golden Ball yet. Football is strange.
"However apart from Totti, Cassano impresses me too. If he wants he can become one of the best in the world. I know he has a strong character, but this is something that distinguishes many champions. On the pitch he's super intelligent. He's not tall, not very fast, not strong physically, but when he has the ball... He has out of the norm qualities. Then they also have Dacourt, Emerson, Samuel, my friend Zebina, with whom I used to play when I was a kid. And Mancini: the symbol of what it means to play for Roma. You must improve yourself or you don't find a place. They always play with the ball on the ground; if you don't have the technical qualities, you can't do it."
And what of Inter who defeated Arsenal 3-0 at Highbury only to be thrashed 5-1 in the return leg at San Siro, which was a turning point in the Gunners' season: "Incredible. Difficult to say what is happening, maybe they don't even know, however from outside, in my opinion Inter remains a great team. Probably it's just a matter of time."
Henry also uttered the words that all Gunners fans love to hear
"They bought me in a difficult moment, and without them I wouldn't be here today," he said. "I'm glad to be able to give something back on the pitch. That is why all the transfer speculations about me make me laugh, even though I know they're part of the game. Unluckily I have to pay for the way certain colleagues of mine act, where one day they kiss the badge and the next day they are photographed with the shirt of a new club. Those that know me, know that I'm different."
Nedved: If Juve Don't Want Me, I'll Try Another Club
Soccerage
Juventus star Pavel Nedved maintains that he wants to stay at the club, despite the Bianconeri being knocked out of the Champions League at the hands of Deportivo.
The Czech midfielder was once again denied the chance to play in the final, after missing last year's clash with Milan through suspension.
"I wanted it so much and so I am in pieces," he told Tuttosport, "But I am tough and I will try again with even more effort."
And can Nedved envisage reaching a future final with Juve?: "For me yes, but if the club decides otherwise then I will try with another club."
Juventus to secure Miccoli to new contract
Tribal Football
Juventus are in advanced talks with Fabrizio Miccoli over a new contract extension.
The Italian international midfielder only moved to Juve from Perugia last year, signing a deal to 2007 in the process.
But such has been his success this season, in a disappointing team, that Juve chief Luciano Moggi wants to tie Miccoli to a new, two-year contract extension.
Sources close to the deal predict an announcement will be made before the end of April.
Monaco coach Deschamps lined up by Juventus
Tribal Football
AS Monaco coach Didier Deschamps is being linked with Marcello Lippi's job at Juventus.
Elimination from the Champions League has put Lippi's future in doubt in Turin and speculation is increasing that a deal is being brokered with former Juve favourite Deschamps to fill the hotseat.
Juve chief Luciano Moggi is also chasing two Monaco players in defender Sebastien Squillaci and midfielder Jerome Rothen. The arrival of Deschamps would strengthen Moggi's hand when negotiating with both Frenchman.
Casiraghi comments on Juventus
Former Juventus, Lazio and Chelsea forward Pierluigi Casiraghi has said that Juve's loss to Deportivo happened for many reasons, but they should not be judged by that one loss, as many things could change as Juve are playing Serie A leaders this weekend.
"Even with so many players out injured, they could still field a competitive side. A win against Milan will change the outlook of the Championship."
He also does not believe that Juve will sell Nedved, Trezeguet and Thuram, who have been continually linked with moves away.
Wednesday 10 March
Juventus 0 Deportivo 1
Del Piero frustrated with injury
Del Piero limps off
Del Piero lying on the sideline
Deportivo's Pandiani scores
Nedved and Di Vaio dejected
UEFA.com
Deportivo La Coruña inflicted a painful revenge on Juventus for knocking them out of last season's UEFA Champions League, by defeating the 2003 runners-up in both legs of their first knockout round encounter to advance to the quarter-finals.
Deportivo's first-ever success in Turin came courtesy of Walter Pandiani's first-half goal and a magnificently competitive display of man-marking and tight defending in the home of catenaccio.
The match had barely taken shape before two key events changed the entire complexion of what had already seemed a demanding test for Juventus. Alessandro Del Piero had predicted before the match that Juve needed a "perfect performance". He might have added that they required a little luck too.
Already hampered by the absence of six potentially first-choice players through injury or suspension, it took only six minutes for Del Piero to limp off with an injury to his right leg. Until that point it had been curious to watch Marcello Lippi's drastically adjusted formation with Nicola Legrottaglie playing as the man marker on Juan Carlos Valerón in front of a three-man defence.
Valerón, who ran the show in the first leg, was largely unhindered by the tactic, dragging the former AC Chievo Verona defender further and further down the pitch. And within six minutes of Fabrizio Miccoli replacing Del Piero, Deportivo had their vital away goal.
From a loose ball deep in the Spanish side's half, the goalkeeper José Molina volleyed a long punt upfield. As Pandiani tussled with his Uruguay team-mate Paolo Montero, the defender inadvertently nudged the ball into Pandiani's path and his right-footed shot soared into the top corner.
The teams exchanged half-chances, Pavel Nedved going close in the 22nd minute and Pandiani trying a spectacular overhead kick which screamed wide, before the game was lit up by two extraordinary moments.
In the 32nd minute a deflected cross left Albert Luque free to line up a shot from just beyond the penalty spot. The chance was gift-wrapped to end the tie but a phenomenal lunging block by Ciro Ferrara — penalty-box defending at its best — prevented the goal.
Four minutes later, from Lilian Thuram's deflected shot, Miccoli was unmarked and able to shoot fiercely from two metres out. However, Molina instinctively jumped to his right and showed great strength to parry the raging drive.
Lippi was forced to shuffle his pack at half-time, substituting Legrottaglie with Gianluca Pessotto and switching to a 4-4-2 formation.
Juventus changed the pace in the second half and threatened, but Portuguese international Jorge Andrade was imperious at the back and made four crucial interventions in succession to keep the Italians at bay. Then Molina topped Deportivo's display with a fantastic save from Miccoli's 65th-minute free-kick, which had been heading for the top corner.
When Stephen Appiah's powerful 27-metre shot cannoned back off the bar, it was evident that this was not Juve's night and Deportivo could have added insult to injury in added time when they broke away, but Nourredine Naybet's effort also hit the crossbar.
Football Italia
Alex Del Piero faces a long injury lay-off and Juventus crash out of the Champions' League to Deportivo La Coruña.
The Bianconeri needed to win by two clear goals in order to overturn their 1-0 defeat at the Riazor, but were troubled by an injury crisis.
David Trezeguet, Enzo Maresca, Igor Tudor, Gianluca Zambrotta, Alessandro Birindelli and the suspended Antonio Conte were out of action. So, Marcello Lippi completely revolutionised his tactical system to use Nicola Legrottaglie in front of a three-man defence, while Alessandro Del Piero and Marco Di Vaio started upfront. Deportivo opted to leave Diego Tristan on the bench, while first leg goalscorer Luque was again on show.
Pavel Nedved had a shot charged down by a defender's arm after four minutes, but in that same move Del Piero suffered a suspected right calf strain and immediately asked for a substitution. The captain has struggled with muscular problems throughout the campaign and could be out of action for several weeks.
Fabrizio Miccoli stepped on to the field, but the psychological blow of losing Del Piero so early clearly shook the side.
And Deportivo La Coruña struck on the counter-attack with Walter Pandiani. The Spaniards took full advantage of confusion between Ciro Ferrara and Paolo Montero to curl the ball past a helpless Gianluigi Buffon.
Miccoli was furious when he was halted for an offside decision that replays showed to be incorrect.
Soon after a well-worked move saw Di Vaio cut back a taut cross that Mauro Camoranesi drilled wide of the near post.
Nedved again went close when he ran on to Camoranesi's precise lifted pass, but the Balon d'Or winner just failed to toe-poke it past Molina.
The Juventus players were becoming increasingly irritated with the linesman as four offside decisions in a row were incorrect.
Deportivo could afford to sit back and hit them on the break and Pandiani turned a bicycle-kick wide of the target, then Luque's effort was charged down and Victor drilled inches past the near post.
Confidence and the pace of the game gradually grew towards the end of the first half and Molina performed a fantastic reaction stop on Miccoli's volley from eight yards.
Lippi changed back to a four-man defence by replacing Legrottaglie with Gianluca Pessotto for the second half, using Lilian Thuram as a fullback.
Andrade was forced into a crucial intervention as Miccoli's through ball was moving towards the outstretched foot of Di Vaio, but it was increasingly difficult to find space as Depor shut up shop.
The best chances therefore came from set-pieces and Molina flew to palm out a brilliant Miccoli free kick. On the resulting corner Ciro Ferrara's header skimmed the far post.
Soon after a well-worked move fell apart when Camoranesi's final pass was intercepted, but the Argentine slipped at the crucial moment.
Stephen Appiah nearly scored the goal of the season when he aimed a half-volley at the goal from 30 metres, but it rattled the crossbar.
There was a bizarre moment when one of the sprinklers on the side of the pitch went into action and soaked several nearby players.
Miccoli then sprung the offside trap and ballooned inches wide of the near post, but time was running out.
Lippi had to gamble and threw on Italian-Swiss 'Primavera' starlet Davide Chiumiento for the final 20 minutes. The teenage hitman only made his Serie A debut a fortnight ago.
Appiah was overall disappointing, but he brought another tough save out of Molina from distance.
Deportivo could have made it 3-0 on aggregate, 2-0 on the night, when Naybet's chip struck the bar.
Soccernet
Juventus' obsession with winning the Champions League will eat away at their fans, players and coach for at least another season after they crashed out of this year's competition at the hands of Deportivo La Coruña.
Walter Pandiani's goal for the visitors, who led 1-0 from the first leg, in the 12th minute left Juve needing three goals to progress into the quarter-finals, and the cushion proved more than enough as a disappointing Juve side lacked inspiration throughout.
Juve can point to their injury problems — striker David Trezeguet was missing while Alessandro Del Piero limped out of the action after only five minutes — but they can have no complaints about their elimination as they looked second best for most of both legs.
So the Turin giants must now reflect on why they were found so badly wanting, while nobody will want to meet Javier Irureta's slick Deportivo side in the last eight.
Juve restored skipper Del Piero to the starting line-up after he had been rested for the Serie A win at Brescia on Saturday, with Fabrizio Miccoli dropping to the bench.
But the Italian champions must have guessed it would not be their night when the Italy international had to leave the field in the early stages.
The 29-year-old playmaker pulled up with what looked like a recurrence of a calf injury, just seconds after he had sent a teasing cross into the Depor area.
Miccoli replaced Del Piero, but things became even worse for the Turin giants in the 12th minute.
Uruguayan Paolo Montero inexplicably failed to head away a long clearance from Depor keeper Jose Molina, and his international team-mate Pandiani took full advantage, controlling the ball before driving a superb shot into the top left-hand corner.
The goal left Juve punch drunk and they struggled to regain their composure, Mauro Camoranesi firing wide in the 16th minute after Marco Di Vaio had cut the ball back into his path from the left.
Italy international Camoranesi then chipped a clever ball through for Pavel Nedved, but the European Footballer of the Year just failed to get a toe to the ball before Molina came out to claim.
Pandiani was full of confidence after the goal and he almost put the tie beyond any doubt in the 27th minute, his audacious overhead kick flying just wide after Victor's left-wing cross had been deflected into his path by Ciro Ferrara.
Ferrara kept Juve in it five minutes later, showing real courage to throw himself into the path of Albert Luque's fierce left-foot volley, before Miccoli missed a great chance to level the scores on the night when he shot straight at Molina following another clever pass from Camoranesi.
Victor for Depor and Nedved for Juve both squandered acceptable chances as the half drew to a close with the Galicians firmly in charge.
The home fans would have been hoping their side would start the second half with the accelerator pressed to the floor, but they were disappointed as Depor's defence, with Portuguese international Jorge Andrade outstanding, had little difficulty repelling Juve's predictable forays forward.
The only time Marcello Lippi's team really threatened was in a four-minute spell midway through the second half.
First Miccoli saw his 25-yard curling free-kick superbly pushed around the post by Molina, and then Ghanaian midfielder Stephen Appiah was left cursing his luck as his speculative long range effort beat Molina but came back off the crossbar.
Juve's fate was sealed when Miccoli was sent clear by a fine pass from Alessio Tacchinardi in the 68th minute, but the pint-sized forward lost his composure at the vital moment and fired wildly high and wide.
Depor almost put the seal on an accomplished performance with a breakaway goal deep into stoppage time, but Victor chipped his effort against the angle of post and crossbar after being teed up by substitute Diego Tristan.
Irureta pleased with Pandiani
Soccernet
Deportivo coach Javier Irureta basked in his decision to prefer Walter Pandiani to Diego Tristan in attack after the Uruguayan sealed the Spaniards' progress to the quarter-finals.
Pandiani scored the only goal of the second leg in Turin as a lacklustre Juve bowed out 2-0 on aggregate.
And Irureta said: "I chose Pandiani because with a one goal lead to defend from the first leg he seemed the more suited for the kind of game we wanted to play here.
"We controlled the game almost throughout and Pandiani's goal virtually decided it all early on because Juve then needed to score three times.
"It was a much calmer game than we expected even though you know it is never going to be easy away to an Italian team, especially Juventus.
"We are certainly among the best eight sides in Europe, the results show that and I think we are capable of reaching even greater heights."
Lippi: Trophy waits another day
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi claims he won't give up his chase of the Champions' League trophy despite Juve's shock early exit to Deportivo La Coruña.
"Above all the difference between the two teams was psychological," insisted the Coach. "It isn't our best moment, but we nonetheless felt ready to win this."
Alessandro Del Piero's calf strain after just six minutes of the match was a massive blow to the side.
"If you prepare a match in every detail and within 12 minutes you lose one of your most important players to injury and then concede a goal, it ruins everything."
"We tried to fight back and believed it could happen, especially with three or four great chances in the second half, but we obviously regret not being able to play this match to the full as so many players were missing."
The captain was only the latest in a series of setbacks that ruled out David Trezeguet, Enzo Maresca, Igor Tudor, Gianluca Zambrotta, Alessandro Birindelli and the suspended Antonio Conte.
"Del Piero felt a massive pull in his calf and it will take a few days before the tests can show the exact extent of the injury."
With both first choice fullbacks missing, Lippi started with an unusual line-up that saw Nicola Legrottaglie in front of a three-man defence.
"That system was undoubtedly introduced just because of the lack of other defensive options," confirmed the tactician, "and Legrottaglie was meant to hold back Luque after he gave us so many problems in the first leg."
"We really did not expect to concede a goal so early. All the incidents piled up on us one after the other and that sapped the confidence out of the squad."
Lippi had always maintained that the Champions' League was their main objective after losing the Final to Milan last May, but they are now eliminated before the Quarters.
"It will be for another year and we will now look ahead to Sunday's match with Milan," assured Lippi.
"We really wanted to win this trophy and it undoubtedly doesn't help confidence, but this team has always done well to put defeat and glory behind it and look forward to the next challenge."
Alessio Tacchinardi was understandably upset at the final whistle, but still went to salute the fans in the home end.
"Unfortunately we conceded a goal very early on and it really knocked the wind out of us," explained the midfielder.
"It's a great shame, as we tried to fight back and felt that we had the ability to turn this around."
Lippi gives no excuses but laments injuries
Soccernet
Juve boss Marcello Lippi made no effort to avoid using his injury-list as an excuse for the early exit. Lippi was without the likes of David Trezeguet and Igor Tudor, while Alessandro Del Piero left the field injured.
He said: "It's a bitter feeling, very sad to go out of the Champions League, especially as we are used to going all the way. What really saddens me is that we couldn't give ourselves a real chance, with our full compliment of players."
"You need a bit of luck in that sort of situation but we lost Del Piero early on and then gave away a disgraceful goal before straight away missing a chance.
"Despite that we kept trying after the break and had a few chances but you need something to happen to give you some faith," added the Juventus coach.
"But we'll get over this. At this club we are used to being able to cope with adulation and also great disappointment."
Lippi admits: Juventus low on confidence
Tribal Football
Juventus were dumped out of the Champions League last night by Deportivo La Coruña.
Walter Pandiani struck early on, turning veteran Juve pair Ciro Ferrara and Paolo Montero inside-out, before blasting home just 12 minutes into the game.
Afterwards, Juve coach Marcello Lippi admitted: "We're going through a very difficult time. We started the game full of confidence, on the back of the win against Brescia, but the early goal has stunned us and we struggled to recover.
"There is a lack of assertiveness in our play and we have not made the best of our chances tonight. I did try to change the formation, marking Valeron, but also trying to focus on attack."
With AC Milan to face this weekend, Lippi added, "It's obviously not what we wanted going into such a game. But the strength of this squad is that whether we win or lose, the next game is always the most important. It's important we put tonight behind us as quickly as possible and push on."
Lippi: "Everything went wrong"
Soccerage
Juventus manager Marcello Lippi was very disappointed after the defeat with Deportivo La Coruña that put an end to the bianconeri's Champions League.
"Tonight everything went wrong," the manager said. "We had prepared a different kind of game but we didn't mange to do what we wanted".
"We lost our most important player after five minutes and they scored at our first mistake," he added. "When these things happen you start to think that maybe it just isn't meant to happen".
Thuram: "Depor deserved to go through"
Soccerage
Lilian Thuram was very disappointed after the defeat with Deportivo tonight but he thinks that the result was the right one.
"They deserved to go through because they played better in both legs," the French international said. "What makes me really sad is that we tried to do our best but it looked like we were doing nothing and that means that something is wrong. We have a chance to redeem ourselves straight away against AC Milan".
Del Piero injured for up to a month
Yahoo! Italia
Del Piero's injure sustained in the Depor match could see him miss a month of action. If it is a recurrence of the calf injury he got during the Roma match earlier in the season, it could be up to fifty days.
Juventus to scout Hubschmann tonight
Tribal Football
Juventus will have scouts in the stands tomorrow for AC Milan's clash with Sparta Prague.Sparta defender Tomas Hubschman, 22, will be the focus of Juve representatives as the Turin club consider then youngster for the summer market.
Hubschman is also being chased by Olympique Marseille and AS Monaco.
Man Utd scout watches Barcelona defender Puyol
Tribal Football
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is keeping tabs on Barcelona fullback Carles Puyol.
The Spanish international is a big favourite of Fergie's, who sent his brother to watch Barca face Real Mallorca on Sunday.
United are aware that Juventus have asked Barca for Puyol in a cash-plus-player swap for striker David Trezeguet.
Agent: Nothing decided over Man Utd target Jimenez
Tribal Football
The agent of Ternana midfielder Luis Jimenez insists nothing will be decided over the youngster's future until the end of the season.
The Chilean youngster is a confirmed target for Manchester Unietd, while his agent, Pino Letterio, also named Juventus as an interested party.
Letterio told Calciomercato.com: "We want to keep everything calm. Nothing will be decided until the end of the season.
"Juventus have made enquiries, as has several other clubs, including foreign teams. But we won't be rushing into anything."
Tuesday 09 March
No margin of error for Juve
Lippi and Del Piero at Press Conference
UEFA Champions League
Juventus FC are under no illusions as to the size of their task as they seek to turn around a one-goal deficit against RC Deportivo La Coruña on Tuesday night.
A 1-0 defeat in Spain a fortnight ago left Juve with little margin for error if they are to progress beyond the UEFA Champions League first knockout round and reach a second consecutive final. Coach Marcello Lippi will accept "no excuses" from his depleted team for failing to keep their campaign alive.
"It is too easy to have confidence when everything is going well," Lippi said. "I think it is nice to have a difficult period sometimes because in these moments we have to show that we are able to solve every kind of problem. The match against Deportivo can change our season."
Captain Alessandro Del Piero is also fully aware of the need for a good performance. "We need a perfect game," he said. "Deportivo are a great side but we really want this cup and we are eager to show our pride. We certainly do not need extra motivation and I do not see any reasons for not being optimistic."
Lippi is unable to call on David Trezeguet, Gianluca Zambrotta, Alessandro Birindelli, Mark Iuliano, Igor Tudor and Enzo Maresca through injury, while Antonio Conte is suspended. The coach is expected to play Marco Di Vaio alongside Alessandro Del Piero, with Pavel Nedved just behind following his winning goal in Saturday's defeat of Brescia Calcio — a strike which followed a short rest in his native Czech Republic.
"Many players in this squad know the pleasure of reaching the final of this tournament because we have done it more than once in the past and we did it after passing several difficult hurdles like this one," Lippi said. "I hope it will be the night of our big players like Del Piero and Nedved. When these players are in great condition, the team follow them. Deportivo always play really well at home but usually are different when they play away."
This is the fourth consecutive year the teams have met in the Champions League, and although Deportivo have yet to win in Turin, they may be comforted to know any of their previous results at the Delle Alpi — a 3-2 defeat last season followed two goalless draws — would be good enough for them to go through on aggregate this time round.
Still, Deportivo coach Javier Irureta knows it will not be easy to hold on to their lead. "The 1-0 we achieved in the first leg makes a small but important difference," he said. "However, we need at least one away goal in order to progress. In the past years we proved that we can score here."
Igor Tudor's last-gasp winner sealed Juve's win in last year's vital second group stage game, but Irureta knows it is the Italian champions' more usual matchwinners that will be the main threat. "Players like Nedved and Del Piero can always decide a match," Irureta said." I am mostly worried about Nedved's mobility. He can be extremely dangerous."
Experienced defender Enrique Romero is the only Deportivo absentee with flu, and Irueta confirmed that his selection would differ little from the team that beat Juve with an Alberto Luque goal. "I believe we played a good match in the first leg and I do not see many reasons for making many changes," the coach said.
Di Vaio steps into the spotlight
UEFA Champions League
Marco Di Vaio is more than prepared to shoulder the scoring burden when Juventus FC take on RC Deportivo La Coruña tonight, knowing nothing less than a win will do.
The Italy striker is likely to be the spearhead of the home attack in the absence of injured French international David Trezeguet, but Di Vaio is used to the pressure. Speaking to uefa.com, he said: "It will not be the first time I have done it. It's a difficult match for us but I am really happy to be involved. I hope to be in good form and play a great match."
An unused substitute in the 1-0 defeat at the Riazor stadium two weeks ago, Di Vaio is determined to continue the good form he showed during the group stage. The 27-year-old figured in all six matches, starting four times and scoring three goals.
Di Vaio, who joined Juventus in a €26m deal in 2002, believes the
Italian champions must show patience this evening. "We don't need to
attack recklessly from the first minute," he said. "They play
good football and their strongest side is their attack so we have to be
really careful not to concede goals. We must play an intelligent match because
I'm sure we are able to score at least one goal during the 90 minutes."
Last season, Di Vaio featured eleven times in the Champions League but missed
out on the final defeat by AC Milan. Along the way, Juve eliminated Deportivo
and two other Spanish sides, Barcelona FC and Real Madrid CF. Not surprisingly,
the forward is hoping history repeats itself at the Delle Alpi stadium.
"We have always struggled in Spain because of their way of playing
and our own characteristics. However, we have always played wonderful matches
at home against the same Spanish sides," he said. "In the first
leg at the Riazor stadium we confirmed our problems in facing Spanish sides
away. Now I hope we will also confirm that we can play well at home and
qualify."
This is actually the fourth consecutive season in which Juventus and Deportivo
have met in the Champions League, although Juve's 3-2 home win in last season's
second group stage is the only win recorded by Lippi's men in the previous
seven games. "Away from their stadium they play in a much different
way," Di Vaio added. "They leave more space and we will have to
use this in the best possible way. We have to limit their main strengths,
their attack and their passing game. I believe it all depends on us, on
the way we will face them."
Despite the recent record, Di Vaio is unconcerned, especially as the sides' meetings in the last three seasons have all come in the group stage, rather than knockout phase. He said: "When you play such an important game, you never think of what happened a long time ago. Maybe we will think about the first leg and about how strong they are. But more importantly we will be thinking of what we can expect from them at the Delle Alpi and how we can beat them." With a natural-born finisher like Di Vaio in attack, the Old Lady may still have a long life in the tournament.
SportingLife
Juventus boss Marcello Lippi has urged his team to reproduce their second-half showing at Brescia on Saturday as they attempt to overturn a 1-0 deficit and qualify for the Champions League quarter-finals against Deportivo La Coruña on Tuesday night.
Juve were trailing 2-0 at half-time at Brescia but goals from Pavel Nedved, Fabrizio Miccoli and Marco Di Vaio handed the Turin outfit three crucial points.
But Tuesday's encounter against the Primera Liga giants needs Juve to find the vitality they showed in the latter part of last season — rather than the drab form they have displayed on many occasions this term.
"Against Brescia we showed our best and our worst sides," said Lippi. "We need to be the Juve that was seen in Saturday's second-half when we face Deportivo."
With Serie A leaders AC Milan cruising six points ahead of Juve with 10 league games left to play, the Scudetto seems more likely to travel to San Siro than to remain in Turin.
However, next weekend's eagerly-awaited game at the Delle Alpi could be vital for the Bianconeri who could reduce their gap when they host Carlo Ancelotti's Milan.
And a victory in Europe would give Juve a further boost ahead of next weekend's battle.
"It's clear that Tuesday's outcome could have a repercussion for Sunday's game. "If we win it will no doubt be a big morale victory," continued the Bianconero coach.
That a Spanish team has failed to win at the Delle Alpi in the last 20 previous encounters against Juventus is a positive sign for the Turin giants.
But Juve well aware that they cannot cannot underestimate Javier Irureta's men, who dominated the first leg for long spells and were unfortunate not to win by more than a single-goal margin.
"We need to play a perfect game against Deportivo, tactically and physically," said skipper Alessandro Del Piero, who will play alongside either Marco Di Vaio or Fabrizio Miccoli in attack due to the absence of David Trezeguet — who is still missing with the shoulder injury sustained in Galicia two weeks ago.
Despite last month's poor effort, Lippi believes his men are capable of qualifying for the last eight at the expense of Depor.
"Our confidence is always there, especially in difficult times," said Lippi.
"Deportivo play differently when they play at home from when they play abroad.
"Although it will be hard, I'm convinced we can do it."
The recovery of Uruguay international Paolo Montero in defence is good news for Lippi due to the absence of suspended midfielder Antonio Conte and injured defenders Igor Tudor and Mark Iuliano.
Juve got to have faith
Football Italia
Juventus are confident they can beat Deportivo La Coruña on Tuesday despite a number of important absences. The Bianconeri are without Trezeguet, Zambrotta, Maresca, Iuliano and Birindelli but they believe they can overturn the 1-0 first leg loss.
"You need faith in situations likes these and I've never lost that in my squad," said boss Marcello Lippi. "Neither my players or I have any intention of abandoning the Champions' League. We know what it is like to get to the final and that is our aim again this season."
Juventus put in an ugly performance in Spain during the first tie and Lippi knows it will be difficult to see off Deportivo. "We are aware that we have quite a task ahead of us," added the Coach. "We need to at least take a 1-0 lead and then we'll be in with a chance.
"Although 1-0 down, we will need to play with a balanced side from the first until the very last minute. Deportivo La Coruña are a good side but we've managed to come from behind in the past."
The Old Lady go into the game after the 3-2 win at Brescia on Saturday night. A victory that boosted morale as they ended the first half 2-0 down.
"People saw the good and the bad in that game," added Lippi. "Obviously we hope to continue from our second half display. But in games like this I expect some significant individual contributions from players like Del Piero and Nedved."
This is a crucial stage of the season for Juventus who will also take on League leaders Milan on Sunday.
"We're not thinking about that game at all," noted Del Piero. "We are just focused on reaching the European Cup quarter finals. The Deportivo clash will be a very stimulating one."
Lippi: We need to play a great match
Soccerage
Ahead of tomorrow's Champions League against Deportivo, where Juventus needs to overturn the 1-0 deficit of the first leg, Marcello Lippi hopes his team can play a great match without over exposing itself.
The Tuscan coach said: "We need to play a great match and score so we can at least go for the penalties. In this sense we must make use of the charge that the second half against Brescia has given us. In any case we shall need great attention and balance. We shall not go gung-ho forward."
Del Piero: Only a perfect game will do
Soccerage
Tonight Juventus face Deportivo La Coruña and the bianconeri need a victory that Alessandro Del Piero is sure will come. "Only a perfect game will do and we will try our best," he said. "We can't afford to miss all the chances that we had in the first leg".
"We haven't had a great season so far but we are still in all the competitions and we are the only team in Italy that has done that," the captain added. "We have to stay focused because maybe in a few days we will be talking about a great season".
Irureta: I Fear Nedved and Del Piero
Soccerage
Javieri Irureta, during the press conference on the eve of the second leg Champions League encounter between Juventus and Deportivo, said that he particularly fears Nedved and Del Piero from all the Juventus players.
The Spanish coach declared: "Nedved's mobility and Del Piero's form worry me. These two players can decide the match. Di Vaio's speed should not be underestimated either."
Real interested in Thuram
Football Italia
Juventus stopper Lilian Thuram is the latest Serie A player to be linked with a summer move to Real Madrid. Although the Spanish giants have recently resisted the temptation to sign big name defenders, reports in France insist they like Thuram.
The 32-year-old, who is tied to the Delle Alpi outfit until 2006, has previously stated that he intends to end his career in Turin. However, there is the possibility that Juventus may decide to sell the World Cup winner because of his age. Thuram has had a poor season by his own high standards and Juventus could cash in on the former Parma man.
The Turin giants are expected to rejuvenate their defence in the summer with the possible arrivals of Daniele Bonera and Matteo Ferrari from Parma. Bonera is a versatile stopper who, like Thuram, can play in the centre or as a right-back.
If Real do make a bid for the player, then Juventus are expected to ask for a fee of around £6m. Thuram, who was a past target for Man Utd, is now in his third season with the Old Lady following his £20m move from the Stadio Tardini.
Tribal Football
Real Madrid are interested in Juventus defender Lilian Thuram. The 32 year-old French international has emerged as a target for Real president Florentino Perez, according to sources close to the club.
Thuram is one of several high-profile defensive targets being considered by Real for the summer market in their annual One-Superstar-A-Season shopping spree.
Chelsea boss admits Nedved admiration
Tribal Football
Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri has admitted he'd love to sign Juventus midfielder Pavel Nedved. The Czech Republic international is believed to have already had talks with Chelsea intermediaries about next season.
Last night Ranieri was asked if there was any player he would liken to Damien Duff: "Nedved. My mother says that! My mother says 'Remember Nedved'."
Inter lose race for Mexes
Football Italia
Inter seem to have lost out in the race for young Auxerre ace Philippe Mexes. "I have spoken with him and he has confirmed to me that he prefers England," said agent Olivier Jouanneaux. "I know, as an example, that he appeals to many important clubs, like Manchester United."
The French international defender has been linked with various clubs, among them Manchester United and Juventus.
Mon 08 Mar
Gilardino eager for Juventus
Football Italia
Juventus could buy up three Parma stars in the summer and Alberto Gilardino admits he'd relish this move. The Under-21 international has long been linked to Juve, but this season he has really hit the big time.
"I am very happy with Parma," assured the hitman, "but ever since childhood it has been my dream to play with the Bianconeri jersey."
Many believed that the Gialloblu would sink following the departure of Adrian Mutu and Adriano, but Gilardino has been decisive with 11 Serie A goals.
"It is true that I have certainly improved this year. Nowadays I will try things that a few months ago were beyond me. I am more clinical and often find myself in the right place at the right time. I can only thank my teammates and Coach Cesare Prandelli for their help."
Milan and Roma are also tracking the youngster, but Gilardino warns that a summer move is not necessarily certain. "I could stay at the Tardini if the club has clear plans for the future," he added. "We'll have to wait and see what happens."
He certainly isn't the only Parma player to interest Juventus, as the cash-strapped side is ready to offload several stars. Defensive duo Matteo Ferrari and Daniele Bonera are both full Italian internationals likely to make the Euro 2004 squad, but could be wearing black and white in September.
Zambrotta denies Barca offer
Football Italia
Gianluca Zambrotta's agent has denied that talks have already been held with Barcelona representatives. Reports in the Italian and Spanish press have spoken of preliminary discussions for the last few weeks.
"It is completely untrue," snapped agent Marcello Bonetto. "Nobody has contacted me for Zambrotta. That is the absolute truth."
The versatile Italian international can play either as a left-back or right-winger and impressed during last year's Champions' League campaign. He starred at the Nou Camp when Juventus eliminated Barcelona and it is claimed that Spanish directors made their interest in him known during January's negotiations for Edgar Davids.
However, Bonetto wished to point out that the ex-Bari man is ready to put pen to paper on a new Bianconeri deal. "We are currently discussing an extension to his current contract until 2008," revealed the representative. "I expect that an important development could happen very soon."
Juventus want Parma defensive pair
Tribal Football
Juventus chief Luciano Moggi is planning to replace two of the club's defensive veterans with Parma signings. Ciro Ferrara, 37, and 33 year-old Paolo Montero are both coming to the end of their careers at Juve and Moggi is already actively seeking replacements.
Top of his shopping are Parma duo Mateo Ferrari (25) and Daniele Bonera (23). Moggi has already held preliminary talks with Parma about both players.
Manchester United are also interested in Ferrari, with Parma's board keen to get the best price for both players by opening an auction at the end of the season.
Juventus in River talks over Cavenaghi
Tribal Football
Juventus are keeping tabs on River Plate striker Fernando Cavenaghi. The Argentine youngster is currently in the process of gaining an Italian passport and is keen to move to Juve next season.
The two clubs have already discussed Cavenaghi's transfer fee and Juve are prepared to pay £6 million for the 20 year-old hotshot.
Juventus gag Trez over Barcelona talk
Tribal Football
Juventus striker David Trezeguet has revealed he's been gagged from talking about Barcelona's interest in his transfer. "These reports do not bother me," the French ace told Marca. "But Juve has requested that I do not speak on the subject and I must follow orders.
"I am calm and enjoying my football again. I am enjoying this season in Italy and my wish is to continue growing as a player and a person. And as far as I know, I will do this with Juventus."
Real linked with move for Thuram
Planet Football
Real Madrid have been linked with a move for French international defender Lilian Thuram. According to reports in France, officials for the El Santiago Bernabeu giants look to be exploring the possibility of landing the Juventus man in the summer.
The 32-year-old is still under contract with the Bianconeri until June 2006 and the defender himself recently hinted that he would honour his current Juve deal before retiring from the game.
The former Monaco and Parma star has attracted the interest of top clubs in Europe in recent seasons, with Manchester United having been linked with a move for the Frenchman last summer. Thuram's career efforts earned him a place in Brazilian legend Pele's top 100 list of greatest players in football last week.
It remains to be seen if Los Galacticos could swing a deal to bring the defender to the Spanish capital. The Turin club are likely to resist any approach for Thuram and would hope that he is true to his word and honour his current deal at Stadio Delle Alpi.
Trabelsi Considering Options
Planet Football
Ajax right back Hatem Trabelsi has admitted that his agent has been in talks with Premiership giants Arsenal and Chelsea. The Tunisian African Cup of Nations winner is coming to the end of his contract with the Amsterdam club and is thought to be keen on a move to England or Italy.
Manchester United and Juventus are also thought to be interested in the defender, who impressed with the Dutch giants in the UEFA Champions League the past two seasons.
It is thought that the 27-year-old's representative Frank Seedoc met with The Gunners about a possible summer move, with Arsene Wenger keen to add the powerful left back to his Highbury back four.
"I know my agent has spoken to Arsenal and Chelsea," Trabelsi told The Mirror. "I like The Premiership and the Italian Championship, so I must choose the right club for me.
"I am out of contract this summer, so I am able to sign a pre-contract before the end of the season."
One problem that any interested club might face in signing Trabelsi is that Ajax believe they have a unilateral option to extend his contract for another two seasons, thus not making him a Bosman free in the summer. It is reported, however, that the Amsterdammers are prepared to sell that option as part of a transfer deal for the North African star.
Lippi Envies Capello's Patience With Cassano
Soccerage
When asked about Antonio Cassano, Marcello Lippi stated he admired Fabio Capello's patience with the young star. Lippi declared: "I envy Fabio Capello for the patience he has shown with Cassano, he had a great merit in growing the player. I don't know if I would have had as much patience."
Sun 07 Mar
Brescia 2 Juventus 3
Pavel Nedved completed a classic comeback as Juventus came from 2-0 down at Brescia to win 3-2.
Roberto Baggio was hoping to score his 200th Serie A goal against his former club and made his comeback after several weeks on the sidelines with a knee injury. Brescia did well enough even without the Divine Ponytail, earning a 3-1 victory at Inter.
Juventus were without the injured David Trezeguet, Enzo Maresca, Gianluca Zambrotta, Alessandro Birindelli and Igor Tudor. With the Champions' League clash against Deportivo La Coruña coming up, Alessandro Del Piero was also rested.
Pavel Nedved made his return after missing the win over Ancona due to a ban and was given a five-day holiday to help recover his form this week.
The Bianconeri defence has been under fire this season and another disastrous error gifted Brescia the opener after just three minutes. Gianluigi Buffon came rushing off his line but clattered into a group of bodies, allowing Stefano Mauri to turn into an empty net.
Juve's record here is quite poor and Brescia won this fixture 2-0 last season, so it was a very strong start for the Rondinelle.
The visitors fought back and Nedved's angled drive was well parried at the near post by Luca Castellazzi, then the goalkeeper bravely intercepted Marco Di Vaio's shot.
But Brescia continued to have the better of the overall play with Baggio curling a volley and free kick over the bar.
Francelino Matuzalem went very close to an equaliser when his fierce drive was deflected, but Buffon more than made up for his earlier error by shooting up his hand to turn it over the bar in a stunning reaction save.
The goalkeeper then rushed off his line to pluck the ball off Andrea Caracciolo's foot as he sprung the offside trap.
Juventus also created chances and on 32 minutes Fabrizio Miccoli charged into the box and saw his angled drive deflected inches wide of the far post by Gigi Di Biagio.
But it was Brescia who doubled their lead with a well-worked free kick just before half-time. Di Biagio feinted a powerful effort, but instead chipped it up for Baggio and he placed it across the face of goal for Caracciolo's tap-in. Nicola Legrottaglie should perhaps have cleared it before the ball reached the scorer at the back post.
Matuzalem then dribbled past two players and placed a fierce drive past the far post, while Caracciolo ballooned wide from a good position as Juventus were under increasing pressure.
Paolo Montero came on for Gianluca Pessotto at half-time, but within a minute he'd brought down Baggio just outside the box and could perhaps have been considered last man.
However, at the other end Nedved fell under a challenge from Di Biagio and the referee did not hesitate in pointing to the spot. Miccoli took over penalty taking duties and the former Perugia man successfully converted only for the ref to order a retake.
The second attempt was also accurate, but once more Paolo Bertini demanded it be taken again as he halted his run-up. Miccoli was again in charge and for a third time buried the spot-kick to put Juventus back into the game.
It proved a decisive moment, as within a minute the Bianconeri were level on 2-2. Miccoli flicked a long Lillian Thuram pass into the centre and allowed Marco Di Vaio to volley in from ten yards. The former Parma man had not scored in Serie A since Nov 9.
Alessandro Del Piero stepped on to the field for the final 17 minutes, replacing goalscorer Di Vaio.
Juve's incredible comeback from two down was completed moments later, as a corner kick was punched out to Pavel Nedved on the edge of the box and he smashed in a brilliant goal.
Brescia wanted a penalty soon after when Mauro German Camoranesi clattered into Mauri, but the referee waved play on.
Miccoli combined well with Nedved on the counter-attack, but his angled drive was just wide of the near post.
The home side felt they perhaps should have drawn level in the final minute when Caracciolo was halted for a very dubious offside decision as he went one on one with Buffon.
Soccernet: Nedved seals Juve comeback win
European Player of the Year Pavel Nedved struck the winner as champions Juventus came back from two goals down to beat Brescia 3-2 in Serie A on Saturday.
The win sends Juve above AS Roma into second place on 55 points, three behind leaders AC Milan who host Sampdoria on Sunday.
Roma, who are third on 53 points, face Inter Milan at the Olympic stadium on Sunday.
Stefano Mauri put Brescia ahead in just the third minute after an error from Juve keeper Gianluigi Buffon whose attempted punch out merely fell to the midfielder who slotted home.
Brescia had a 2-0 lead at the break as Andrea Caracciolo converted after Roberto Baggio had set him up with a pass from a Luigi Di Biagio free kick.
Juve's comeback began when they were awarded a penalty after Nedved was barged over by Di Biagio and Fabrizio Miccoli slotted home at the third attempt.
Miccoli's first two penalties, which both found their net, were ordered to be retaken as the Italy international had stopped in his run-up.
Just a minute later, Marco Di Vaio brought Juve level with a fine shot on the turn from a Miccoli pass before Nedved crowned the comeback with a fierce drive in the 75th minute after Brescia keeper Luca Castellazzi's clearance fell to him on the edge of the area.
A Matteo Ferrari equaliser three minutes from time gave Parma a 2-2 draw in their rain-drenched local derby with Modena.
The Italy international rose to head home a free kick from Romanian Ianis Zicu and forced struggling Modena to settle for a point.
Modena, coached by former Parma boss Alberto Malesani, took the lead in the 42nd minute when Matteo Pivotto hooked home a Maurizio Domizzi free kick.
But just before the break Parma's Italy Under-21 striker Alberto Gilardino, who had an earlier effort ruled out, pulled his side level from the penalty spot.
Domizzi restored Modena's lead on the hour with a firm finish after a determined run into the area only for Ferrari to restore parity in the 87th minute.
Post-Match Comments
Marcello Lippi praised his men for recovering from 2-0 down, but Gianni De Biasi bitterly criticised the referee for two dubious goals.
"Brescia certainly did well to make the most of their first half performance," said Lippi, "but in all honesty that wasn't Juventus out there."
"We played without heart and soul, above all without taking the initiative and Juve cannot afford to sit back."
They went into the half-time break 2-0 down, but a flurry of goals saw the Bianconeri emerge victorious.
"The second half was just another team entirely that took risks, although certainly those two goals in 120 seconds were a tough blow for Brescia. We kept going even after that and played football at last."
"I wanted a more aggressive performance and asked the players to be more assertive in all areas of the field."
Juventus got back into the game when Fabrizio Miccoli converted a penalty, even if it took three attempts to get it on the scoresheet.
"Miccoli did very well to keep his cool," noted Lippi, "but from the bench I couldn't really tell what was wrong with the other two. It certainly wasn't easy to score all three penalties in a row."
This match did highlight a recent problem also seen against Ancona and Deportivo La Coruña of difficult starts to their performances.
"There does seem to be a problem at the start, but I pledge we will work on that aspect of the game. At least our qualities do emerge over the 90 minutes, but we need to have more self-belief."
The atmosphere in the Brescia camp was understandably sombre after this controversial 3-2 home defeat.
"We certainly out-played Juve in the first half and fully deserved to be two goals up after 45 minutes," insisted Gianni De Biasi.
"Our regrets are obviously linked to that second period that was also affected by certain incidents I don't wish to comment on. I shall only say that Brescia were superior on all levels, both in terms of tactics and character, but the game was reopened by a very soft penalty indeed."
At the dawn of the second half Gigi Di Biagio was punished for a slight nudge on Pavel Nedved.
"If this push had taken place at the other end of the field then a penalty would never have been awarded," sniped the Brescia boss. "It's a joke."
There are also doubts over Marco Di Vaio's goal as he appeared to be offside when Miccoli flicked on the pass – something the scorer himself admitted.
"It was offside and there are no doubts about it," continued an irate De Biasi. "To concede two dubious goals in the space of 120 seconds will inevitably hit a team psychologically. Unfortunately these incidents always make the difference in favour of the big clubs."
Pavel Nedved's five-day holiday evidently helped him rediscover his form and a winning goal at the Stadio Rigamonti.
"I have always given 100 per cent in every game, even when I didn't have much petrol left in the tank," assured the Balon d'Or winner.
"This performance showed everyone just what Juventus represents. This is the Bianconeri character that never gives in no matter what the situation."
Nedved: "That's Character"
Pavel Nedved's return comes at a most appropriate moment. With Juventus struggling for a comeback it's the Czech that takes the bianconeri to victory.
First he is involved in the action that set's up Juve's penalty opportunity then the fantastic goal that sets the final score at 3-2 with a splendid recovery. Nedved repeats his performance in the first leg match against Brescia:
"They are playing well at this stage in the season and we knew it would have been difficult. The first half? I don't know where our concentration was, but when we returned on the field we proved our exceptional character. This is what Juventus is about. The goal was very important for this match. I always try my best -sometimes I succeed and sometimes I don't."
Lippi: "More determination in second half"
Yet another achievement for Marcello Lippi to list among those attained coaching Juventus in the last decade. A great comeback at Brescia, from 2-0 to 3-2, proves decisive to continue the ongoing chase in the championship and to keep momentum in the next important challenges.
Three crucial matches, against Deportivo, Milan and Lazio that Lippi wants to engage with the same spirit we saw in the second half of the match: "I don't believe what we saw in the first half is the real Juventus. Brescia put to profit all the work they have done this season. We lacked determination.
"After half time we came back with more resolve. The two goals in rapid succession just at the begging of the second half have been decisive and undermined their confidence. We felt it in our possibilities and scored the winning goal, and went very close to scoring also a fourth point."
Sat 06 Mar
Serie A Preview: Brescia vs Juventus
Brescia are on Cloud Nine after hammering Inter in their own back yard, but face another tough customer as Juventus come to the Stadio Rigamonti.
The Rondinelle caused shockwaves throughout Serie A with their first ever victory at the San Siro, beating sorry Inter by three goals to one. The fact that this result was achieved without star Roberto Baggio and with half the team suffering from a bout of flu made it all the more remarkable.
There are still doubts over whether the Divine Ponytail will take part in this match due to an ankle problem, but youngster Simone Del Nero is filling in admirably with his first Serie A goal now under his belt. Under-21 international Andrea Caracciolo has also rediscovered his scoring boots following a long drought, while Francelino Matuzalem can always provide that spark of creativity from midfield.
Juventus have every right to be worried stepping into a Stadium where Roma have already been defeated in 2004. It should also be noted that last season Bianconeri supporters suffered a 2-0 defeat in this same fixture.
However, overall Brescia's home form is quite poor thanks to three wins, five draws and four defeats. Their last match here saw Lecce run out 2-1 winners, but at the same time Juve have hardly set the world alight over the last few weeks. Honorary President Umberto Agnelli claimed this side was "reaping more than it sowed," and a perfect example of that was the dire performance that nonetheless handed Marcello Lippi's men a 3-0 win over Ancona last Sunday.
With Enzo Maresca and David Trezeguet out for at least a month and the Champions' League clash with Deportivo La Coruña looming, Lippi is likely to shelve the trident attack. Pavel Nedved returns from suspension to provide support for Alessandro Del Piero and Marco Di Vaio, while Mauro Camoranesi hopes to repeat his splendid strike from last Sunday.
Soccernet
There is nothing that would please Brescia coach Giovanni De Biasi more than to beat Juventus for the first time on Saturday's clash at the Mario Rigamonti stadium.
"I have not beaten the Bianconeri not even in my playing days and I would like to cancel this negative run once and for all," said De Biasi, a former-Inter Milan and Pescara player.
Last weekend's 3-1 victory against Inter has allowed Brescia to go one step further in their aim to avoid relegation this season.
With 11 games left to play, safety has not yet been secured with Brescia standing five points clear of a relegation place, but the future does look bright.
The triumph over Inter brought an air of optimism for De Biasi's men and they will be further inspired by the return of captain Roberto Baggio who has recovered from a tendon injury.
Baggio is one strike away from his 200th goal mark in Serie A and would undoubtedly take pleasure in hitting the target against the club where he became a world star, before falling out with coach Marcello Lippi and being shown the door.
Despite the emphatic 25-point difference between Juve and Brescia, the home team cannot be underestimated for they have brought down the likes of Lazio, Roma and Inter this year.
Unlike Scudetto rivals AC Milan and Roma, Juve have failed to show their top form this year.
"It is true that we are not playing brilliantly at the moment and we lack brightness in our game," admitted Lippi, whose team currently stand in third position, six points behind leaders AC Milan.
However, despite the recent mediocre performances Juve have escaped unharmed as was seen in last weekend's 3-0 win over Ancona.
In fact, Lippi is keen to remind those critics that unlike the Rossoneri and the Giallorossi, they are still in contention for every title.
"Everyone says that we are not playing well and that our team lacks players but we are in contention for the league, the Coppa Italia final and still battling in the Champions League," he added.
However, with the Scudetto looking more likely to travel to the San Siro, Lippi's priorities have switched elsewhere.
The Bianconeri will have their eyes set on Tuesday's crucial Champions League clash against Deportivo La Coruña at the Delle Alpi.
A 1-0 defeat in the first-leg encounter has threatened the Bianconeri's aim of progressing in Europe.
As a result, Alessandro Del Piero will be rested on Saturday with the Italian duo Fabrizio Miccoli and Marco Di Vaio set to form Juve's attack.
Moreover, defender Nicola Legrotaglie and midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi are set to start on the bench.
De Biasi is still waiting on midfielder Matuzalem and Luigi Di Biagio, the former struggling with a knee injury earlier this week and the latter suffering from the flu.
Lippi issues Milan warning
Marcello Lippi is confident that Juventus can catch leaders Milan, even if he does have selection problems for the Brescia tie. The Italian champions will be without the injured Trezeguet, Maresca, Tudor, Zambrotta and Birindelli. Plus reserve goalkeeper Antonio Chimenti.
The Bianconeri are currently third in Serie A, six points adrift of the San Siro side, but they face a potentially tricky away test tomorrow.
"It will be a difficult game for us but we can't afford to make any mistakes if we want to catch Milan," said Lippi. "The Lombard club are a hostile side to face. They have some interesting youngsters like Del Nero and Caracciolo. Plus the senators such as Di Biagio."
Juventus are entering a crucial stage of the season, as they have to overturn a 1-0 first leg defeat against Deportivo on Tuesday before facing Milan next weekend. With that in mind Lippi has looked to protect his star players with such important fixtures coming up. Alex Del Piero is set to be rested against Brescia, while Pavel Nedved was recently given a few days off.
"Pavel is fine," explained Lippi. "I convinced him to take a break. He's dedicated himself totally to football this season and has spoken about nothing else over the past year. He is an important player and I insisted he get away for a bit. I think it helped as he has come back looking rejuvenated."
A question regarding Brescia's Roberto Baggio inevitably followed given the fact that the two men are not exactly the best of friends. The Italian legend, who has worked for Lippi at Juve and Inter, is looking for his 200th Serie A goal. Yet Lippi made no comment on Baggio's target as the Press conference was brought to an end.
Trezeguet Not Quite Bien
French international striker David Trezeguet is looking to make a return to action shortly, but does not want to rush his Juventus comeback and face a further spell on the sidelines. The former Monaco ace has been out of action after damaging his shoulder against Deportivo La Coruña in the UEFA Champions League clash.
"I feel better. I don't know when, but I'm looking forward to playing," explained Trezeguet to the Gazzetta dello Sport. "I don't want to rush the return, because I don't want the risk."
Meanwhile, Trezeguet has been in London to receive an award, but the fleet-footed striker denied it was to discuss a possible move to Chelsea. "I only went to London to collect a prize. I didn't talk with anyone. I don't want to discuss this thing," he added.
Nedved makes Juve pledge
Pavel Nedved won't be displaying his skills at Stamford Bridge next season after he committed himself to Juventus. The Czech international's future has been the subject of speculation recently that had suggested a summer move to Chelsea may occur.
Whispers claimed that the Italian champions were set to sacrifice the European Footballer of the Year if a substantial bid was tabled. Yet the 31-year-old has insisted that he will keep on playing football in Turin until his contract expires in 2006.
"I have embraced the Juventus mentality and this club is in my bones," he said. "I wouldn't change teams even if I was forced to. I won't be leaving Juventus and I firmly believe that the club have no intention of selling me either."
Nedved is keen to keep winning with the Old Lady and is also adamant that he is physically up to the job.
"I'm in good shape and I don't really understand why people are so concerned about my fitness," he said. Playing football gives me a great feeling of joy. If I had my way I would have a ball with me all day long."
There were doubts over Nedved's physical condition after he was absent from Tuesday's training session. However, he was back in Turin on Wednesday and has trained since. He should feature at the weekend against Brescia after missing the Ancona tie with suspension.
Nedved is Chelsea target
Pavel Nedved has become the number one target for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich. The Czech midfielder claims he is content at Juventus but Chelsea's money could be tempting.
Zidane and Nedved praised
Michel Platini feels that Zinedine Zidane and Pavel Nedved are two of the very best players in the world. "I would buy a ticket to go and see Nedved and Zidane," said the former Juve legend. "There are not many like that these days. I played alongside a lot of great players at Juve like Zbigniew Boniek and Paolo Rossi, who were the Zinedine Zidanes of the time."
Juventus ready to trump Atletico Madrid for Lequi
Juventus are planning a major raid for Atletico Madrid defender Matias Lequi. The Argentina U23 international is seen at Juve as a potential successor for Paolo Montero and is being lined up for a summer move to Turin.
Lequi is on-loan at Atletico from River Plate and his registration is owned by agent Paco Casal. Casal also has Juventus players Marcelo Zalayeta, David Trezeguet and Ruben Olivera on his books and enjoys a good relationship with Juve officials.
Atletico know they will have to fight to hold onto Lequi next season and it's been suggested in the Spanish press that that was the reason for the January loan signing of Olivera, who has hardly figured since his arrival from Juve. Signing Olivera keeps Atletico on the good side of Casal, though Juve are also in regular talks about the possibility of landing Lequi in the summer.
Zlatan cools Juve rumours
Ajax star Zlatan Ibrahimovic's agent has denied reports that the player is ready to move to Juventus. "Zlatan has never said he is going to Juve," said Mino Raiola. "The only thing he has said is that if one of the big clubs from Italy get in touch, he would of course be interested."
