This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 11 February
Italy 2 - 0 Russia
Football Italia
Alberto Gilardino and Simone Barone were on target and Italy hit the woodwork twice as they crush Russia 2-0 in a friendly.
Marcello Lippi experimented a trident attack for this match, though he was forced to do without the injured Antonio Cassano. Aimo Diana and Alessandro Nesta also pulled out with fitness problems, so Marco Materazzi stepped in to the four-man defence.
The Coach admitted this was a similar line-up to the one that will face Scotland in next month's World Cup qualifier. Before kick-off there was a ceremony in which Cagliari retired the Number 11 shirt once worn by legendary Italy star Gigi Riva.
The Azzurri had intended to wear a white jersey as part of the anti-racism drive, but the referee said it would be too confusing with Russia already wearing black and white. The first shot on goal came after 90 seconds, as Giuseppe Pancaro met Andrea Pirlo's free kick and Malafeev flew to palm it out with one hand.
Montella hit the back of the net soon after, but the goal was disallowed for a very debatable offside position when Christian Vieri ran on to Francesco Totti's chipped pass and cut across for the Roma man. Moments later Gennaro Gattuso charged through the centre and put in a great pass for Vieri, who fired wide from nine yards.
The Roma connection was on show when Totti threaded through for Montella, who sprinted between two defenders and his angled drive was parried by Malafeev at full stretch. Italy were dominating in the early stages and Vieri gathered Montella's pass inside the area with his back to goal, but Zhirkov did well to intercept as he tried to turn.
Russia had their first chance after 20 minutes when they took advantage of a defensive error and Daniele Bonera stuck out a foot to deflect Kerzakov's cutback just wide of the far post.
Montella was again lively and picked out by a long Pirlo pass from the halfway line, but the 'keeper narrowed the angle enough so that he fired on to the side-netting with his weaker right foot.
The visitors came out of their shell as the first half wore on and Fabio Cannavaro performed a crucial tackle on Sychev inside the area to clear the danger. A delightful Totti backheel left the defence standing, but Vieri was offside and play was halted.
Italy could not have gone closer to breaking the deadlock than on 35 minutes. Totti passed out to Montella and his cross reached Vieri, but the Inter star's looping header slammed the woodwork. The Azzurri were becoming increasingly frustrated, as five minutes later they rattled the frame of the goal again. This time it was a curling free kick from Andrea Pirlo that left the goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Lippi made the Cagliari crowd's day in the second half by introducing both local heroes Mauro Esposito and Antonio Langella. It was an international debut for Langella, while Alberto Gilardino also came on to completely revolutionise the trident attack. Palermo's Simone Barone also replaced Daniele De Rossi.
The two Sardinians had an immediate impact. Within 55 seconds of his debut, Esposito had threaded through for Langella and a great save kept out his angled drive. Gilardino was then just unable to turn in the loose ball. Esposito had his own effort blocked soon after, but Andrea Pirlo limped off with a knee injury to make way for Juve's Manuele Blasi.
The goal eventually came on 55 minutes with a splendid team move. Esposito floated in a pass for Gilardino, who took it round the goalkeeper and into the net from a very tight angle.
The Azzurri doubled their lead with another spectacular strike from a substitute. Midfielder Barone gathered a loose ball on the edge of the box and slammed it first time with the shot luckily going in off the inside of the upright. Malefeev didn't even move as the Palermo man rocketed in a great finish.
Gianluigi Buffon made his first save soon after, using his legs to block Sychev's well-taken strike. Fiorentina full-back Giorgio Chiellini was the final substitution, stepping in for Milan veteran Giuseppe Pancaro. Gattuso was having a fantastic game in midfield and even turned provider with a searching pass for Esposito, but the Cagliari star's lob was just a touch too long to make it 3-0.
Buffon was barely tested by solo efforts from Sychev and Karyaka, an incident in which the Russian substitute picked up an injury. Langella was crowded out as he tried to make the most of a defensive error, while Sychev turned a late header over the bar from six yards as the Azzurri lost concentration at the back.
A fine tackle prevented Gilardino taking full advantage of Daniele Bonera's through ball and from the resulting corner kick there were appeals for a Bugayev handling offence. Russia had their best chance in the final minute when Boyarintzev took Chiellini by surprise out wide on the right and turned an angled drive inches past the far post.
Italy: Buffon; Bonera, Materazzi, Cannavaro, Pancaro (Chiellini 68); Gattuso, Pirlo (Blasi 50), De Rossi (Barone 46); Montella (Esposito 46), Vieri (Langella 46), Totti (Gilardino 46)
Russia: Malafeev; Evseev, Sennikov, Bugayev, Aniukov; Zhirkov, Loskov (Alenichev 46), Ismailov (Boyarintzev 46), Khoklov (Karyaka 46) (Kolodin 77); Sychev, Kerzhakov
Ref: Michel (Slk)
Lippi relishes Italy competition
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi has marvelled at the sheer number of promising Italy players he can choose from for the new 4-3-3 system. Lippi was pleased with the new tactical system against Russia despite the fact the first choice trio of Vincenzo Montella, Christian Vieri and Francesco Totti failed to break the deadlock.
"We expected goal scoring opportunities with a trident attack and that's what we got, but all that hard work paid off in the second half," commented the Coach. "The first half squad was equally effective if you consider that they forced several saves out of the Russian goalkeeper and hit the woodwork twice with Vieri and Andrea Pirlo."
The 4-3-3 system is likely to be used against Scotland in the crucial World Cup qualifier at the San Siro on March 26, when Antonio Cassano should be back in the side, though Gianluca Zambrotta is suspended.
"It's clear that with this system you run a few risks at the back, but it is worth it. We will experiment with this in the future, though nothing is clear-cut."
Among the most impressive players on the night were Alberto Gilardino, Simone Barone, Mauro Esposito and debutant Antonio Langella. "We proved once again that there are so many great Italian players out there at the moment," smiled Lippi.
Alberto Gilardino came on for the second half and almost immediately broke the deadlock with a stunning strike. "I am very happy for my goal and the victory," said the Parma hitman. "Everyone knows the value of Vieri, Totti and Montella, so that is beyond doubt. We came on more determined as the game was still in the balance."
With his recent performances at club level and this goal, Gilardino could be pushing for a starting spot against Scotland. "I always give 100 per cent when I wear the Italy jersey and try to give the Coach a selection headache. All of us who went to the Olympics suffered for it later on, but I reacted to that tiredness and am now back to my old self."
The fact that Cagliari, Palermo, Parma and Fiorentina provide players for the Italy squad suggest that Milan, Juventus and Inter are losing their monopoly on the big stars. "There are smaller clubs with great quality throughout the squad nowadays and that is what makes Serie A such a tough League," added Gilardino.
Simone Barone also hit the back of the net with a fantastic goal, adding to the curious fact that both strikes were scored by substitutes.
"I saw the space, my first touch was good and so I gave it a go. This is an unforgettable day for me and I dedicate my first Italy goal to my family," said the Palermo midfielder. "Of course it's a bit more difficult to maintain the balance with this system, but with strikers of such quality it is definitely worth it, as they can do damage with every chance. We don't mind doing a bit more running."
Barone's club teammate Luca Toni was one of the many strikers left at home for this test, including Antonio Cassano, Alessandro Del Piero and Fabrizio Miccoli. "Above all this year we have real competition for the forward roles and that is an exciting prospect for the Azzurri."
Palermo seal co-op deal with Juventus for Behrami
Tribal Football
Palermo have reached an agreement with Juventus over the co-ownership of Genoa attacker Valon Behrami. Juve director general Luciano Moggi confirmed earlier this week that he had struck a deal for Behrami, who is currently on-loan at Verona.
Palermo and Juve will split the Swiss youngster's registration 50-50, with Behrami to spend next season in Sicily.
Henry hails saviour Trez
Football Italia
Thierry Henry hailed strike-partner David Trezeguet after the Juventus ace salvaged a 1-1 draw for France against Sweden on Wednesday. After an eight-month absence from international football, a fit-again Trezeguet headed home the equaliser from Henry's cross on 36 minutes.
That topped off Les Bleus' best sustained period of play since the appointment of Coach Raymond Domenech following Euro 2004. Henry said: "When we have David Trezeguet in the team, things are much easier. We all played around the focus he provides and we created a number of chances."
Henry and Trezeguet combined dangerously several times in the first half and Domenech will have been pleased with his front-two, who underachieved as a partnership at Euro 2004.
Thursday 10 February
Juventus - Udinese
Football Italia
Juve have seen their lead at the top of the table cut to two points after a second consecutive defeat and they now face a tough task against in-form Udinese.
The Bianconeri thought the title was in the bag when they ran eight points ahead of the chasing pack, but seven days later the Scudetto race was blown wide open by shock defeats to Sampdoria and Palermo. They return to the Delle Alpi and welcome third-placed Udinese, who have rediscovered their own form after a poor January run.
Fabio Capello welcomes Mauro German Camoranesi back to the squad after his suspension, but Olivier Kapo and Pavel Nedved remain sidelined with injury. Alessandro Del Piero is again set for the bench in order to maintain the David Trezeguet-Zlatan Ibrahimovic partnership upfront.
Udinese are fresh from two wins on the trot and Vincenzo Iaquinta – a transfer target for the Turin side in the summer – is in fine form alongside Antonio Di Natale and David Di Michele. Marek Jankulovski was also close to a Juve switch in January and faces what could be his future teammates.
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Olivera, Emerson, Blasi, Camoranesi; Trezeguet, Ibrahimovic
Udinese (probable): De Sanctis; Bertotto, Sensini, Kroldrup; Jankulovski, Pizarro, Muntari, Pieri; Di Michele, Iaquinta, Di Natale
Ref: To follow...
Juventus beat Rangers for Monaco's Nonda
Tribal Football
Juventus have reportedly struck an agreement with AS Monaco striker Shabani Nonda. The big centre-forward is off contract in the summer and has been speaking with several clubs about next season, including Juve and Rangers.
Nonda is said to have agreed terms over a five-year contract with Juve and has accepted that he will be loaned out next season. Bologna are favourites to sign the powerful centre-forward.
Juventus in Palermo talks for Parma's Bovo
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has expressed interest in Parma fullback Cesare Bovo. Moggi and Palermo chief Rino Foschi held talks earlier this week over several players and among them was Bovo.
While he is on-loan with Parma, Palermo have co-ownership for the defender with AS Roma. Juve want to buy Palermo's 50 per cent in the coming months before opening talks with Roma about acquiring their half of Bovo's registration.
Moggi wants to take Bovo outright as he seeks an alternative to Giorgio Chiellini, who wants to make his loan stay Fiorentina into a permanent deal.
Cassano in new Juve link
Football Italia
Lapo Elkann, a member of the legendary Agnelli family, has fuelled talk that Juventus will sign Antonio Cassano. Elkann, the nephew of Giovanni and Umberto Agnelli - who had very close links with the club, has stated that he would love the Roman to join in the summer.
"I don’t get involved in transfer policy but I really do like Cassano," said the FIAT marketing director. "I seem to remember that he was the best Italian player at the 2004 European Championship Finals."
The 26-year-old added: "Cassano is a youngster who had a difficult childhood and he’s difficult to manage because he has a strong character. But he does some extraordinary things on the pitch and if he’s well looked after, then he can become the best Italian player ever."
Cassano has been associated with a Turin switch as his current contract expires in 2006 and because he could again link up with boss Fabio Capello. Rumours have suggested that Adrian Mutu, a January signing, could be offered to the Giallorossi as part of a player plus cash deal.
But the Romanian thinks they can co-exist. "His arrival wouldn’t be a problem for me," said the currently banned former Chelsea player. "I hope to stay at Juventus even if it won’t be up to me. I’m even ready to play in midfield for this club."
Palermo dream of Del Piero
Football Italia
Ambitious Palermo have offered Alessandro Del Piero the chance to end his Juventus nightmare. The Italian’s future in Turin has been cast into doubt after his recent relegation to the bench, and a summer exit may be on the cards.
Some of Europe’s biggest clubs have been associated but the Sicilian outfit have dreams of landing the 30-year-old legend.
"I don’t think he will leave Turin but I would love to bring a champion like him to Palermo," President Maurizio Zamparini told the Corriere dello Sport. "But there have to be the right conditions in place for a player of such calibre to come here. We would need a sponsor to cover his wages."
Meanwhile, the two clubs are expected to finalise a number of transfers at the end of this season. Juventus are keen on Andrea Barzagli, a defender who has recently broken into the full Italian national squad.
"I know they are following me," stated the former Azzurrini stopper. "This news fills me with honour."
The Old Lady are also known to be keen on Parma’s Cesare Bovo, who is part-owned by both Roma and Palermo. The Rosaneri, apart from Del Piero, are also eyeing Fabrizio Miccoli. The latter is currently at Fiorentina after the Viola bought a half-share in him from Juve in the summer.
Palermo's Barzagli "proud" of Juventus link
Tribal Football
Palermo stopper Andrea Barzagli admits he is proud to be linked with Juventus. Juve director general Luciano Moggi is chasing the new Italy international and Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has confirmed he'd consider selling Barzagli to the Turin giants.
"Yes, Juve is trying for me,"said Barzagli. "The news has made me very proud that such a big club is interested in signing me."
Fiorentina chief: We'll keep Juventus fullback Chiellini
Tribal Football
Fiorentina chief Fabrizio Lucchesi insists they can sign on-loan Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini for next season. Chiellini is desperate to stay in Florence, but Juve director general Luciano Moggi wants to take him back to Turin when his current loan expires in June.
Lucchesi said: "They can't touch Chiellini. Moggi has said those words because he wants to negotiate a deal which will see him returned to them. But Giorgio is 50 per cent ours and no agreement exists that forces us to sell him back. We will find a solution."
Lippi opts for 4-3-3
Football Italia
Italy will start tonight’s friendly against Russia with an attacking trident of Francesco Totti, Vincenzo Montella and Christian Vieri.
"We will play with a 4-3-3," confirmed boss Marcello Lippi. "Playing with a the trident is an experiment that I want to try out. However, the three forwards can’t just stay up front and wait for the ball to arrive, they must help out the rest of the team."
The tactician will use this evening’s game to iron out a few doubts ahead of next month’s World Cup qualifier against Scotland.
"Will we play the same way next month? We’ll see what happens against Russia," explained the former Juve boss. "I expect to see a good game from my side, one which is enthusiastic and keen to reward their hard work over the last three days.
"This is a match which should be a part of our path to becoming a great side."
Lippi is expecting much from the in-form Christian Vieri who has yet to play for the Azzurri under the Coach.
"I’m not curious but satisfied to see Vieri in such shape and his current frame of mind," he added. "The player is an important figure for this team seeing as his teammates do look up to him."
Italy (probable): Buffon; Bonera, Cannavaro, Nesta, Pancaro (Chiellini); Blasi, De Rossi, Gattuso; Totti, Vieri, Montella
U-21: New system satisfies Gentile
Football Italia
Azzurrini boss Claudio Gentile says he will use the 4-2-3-1 system again following the win over Russia. The Italian Under-21 side collected a 2-1 friendly victory after the tactician was forced to switch from his favoured 4-4-2 formation.
Cagliari’s Rolando Bianchi was fielded as the lone striker, with Riccardo Montolivo, Daniele Mannini and Alessandro Rosina all in support. "We’ll certainly try it again," stated the former Juventus stopper. "The pitch didn’t help us on the night but we’ll use it in the future."
Gentile’s youngsters collected another win thanks to an Alberto Aquilani penalty and a Biagio Pagano header. "We played well in the first half but tiredness crept in after the break," continued Gentile. "The terrain was heavy which meant we were less good than usual but I’m happy."
The Azzurrini, top of their European Championship group, resume qualification next month against Scoltland.
Wednesday 09 February
Referees anger rocked Juve
Football Italia
Juventus are refusing to panic after two consecutive losses but the club have begun to question some refereeing decisions. The Bianconeri remain top yet they have seen their lead slashed from eight points to just two in 180 minutes of football.
"We’re still first and therefore the team to beat," stated director general Luciano Moggi. "A dip can occur but I see nothing to be alarmed about."
However, Moggi, whose club are often cited as allegedly receiving favourable refereeing decisions, believes the men in black have contributed to the Scudetto chase. "When an official is in doubt this term they simply decide to blow the whistle against us," Moggi argued.
The transfer guru then spoke specifically about the penalty incident in the Milan-Lazio match after Jaap Stam fouled Tommaso Rocchi. Moggi believes that the Dutchman, who was booked, should have been dismissed in a game that the Rossoneri eventually won.
He said: "You all saw the pictures, why should I comment on them? I thought it was a certainty…"
Moggi has also taken a swipe at his own goalkeeper after Gigi Buffon commented on the title situation.
"Milan may technically have more than us and a better bench but we have other characteristics to win," said the No 1 from the Italian training camp. "We need to take a bath in humility and not hope in gifts from others. We need to start playing games from the first minute."
Moggi responded: "Buffon would have been wiser to just talk about the national side."
Zebina thanks idol Thuram
Football Italia
Jonathan Zebina says he has benefited from playing alongside his role model, Lilian Thuram, at Juventus this season. Zebina has established himself as the Juve right-back this term following his summer move from Roma, while fellow Frenchman Thuram has moved into the centre of defence.
"I’ve learned a lot by playing alongside him this season," said Zebina. "He often offers advice and I treasure everything he tells me. When you look at what he has achieved in his career, it would be foolish not to listen to him.
"He has been my role model since I arrived in Italy because he is French and because he was voted as the best defender in Serie A."
The 26-year-old is enjoying a good first season in Turin and he is now hoping to make his international debut against Sweden on Wednesday.
"We had a chat recently and spoke about international games too," added the former Cagliari stopper. "Thuram told me that an international is totally different to a Champions’ League match or a big League game. He says it's a different level altogether.
"At each level you have a certain margin for error as a defender. At international level that margin is at its smallest because you are playing with guys you are not used to playing with and the smallest mistake is likely to cost you."
Fiorentina's Chiellini doesn't want Juventus return
Tribal Football
Fiorentina defender Giorgio Chiellini says he does not want to return to Juventus when his loan expires in June. "I only think about Fiorentina and will be here at least until June," said Chiellini. "Juventus hold my registration, but La Viola is in my heart and I have a ferocious determination to be successful for Fiorentina."
Fiorentina in Juventus talks over on-loan trio
Tribal Football
Juventus are ready to negotiate new loan deals for Enzo Maresca and Fabrizio Miccoli with Fiorentina.
Fiorentina want to hold onto both players, along with defender Giorgio Chiellini, and after discussions this week Juve are ready to open serious negotiations about extending at least Maresca and Miccoli's loans for another 12 months.
Juve director general Luciano Moggi is less open to allowing Chiellini to stay on, despite the defender wanting to remain in Florence. Juve want cover for Gianluca Zambrotta and would prefer to bring back Chiellini rather than enter the transfer market for another right-sided defender.
Offensive Lippi opts for trident
Football Italia
Italy are expected to field a 4-3-3 formation in Wednesday’s international friendly against Russia. Boss Marcello Lippi has admitted that he intends to use a trident strike-force in preparation for the March World Cup qualifier versus Scotland.
"I think I will select a side which should mirror the one I pick for the Milan game against the Scots," stated Lippi. "I intend to field three attackers this week with players who will not only attack but also defend when we don’t have the ball.
"That is why I called-up Antonio Langella (Cagliari) to replace the injured Antonio Cassano."
Juventus No 1 Gigi Buffon should start in goal despite his recent mixed form for the Bianconeri. He’ll be guarded by a back-four of Daniele Bonera, Alessandro Nesta, Fabio Cannavaro and Giorgio Chiellini – who is being tested again as Gianluca Zambrotta is suspended for the Scotland tie.
The three-man midfield may consist of Daniele De Rossi of Roma, Milan’s Gennaro Gattuso and Manuele Blasi of Juventus. Mauro Esposito of Cagliari, Roma’s Francesco Totti and Inter ace Christian Vieri will probably form the attacking trio.
Italy’s last game against Russia was in a World Cup play-off clash at Napoli in November 1997. Gigi Casiraghi scored the only goal to ensure a 2-1 aggregate win and qualification for France ’98.
U-21: Azzurrini roll over Russia
Football Italia
Claudio Gentile’s Under-21 side maintained its remarkable run with a 2-1 friendly victory against their Russian counterparts. Gentile tested out a new 4-2-3-1 tactical system with Cagliari’s Rolando Bianchi supported by three Trequartisti – Riccardo Montolivo, Daniele Mannini and Alessandro Rosina.
The Azzurrini dominated the first half with a Montolivo header grazing the woodwork and a good penalty shout for a push on Bianchi. The deadlock was eventually broken from the spot when Roma midfielder Alberto Aquilani buried his kick for a foul on the lively Bianchi.
It should have been 2-0 on the stroke of half-time, but Brescia starlet Dallamano could only rattle the frame of the goal with his effort. The referee also awarded a penalty for the Russian side in the second half and Saenko successfully converted to draw the visitors level.
However, Gentile’s youngsters were guaranteed victory in the 73rd minute when Sampdoria midfielder Biagio Pagano nodded in the winner. Italy’s Under-21 side will face Scotland in a crucial European Championship qualifier on March 25.
Tuesday 08 February
Juventus have Ibra worry
Football Italia
Juventus ace Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been ruled out of Sweden’s friendly against France on Wednesday. The striker picked up an injury during the 1-0 loss to Palermo on Saturday, forcing him onto the sidelines.
"We don’t expect him to train or play," said Swedish boss Lars Lagerback ahead of the Paris clash. It is unclear at this stage whether the summer signing from Ajax will be available to face Udinese at the weekend.
Meanwhile, Italy Under-21 boss Claudio Gentile has been forced to make two changes to his squad. The Azzurrini face Russia in an Olbia friendly on Tuesday but goalkeeper Tommaso Berni and Antonio Floro Flores will not play because of injury.
Ternana’s Berni has been substituted by Roma youngster Gianluca Curci, while Floro Flores – who only replaced Daniele Corvia last night – has made way for Salernitana’s Raffaele Palladino.
Behrami: A dream to play for Juventus
Tribal Football
Genoa attacker Valon Behrami has admitted he is flattered by reports linking him with Juventus.
The Swiss ace, currently on-loan with Verona, was watched by Juve scouts on Sunday against Arezzo and admitted: "The comments of (Juve ds Luciano) Moggi have inspired me. Though I do not know at the moment if I could play for such a big club.
"For a wide player like me, it would be a dream to play alongside people like Camoranesi and Nedved."
Youthful Juve make history
Football Italia
Juventus have won the prestigious Viareggio youth tournament for the third successive year. No other club had previously managed such an achievement in the competition’s 57-year history until this afternoon’s 2-0 win over Genoa.
Goals from Bianco and Volpato, nicknamed the ‘New Del Piero’ since his summer arrival from Padova, made sure the Old Lady won their fifth Coppa Carnevale. Inter, who lost in the semi-final to Juve, came third after they beat Maccabi Haifa of Israel 3-2 on penalties earlier today.
Lippi calls in Langella
Football Italia
Cagliari’s Antonio Langella has received a maiden Azzurri call after boss Marcello Lippi lost two players with injury. The attacking midfielder has been included for Wednesday’s friendly against Russia following the withdrawal of Antonio Cassano and Aimo Diana.
The Roman ace has picked up a knee injury, while the Sampdoria midfielder is struggling with a muscle problem.
Langella has been in sparkling form for the last three months and many thought him unlucky to not be named in the initial squad last night. However, Langella could now make his Azzurri debut this week in front of his own Cagliari fans, as the Stadio Sant’Elia will stage the clash.
The 27-year-old had never previously played in Serie A before this season. In fact, he’s only had two years at Serie B level and was playing regional football as recently as 1999.
Monday 07 February
Juventus chief Moggi: No-one wins title in January
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi insists there's no need to panic after two defeats in a week. Reflecting on Saturday's shock against Palermo, Moggi said: "We're still top of the table.
"I think people are panicking because they believed we had already won the championship. No-one is crowned champions in January."
He added: "We should also pay tribute to Palermo. They played very well and deserved the three points. We're still first and must approach this situation calmly. There's no need to panic."
Buffon: Juventus took Palermo too lightly
Tribal Football
Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon says they took Palermo too lightly on Saturday night.
Juve dropped their second game in a week against Palermo and Buffon admitted: "We have made a mistake in the approach to the game. Like Wednesday against Sampdoria, we have given too much time to our opponents: this is what happens when you take the opposition too lightly.
"I welcome Milan getting closer, it will help us find again the motivation in order to enter the field with more conviction."
Palermo president: Barzagli could join Juventus
Tribal Football
Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has opened the door to Juventus to bid for defender Andrea Barzagli. Only last week Barzagli dismissed reports linking him with Juve, but Zamparini said last night: "Barzagli to Juventus? Nothing is impossible."
Azzurri: Lippi drops Del Piero
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi has dropped Alex Del Piero for the friendly against Russia, giving Morgan De Sanctis his first call.
The Italy boss was widely expected to leave out the Juventus star after he spent most of the last month of club football on the bench, so this decision also puts his position for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Scotland in serious doubt.
Lippi has given a first time call to Udinese goalkeeper Morgan De Sanctis following some impressive form. Antonio Cassano and Christian Vieri return from injury to have their first official meeting with Lippi since he took charge in the summer.
The fact that all three Roma stars are in the squad together suggests Lippi will test out the same trio upfront in the Azzurri jersey. Italy will take on Russia in an international friendly at Cagliari’s Stadio Sant’Elia on Wednesday evening.
Italy squad:
Gk: Buffon (Juventus), De Sanctis (Udinese);
D: Barzagli (Palermo), Bonera (Parma), F Cannavaro (Juventus), Chiellini (Fiorentina), Nesta (Milan), Materazzi (Inter), Zaccardo (Palermo), Pancaro (Milan);
M: Barone (Palermo), Blasi (Juventus), De Rossi (Roma), Diana (Sampdoria), Esposito (Cagliari), Gattuso (Milan), Pirlo (Milan);
F: Cassano (Roma), Gilardino (Parma), Montella (Roma), Totti (Roma), Vieri (Inter)
Sunday 06 February
Capello casts Samp loss aside
Football Italia
Juve are ready to move on after their shock defeat to Sampdoria, as Fabio Capello looks forward to a revival against Palermo this evening.
"These things happen," he said of Wednesday's 1-0 home loss. "If we look at the performance then it wasn't all that bad. Francesco Antonioli had one of the best games of his career in goal and Gianluigi Buffon never got to touch the ball."
Nonetheless, the result has cut Juve's lead at the top of the table to just five points and this trip to Sicily could be tricky. "We must take it one game at a time. All we need to know is that we are the leaders, so we'll look at the results coming in from other encounters at the final whistle and not before."
Jonathan Zebina and Ruben Olivera return from suspension, but the Bianconeri lose Mauro German Camoranesi, Olivier Kapo and Pavel Nedved.
"I read some sources claim that Kapo was substituted in the Samp game as a tactical decision," commented Capello. "He's out for a fortnight now, so that clearly wasn't the case. Nedved is better now and we hope to have him back in full training from Tuesday."
Alessandro Del Piero played the entire 90 minutes at the Delle Alpi and it ended in defeat for Juventus. Will he be pushed out by the return of Zlatan Ibrahimovic?
"Del Piero did his duty," assured the Coach. "He was also unlucky not to score with a good chance. Ibrahimovic is a very important player who can hold up the ball and help the squad. At times you really need a centre-forward with that physical presence."
The Swede is almost certain to partner David Trezeguet in Sicily, where is the counterpart to Palermo hitman Luca Toni. Juve have already been held to a 1-1 draw by Francesco Guidolin's team and Capello is not underestimating their potential.
"I think that Palermo are capable of aiming for a Champions' League spot. I said at the start of the season that the surprise packages would be Udinese, Sampdoria and Palermo. It'll be particularly difficult against a well-drilled defence."
Palermo 1 - 0 Juventus
Football Italia
Franco Brienza's goal sent Juve crashing to their second consecutive defeat and now Fabio Capello's lead could be cut to just two points. It's the first time the Sicilians have won this tie in Serie A since 1948-49.
The Bianconeri needed to recover from Wednesday's 1-0 home loss to Sampdoria, but they faced a perilous trip to Palermo - a team that had already held them in Turin earlier this season.
Alessandro Del Piero returned to the bench for the third time in four games, while Ruben Olivera and Jonathan Zebina were back from suspension. Mauro German Camoranesi was sidelined by a ban so Gianluca Zambrotta moved up into midfield and Palermo were missing the injured Davide Possanzini.
David Trezeguet tried to scissor-kick a Zlatan Ibrahimovic cross after four minutes, but he just missed the ball from a promising position. Moments later, Palermo had a classy counter-attack halted by a controversial offside decision. The Rosanero were putting on the pressure all over the park and it paid off after 13 minutes.
Gianluigi Buffon only punched an Eugenio Corini free kick out to the edge of the box, where Franco Brienza was quick to curl a left-foot effort into the net past his outstretched hand. They nearly doubled their lead moments later, as Luca Toni was left unmarked to run on to a long pass and he couldn't quite get his shot on target.
Juve fought back and Andrea Barzagli flung himself at Alessio Tacchinardi's volley to charge down the danger, but Palermo were having by far the better of the game and Buffon flew to palm a Fabio Grosso cutback out of Toni's path.
Massimo Mutarelli brought down Zambrotta on the very edge of the penalty area, but Olivera blazed the free kick well over from an excellent position. Juve were not defending well from set-pieces and Barzagli's glancing header turned another Corini free kick wide of the near post.
Brienza skipped past Lilian Thuram and his pass in to Toni was cleared with some difficulty by Fabio Cannavaro as Palermo kept running at the League leaders. Ibrahimovic was becoming frustrated and was fortunate to avoid a booking when he kicked out at Lamberto Zauli after the whistle had been blown for a push.
Zambrottaas Juve's most dangerous player and his strong run was closed down by Biava and Conteh together, then Olivera pounced on a poor clearance and slammed it over from 30 metres and a mis-hit Birindelli cross-shot nearly took Matteo Guardalben by surprise.
Many expected Alessandro Del Piero to be introduced for the second half, but instead Marcelo Zalayeta replaced defender Birindelli, while Stefano Morrone took over from Massimo Mutarelli. The Uruguayan took the left side of midfield and Zambrotta returned to his old fullback position.
Zebina found space down the right with five teammates in the centre, but the fullback opted to shoot instead of crossing and the chance went begging.
Buffon got down well to block a Grosso angled drive from a corner kick, but Juve went closer than they had all evening when a corner was not cleared effectively and Ibrahimovic saw his close-range effort charged down.
Buffon punched the ball off Toni's head as he lined up his finish, then the goalkeeper was crucial by rushing off his line to parry Brienza's brilliant solo effort with his stomach. The goalscorer had dribbled round two defenders and seen his shot smothered at the near post, while Simone Barone also fired the follow-up wide.
Zambrotta drilled just past the woodwork from a poorly cleared corner kick, but Juve's best chance was almost accidental. Zalayeta sprinted down the left flank and put in a low cross that Corini turned towards his own net, but Guardalben flew to palm out the surprise deflection.
Moments later at the other end Toni's header was deflected over by the back of Cannavaro's skull.
There was blind panic in the Juve area on 79 minutes, as Morrone's through ball found Santana totally unmarked and he chipped it over Buffon as he rushed off his line, but the Argentine somehow managed to curl it wide of an open goal.
Santana was fortunate to escape without serious injury after Ibrahimovic stamped on his shin, while Cannavaro performed a decisive tackle as Gonzalez prepared to run towards Buffon.
Palermo: Guardalben; Conteh, Barzagli, Biava; Mutarelli (Morrone 46), Corini, Barone, Grosso; Brienza (Gonzalez 71), Zauli (Santana 52); Toni
Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Birindelli (Zalayeta 46); Zambrotta, Emerson, Tacchinardi (Blasi 64), Olivera; Trezeguet, Ibrahimovic
Ref: De Santis
Capello: Don't panic
Football Italia
Fabio Capello has urged his side not to get too concerned despite their second defeat on the trot, while Palermo are relishing every moment of their victory.
"We gifted the goal to Palermo after 12 minutes and until that point the game was in the balance," stated the Juve boss after their 1-0 loss. "They were very well organised on set-pieces and were able to make the most of the counter-attack in the second half when we poured forward in search of an equaliser."
This was a more disappointing overall performance than the midweek 1-0 defeat to Sampdoria and alarm bells are ringing, especially if Milan beat Lazio on Sunday evening and cut the gap to just two points.
"We must keep our heads up and look forward," insisted Capello. "Let us not forget that we are still top of the table and will get ourselves back on track."
Francesco Guidolin was on Cloud Nine after Palermo's first League victory over Juventus since 1948-49. "I think this was the best Rosanero performance of the season so far," commented the Coach. "We were up against a fantastic team, so we had to raise our game."
The Sicilians sent a packed out Stadio Renzo Barbera wild with joy after Franco Brienza's winning goal, especially as goalkeeper Matteo Guardalben barely made a save.
"We dominated the match and deserved to win it. The thing that gave Juve the most problems was our constant pressure in midfield and determination. This is an incredible squad that surprises even me with its achievements."
Palermo are now temporarily in sixth place and battling for the Champions' League spots despite playing their first Serie A season in three decades.
"This day will remain in the history books," said Luca Toni as the Sicilian celebrations raged on through the night. "After a difficult week, we really wanted to give these fans something to enjoy and we managed it. We're playing well and must keep our feet on the ground."
Saturday 05 February
Juve flying without wings
Football Italia
League leaders Juventus are facing a winger shortage ahead of their crucial trip to Palermo on Saturday. The Bianconeri will be without three wide midfielders after Mauro Camoranesi became the latest to be ruled out.
Pavel Nedved and Olivier Kapo are definitely missing, given that the Czech ace is recovering from a knee injury and the Frenchman picked up a thigh strain in the 1-0 loss to Sampdoria. But Camoranesi will also be absent after the Italian international, who has been in sparkling form of late, was suspended for one match.
Boss Fabio Capello is now likely to start with Ruben Olivera, who missed the Samp game through suspension, on the right. He will also probably be forced to play Gianluca Pessotto at left-back, allowing Gianluca Zambrotta to advance into midfield.
It also seems certain that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will start in attack, even if it is unclear who will be relegated to the bench between Alessandro Del Piero and David Trezeguet.
Juventus signing Mutu joins Adams' rehab clinic
Tribal Football
New Juventus signing Adrian Mutu has started two weeks of rehabilitation at Tony Adams' Sporting Chance clinic. The Romanian, 26, is banned from football until 16 May after testing positive for cocaine last year. Under the terms of his ban, he must attend a programme of "education and rehabilitation" at Sporting Chance.
"He was given the choice of spending one or two weeks with us, and chose two, which is fantastic," Sporting Chance chief Peter Kay told BBC Sport. "It's our policy not to discuss the details of individual clients, as confidentiality is one of the keys to our success.
"However, it has been widely known for some time that Adrian will be attending the clinic. He'll be undergoing the highly successful programme we've developed here. It involves one-on-one psychotherapy, yoga, group skills and individual football training."
The Romanian will also have mentoring sessions with former Arsenal and England captain Adams, which will start on Friday at the Hertfordshire clinic.
Azzurri axe for Alex
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero's recent relegation to the Juventus bench is set to cost him his international place. The No 10 has started just one of his club's last four League games and he's expected to be left out of the Azzurri squad for next week's friendly against Russia.
Reports suggest that boss Marcello Lippi will pick five attackers for the Cagliari test on February 9. They are set to be Parma's Alberto Gilardino, Christian Vieri of Inter, plus the Roma trio of Antonio Cassano, Francesco Totti and Vincenzo Montella.
Should the 30-year-old be excluded, he would become a major doubt for the March 26 World Cup qualifier against Scotland. Especially after Lippi recently admitted that the majority of the squad selected to face Russia would be recalled next month.
The tactician, who will name his squad on Sunday, will also use next week's game to further assess his goalkeeping options for the future.
Juventus ace Gigi Buffon is the undisputed first choice, but the No 2 position is up for grabs. Ivan Pelizzoli of Roma was widely regarded as the best of the rest but he has been dropped by the Giallorossi in recent weeks. Flavio Roma of Monaco is expected to be called up, even if Udinese's Morgan De Sanctis is another possibility.
Inter midfielder Cristiano Zanetti may also be rewarded with a return to the set-up for the first time since Euro 2004.
