This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 25 February
Kapo sets himself Real goal
Football Italia
Juventus’ Olivier Kapo hopes to face Real Madrid in a fortnight after recovering from a thigh injury. Kapo, who moved to Turin from Auxerre in the summer, has not played since he tore a muscle during the 1-0 loss against Sampdoria on February 2.
"I don’t know if I’ll be in the squad for Sunday’s match against Siena," said the 24-year-old, who is now back in training. "It’s maybe a little bit too soon. My wish is to be totally available for the second leg against Real."
Juventus face a tough task if they are to qualify for the Champions' League quarter-finals, after losing the first leg 1-0 at the Bernabeu on Tuesday.After a slow start in Italy, Kapo was just starting to make an impact at the Stadio Delle Alpi when injury struck.
"The injury came at a really bad time," the France international said. "I was just starting to feel really good."
Kapo could be rushed back into the squad though, given that Pavel Nedved will miss the Siena game after receiving a blow to his head in midweek.
Blasi: We’re Not Real, But…
Goal.com
The Juventus midfielder is confident that the Bianconeri can get back on track, both in Serie A and in the Champions League. An optimistic Emanuele Blasi spoke about his team’s chances for the Champions League and Serie A, as Juve is currently facing a crisis of results in both competitions.
“We’re not Real, but a solid and effective team. We have been first since the start (Serie A) and therefore it means that we are strong. We weren’t disillusioned that the eight points over Milan were definite.”
Blasi will be suspended for the second leg of the Champions League match against Real Madrid at Delle Alpi.
Blasi: "No mistakes allowed against Siena"
Juventus.com
"The match against Real Madrid has been a good experience, a very tough match and after all we achieved a good result: 1-0 allows us to play for qualification in the second leg". Manuele Blasi is a fighter, someone who on the field runs for kilometres and is not the kind of guy who fears the defeat suffered at the Bernabeu.
At the Delle Alpi, on March, 9th, the Bianconeri have all the chances to turn the result over but Manuele won't be there. The yellow card he got in the first leg will force him to miss the return match with Real Madrid and it's shame because Blasi's ability not to get short of breath is more and more fundamental for the Bianconeri's game.
As he explains: "Yes, I run a lot and I willingly sacrifice myself as this is what I'm asked for by the coach. I sometimes may be less lucid when I receive the ball than the others and consequently less precise in passing it but after all my job is other than this.
"Mine is a role for which Juventus has strong players such as Tacchinardi and Appiah but I've been here for only one year and nevertheless I've been playing with continuity so I can be rather satisfied."
February has not been one of the most positive months for Juventus but Manuele believes they the worst has gone: "All the clubs have had hard times, Milan AC too, yet we knew how strong they are and we did not think we could have maintained the 8-point advantage until the end of the season.
"We're now equal, also because they've been luckier lately. We have to start again from square one but it's alright, somehow it's better this way. From now on we know we cannot make mistakes, starting from next Sunday against Siena.
"It will be hard because it is sometimes tougher to meet less titled clubs, which play more tight in defence, than against Real. Anyway, we've been on top of the table from the very beginning and we must believe in victory until the end without ever giving up".
Nedved’s Condition Worries Juve
Goal.com
The Czech player risks of missing out on the Champions League second leg match against Real Madrid. Pavel Nedved's head injury, which occurred during the first half of the match against Real Madrid on Tuesday night, might be more serious than expected.
The Juventus midfielder is still hoping to recover in time for the all-important second leg encounter against the Spanish giants, but the chances of seeing him on the pitch on the 9th of March are minimal.
A similar incident occurred to another Juve player in 2002 when Marco Di Vaio collided with O’Brien and lost his senses. He was back with the team two weeks later. In Nedved’s case it would be too late
Juventus chief impressed by Rodriguez, Essien
Tribal Football
Juventus chief Roberto Bettega took advantage of a visit to Monaco to scout two of French football's most exciting talents on the weekend. AS Monaco defender Julien Rodriguez and Lyon midfielder Mikael Essien were both watched by Bettega and the Juve director returned to Turin full of praise for both players.
Juve will keep tabs on their duo this season, though there are as yet no plans to prepare offers for either player.
Juventus chief Moggi rubbishes Ronaldo ref claims
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has rubbished claims from Real Madrid striker Ronaldo that the match officials will favour the Italian team when the two clubs meet again in the Champions League next month.
Real ran out 1-0 winners on Tuesday night in Spain and Ronaldo hinted he expects Juve to get all the 50-50 decisions when the return-leg is played in Turin.
Moggi rapped: "I'm not sure that Ronaldo and Real Madrid can complain about the refereeing on Tuesday evening. In fact, I'm sure they must be rather satisfied. I believe that this history must end here, it does no-one any good to talk like this."
Barca to renew Tacchi interest
Football Italia
Barcelona will make a summer bid for Alessio Tacchinardi of Juventus, according to reports in Italy. The Spanish giants are understood to have already made an unsuccessful approach in January but will return at the end of the season.
Although Barca netted Demetrio Albertini from Atalanta, the Nou Camp outfit are still monitoring Tacchinardi’s situation in Turin. The Italian international has been at the Stadio Delle Alpi for the last decade but his stint with the Bianconeri may be close to an end.
Boss Fabio Capello doesn’t see Tacchinardi as a first team regular and the club are ready to sell. There are two possible replacements for the former Atalanta player if he does head for the exit.
Milan’s Massimo Ambrosini would be interested in a move given that he is nothing more than a reserve at the San Siro. His agent did claim earlier this month that the player is liked by Capello and that his client would be considering his future in the summer.
Another possibility is Lecce youngster Cristian Ledesma. The Argentine continues to impress at the Via Del Mare and Juventus are ready to make a move.
Everton boss Moyes fancies Juventus' Appiah
Tribal Football
Everton boss Dave Moyes is keeping tabs on Juventus midfielder Stephen Appiah. The Ghana international will be made available in the summer and Moyes already knows he can sign the youngster for £3 million, says the Daily Star.
Appiah has struggled to make a first team impact this season under coach Fabio Capello, but remains highly-rated within Serie A circles.
Mascherano snubs Italian job
Football Italia
Italian clubs keen on netting Javier Alejandro Mascherano have been beaten to his signature by Corinthians. The Argentine starlet was being monitored by a host of Europe’s top sides, including Juventus and the Milan duo.
But the 20-year-old will be moving to Brazil at the end of June after River Plate accepted an £11m offer. Mascherano, who Diego Maradona once described as a "monster who plays football like a 30-year-old", has signed a five-year contract.
The central midfielder is Corinthians’ second high profile capture in the last six months after that of another Argentine. Carlos Tevez, a striker who Palermo were allegedly chasing, joined the outfit at the start of this season despite interest from English, Italian and Spanish clubs.
Thursday 24 February
Juventus - Siena
Football Italia
Having seen their eight-point lead wiped-out in the space of just four games, Juventus will be desperate to get back to winning ways at the Delle Alpi in Week 26. But they may find it tougher than expected against a rejuvenated Siena side, who have gone seven games without defeat under new boss Gigi De Canio.
The Turin giants are not in the greatest form having collected just one win and a draw in their last four games. A win over Udinese helped archive successive losses to Samp and Palermo but last week’s 0-0 draw at Messina allowed Milan to join them at the top of the table.
Capello has used a variety of systems recently but may be tempted to return to a 4-4-2 after testing 3-4-3 and 5-3-2 formations in recent weeks. Pavel Nedved should return to first team action, while doubts remain over Olivier Kapo and David Trezeguet – who missed the Real Madrid defeat with the flu.
Siena finally won in Week 25 when they beat Fiorentina after a run of six successive draws. Tore Andre Flo scored the only goal but goalkeeper Alex Manninger also impressed. He may be needed at his best again given that the ‘other’ Bianconeri are still without key me such as Ardito and Pecchia. Left-back Pasquale is suspended after his dismissal against the Viola.
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Blasi, Nedved; Del Piero, Ibrahimovic
Siena (probable): Manninger; Cirillo, Tudor, Portanova; Alberto, D’Aversa, Taddei, Vergassola, Falsini; Chiesa, Flo
Ref: To follow...
New Nedved blow for Juve
Football Italia
Juventus ace Pavel Nedved is out of the Siena game after being admitted to hospital for observation. The Czech international will spend the next three or four days in Turin’s Fornica clinic after being knocked unconscious last night.
Nedved, who had only just returned to the team following a month on the sidelines with a knee injury, was stretchered off in the 1-0 loss to Real Madrid after clashing heads with Raul Bravo.
"I immediately noticed that something was wrong with Nedved as he wasn’t moving," explained boss Fabio Capello last night. "He lost consciousness and can’t remember anything about the incident, but there’s nothing to worry about now and he’s already better."
However, Nedved was checked over by doctors this morning who suggested that he undergo a number of tests. The midfielder is therefore out of the Week 26 clash at the Delle Alpi, which poses more problems for Capello.
There is some good news though as David Trezeguet has recovered from the flu and will be able to face the Tuscan minnows on Sunday. It’s possible that the Coach could opt for a 3-4-3 formation to cope with Nedved’s loss, by fielding a trident attack of Trezeguet, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alex Del Piero.
Juventus signing Mutu happy with Roma rumours
Tribal Football
Juventus striker Adrian Mutu was delighted to be part of the travelling party to Madrid this week.
The Romania international was allowed to travel with the squad to Spain by coach Fabio Capello and said: "It was great. It was important for me to be part of this game. To breathe in the atmosphere, even though I could not play."
Asked about speculation linking him with AS Roma, Mutu replied: "The rumours do not annoy me. They inspire me. It is great to know people believe I can do a job at either Juventus or Roma. They are both very important clubs."
Bovo in good Kompany
Football Italia
Cesare Bovo and Vincent Kompany are the latest youngsters to be associated with Italian giants Juventus. The Delle Alpi outfit are keen to rejuvenate their central defensive options for the new campaign, due to the lack of cover for Lilian Thuram and Fabio Cannavaro.
Juve presently only have Paolo Montero and Ciro Ferrara at the club as possible alternatives, following the January departures of Nicola Legrottaglie, Mark Iuliano and Igor Tudor. Given that Montero is widely considered as past his best, and that Ferrara will retire in the summer, the club need some new faces.
Under-21 international Bovo is being monitored after his performances for struggling Parma this term. The stopper, who is on loan at the Stadio Tardini, is part owned by both Roma and Palermo.
The latter are willing to do business with the Bianconeri but the capital boys are not so keen, as they would like the former Lecce youngster at the Olimpico in the future. That may see Juve look elsewhere, with Anderlecht ace Kompany another possible acquisition.
The 18-year-old is highly-rated across Europe, leading to real interest from both Milan clubs recently. Juventus are apparently ready to offer £4m plus a player between Tudor, currently on loan at Siena, and striker Marcelo Zalayeta.
Juventus confident of seeing off Roma for Parma's Bovo
Tribal Football
Juventus are chasing Parma fullback Cesare Bovo. Juve coach Fabio Capello has identified the Italy U21 international as a top target for the summer market and has instructed director general Luciano Moggi to do what he can to bring the player to Turin.
The deal, however, will prove difficult for Moggi as Bovo's registration is actually co-owned by Palermo - and bitter rivals Roma. In Juve's favour is Bovo's reluctance to return to Roma. The defender is angry after being shunted out to Parma while Roma bought Philippe Mexes and Mateo Ferrari last summer.
The youngster's agent is also Alessandro Moggi, son of Luciano, which will prove a big advantage over Roma should Palermo agree to sell Juve their 50 per cent of Bovo's registration.
Juventus make cash, player offer for Anderlecht's Kompany
Tribal Football
Juventus have made a preliminary offer to Anderlecht for 18 year-old defender Vincent Kompany. The Belgium international is also being chased by Inter and AC Milan, but Juve director general Luciano Moggi is understood to have tabled a cash plus player bid for the youngster.
Juve are offering £4 million, plus Marcelo Zalayeta and Igor Tudor in exchange for Kompany. However, Anderlecht are expected to turn it down as they hold out for a straight £12 million cash deal.
Battle for Kompany begins
Sky Sports
The opening salvo in the summer battle for Belgian starlet Vincent Kompany looks to have come from Juventus. The Italian giants are understood to have had a bid of €6 million, plus either Marcelo Zalayeta or Igor Tudor, rejected by Les Mauves.
Anderlecht are looking for a fee in excess of €15 million for Kompany, who looks highly likely to depart The Constant Vanden Stock Stadion this summer.
Since making his debut aged just 17 in 2003, the classy central defender has attracted interest from a host of clubs and both Chelsea and Manchester United have appeared close to landing him at different points over the last two years.
North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham have also scouted him closely over the past 12 months. However, Kompany is by no means destined for England as all of Europe's top clubs are keen.
Juve's interest is obviously apparent, but Internazionale were very keen last summer and are likely to be gearing up for a renewed bid this summer - while Milan cannot be discounted according to reports in Belgium.
If the interest from The Premiership and Serie A was not enough, both Real Madrid and Barcelona stated their fondness of the player only last month.
Kompany is now likely to have his pick of clubs this summer and much will depend on his own personal preference. The Belgian international is currently finishing his studies and has admitted he will only leave Brussels when he passes his exams, meaning he may yet stay for another 12 months.
Baptista's agent leaves door open to Barcelona, Juventus
Tribal Football
The agent of Seville striker Julio Baptista has left the door open to a summer move to Barcelona. Juan Figer is currently in Spain and revealed yesterday: "Last year Barcelona was interested for this season, but Seville did not want to negotiate.
"But this year we are going to see what they are going to do. When there is a player who does well, he attracts many interested teams. The player has not signed a new contract, so we are going to wait to see what they do."
Asked about apparent interest from Juventus, Figer added: "There has been interest from many clubs around Europe."
Wednesday 23 February
Real Madrid 1 - 0 Juventus
Football Italia
Pavel Nedved was knocked unconscious on his comeback, but the woodwork twice saved Juve even if they lost 1-0 in Madrid. The Turin giants had been unbeaten in the Champions' League in the Group phase.
Nedved made his first appearance since spraining his knee on January 23 and was pushed into the starting line-up to help solve Juve's currrent crisis. The Bianconeri have picked up just four points from their last four Serie A games and were without flu victim David Trezeguet, so Alessandro Del Piero partnered Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Former Real boss Fabio Capello returned to face the club where he won the 1997 Spanish Liga title.
Juve knocked Real Madrid out of the competition in the 2003 semi-finals, losing 2-1 in the Bernabeu and winning 3-1 in Turin with goals from Trezeguet, Del Piero and Nedved. The Spaniards brought in new Coach Wanderley Luxemburgo after scraping through the Group phase and improved considerably, though there were problems with Ronaldo's lack of discipline over the last few weeks.
Zinedine Zidane faced his former club, while ex-Roma defender Walter Samuel and Director of Sport Arrigo Sacchi also provided an Italian connection.
The Bianconeri had a strong start with Emerson firing over and Del Piero forcing a foul out of Michel Salgado by sprinting past the defender. Roberto Carlos then found space and Ronaldo volleyed his cross off target.
There was bad news for Madrid, as after just nine minutes Salgado limped off with a knee injury and made way for Raul Bravo. Gianluigi Buffon then rushed off his line to pluck the ball off Ronaldo's foot.
Nedved had a good chance on an Ibrahimovic assist, but the challenge of Raul Bravo just did enough to ensure Iker Casillas could get hold of the finish. At the other end, Gianluca Zambrotta prevented Zidane from completing a great passing move with Ronaldo.
Del Piero's backheel found Emerson on the edge of the box and the Brazilian appeared to be tripped by former Roma teammate Samuel, but the referee incredibly waved play on. Soon after, Lilian Thuram was booked for a sliding challenge on Raul.
The first real danger to either side came on 24 minutes. Roberto Carlos out-sprinted Jonathan Zebina and crossed low for Raul, but his shot thumped the crossbar from six yards and Juve breathed a sigh of relief.
A promising Mauro Camoranesi run was closed down and Ibrahimovic's pass for Del Piero was too weak inside the area, but soon after Ibrahimovic cut back for Emerson and Casillas fingertipped his strike over the bar.
The deadlock was broken on the half-hour mark. A David Beckham free kick found Ivan Helguera's free header into the far corner, though he didn't seem to make good contact with it and the ball came off his shoulder.
Nedved clashed heads with Raul Bravo and seemed to momentarily lose consciousness, so he was stretchered off and replaced by Ruben Olivera. Reports from the lockerroom revealed the 2003 European Player of the Year didn't even know where he was when he came to.
Real took control towards the end of the first half - and after Nedved's exit - and there was danger when Figo passed for Ronaldo and he nutmegged Zambrotta, but Fabio Cannavaro was there to clear.
In the second half, Buffon punched a Roberto Carlos cross off Raul's head and Olivera slipped, but Luis Figo was unable to get his shot on target. There was panic in the area when Figo's pass reached Ronaldo in the centre, but Cannavaro performed a stunning challenge. Play had already been halted, however, for a debatable foul on the Portuguese international. Beckham's free kick was charged down by the defensive wall.
Del Piero was a little too late to get on the end of a fine Camoranesi through ball, but Buffon was tested and got down well to push a Ronaldo strike round the near post.
Buffon was again crucial moments later, parrying Zidane's rising angled drive and Raul incredibly turned the loose ball over from close range.
A scuffle broke out between Olivera and Thomas Gravesen and both were booked for their part in the row. The Uruguayan was more effective on the hour mark, when he ran on to Del Piero's pass and had his shot beaten away by Casillas from the edge of the box.
Zambrotta charged down the left and put in a cross for Emerson, but his header was too close to Casillas and well caught. Blasi was booked for a foul on Raul and will be suspended for the second leg in Turin. The former Perugia midfielder made way for Alessio Tacchinardi.
A low Ibrahimovic cross was parried by Raul Bravo, then at the other end Zambrotta blocked a Beckham cross with his arm, but the linesman pointed out it was involuntary as he was shielding his face. Zebina was perhaps fortunate to escape when he held Raul's jersey in the area.
Roberto Carlos did well to clear Zambrotta's cross before it could reach the head of Camoranesi at the back post.
Michael Owen replaced Ronaldo for the final 15 minutes, but Buffon was forced into another great save on Figo's cross-shot that was heading for the top corner. From the resulting corner kick, Buffon was beaten by a Walter Samuel header, but the woodwork again came to his aid.
Capello made a late change in a bid to get back into the game, replacing the quiet Del Piero with striker Marcelo Zalayeta.
Soon after, Ibrahimovic had a great chance to score for Juve by gathering an Emerson through ball, but again his shot was too central and straight at Casillas. Ibrahimovic sprung the offside trap and a great Roberto Carlos tackle stopped the Swede in his tracks.
<Post-Match Comments>
Real Madrid: Casillas; Salgado (Raul Bravo 9), Samuel, Helguera, Roberto Carlos; Beckham, Gravesen, Zidane, Figo; Raul, Ronaldo (Owen 76)
Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Blasi (Tacchinardi 69), Emerson, Nedved (Olivera 36); Del Piero (Zalayeta 81), Ibrahimovic
Ref: Michel (Slk)
Capello confident of going through
Football Italia
Fabio Capello claims he is content with the scoreline at the Bernabeu and is confident of turning the tie around in the second leg. “While Pavel Nedved was on the field we didn’t really struggle and Real Madrid feared us,” noted the tactician. “Ruben Olivera took a while to get into the game in a new position.”
There was also controversy, as Ivan Helguera’s winning goal came from a free kick awarded for a debatable foul on Zinedine Zidane. “The goal came from a free kick that shouldn’t have been awarded. It’s difficult for referees to keep their cool in this kind of arena where the crowd puts the pressure on them to favour the home side.”
Referee Lubos Michel also failed to stop play when Nedved clashed heads with Raul Bravo – an incident that saw the Czech international stretchered off.
“I immediately noticed something was wrong with Nedved as he wasn’t moving,” explained Capello. “He lost consciousness and can’t remember anything about the incident, but there’s nothing to worry about now and he’s already better.”
Nedved and David Trezeguet should be back to full fitness for the second encounter at the Stadio Delle Alpi.
“I don’t think this is a bad result to take away from Madrid. They were only able to hurt us from set-pieces and we had two great scoring opportunities and didn’t make the most of them. It won’t be easy, but we have every chance of turning this tie around in Turin.
"Of course, to lose 2-1 would have been better, but I think today we proved that we are improving. The main danger in the second leg will be the counter-attack.”
Former Serie A stars proved decisive on the day, while both Raul and Walter Samuel rattled the frame of the goal.
“Zidane was on one of his best days and, along with Roberto Carlos, was the key figure in making the whole team play. In a fortnight we’ll work something out for him, but our main priority will be scoring two goals,” concluded the Juve Coach.
Former Inter star Ronaldo claimed Real Madrid would go to Italy looking to further increase their tally. “I have a bit of pain in my toe at the moment and wasn’t at my best today, but I hope to do better in the second leg,” said the Brazilian.
“I think the scoreline could have been even greater, especially as we hit the woodwork twice and weren’t able to make the most of these chances. This team always tries to score goals regardless of the situation, so it’s unlikely we’ll emerge from the Delle Alpi without getting at least one.”
Ronaldo also caused controversy this week by claiming it was impossible to win in Serie A because the referees favoured Juventus – an ironic call considering the manner in which Real got their winner today.
“I was only talking about what I lived through in Italy. What I said was hardly new!” grinned Il Fenomeno. “Unfortunately, referees make mistakes and often more in one direction than another. The free kick on Zidane could have been given and it could have been waved away.”
Alessandro Del Piero had a bright start, but rather lost his way during the second half and was eventually substituted by Marcelo Zalayeta.
“I think we did well for the first half-hour, then lost our shape a little and gave these great players too much room for manoeuvre,” said the captain. “When Nedved went off, we also lost a lot of our propulsion from midfield.”
“We knew it was going to be tough here and had some good chances, so clearly there is regret as it could have been 1-1, but objectively Real could also have scored more. We’ll study Madrid’s away games and try to overturn this result by really attacking their defence, which is their weakest area. We look ahead to the second leg with optimism.”
Fabio Cannavaro proved decisive with some last-ditch tackles and explained what it’s like for a defender to face the Galacticos.
“In these games all you need is a set-piece to break the deadlock. They managed it and we didn’t,” said the former Parma man. “The problem in playing here is that Real are constantly moving around and don’t give you any precise points to focus on.”
Cannavaro's letter to supporters
Juventus.com
Dear supporters,
I’m particularly happy to appear on Juventus Beat right now as I believe, more than ever before, that we can do great things this season. Why? It’s easy, because I’m sure the worst time is over: we have had a tough February, when we had to meet Sampdoria, Palermo and Udinese (let alone Messina), that is to say the clubs with the best physical condition of the championship; we faced Real Madrid, one the strongest and most titled clubs in the world; let me also underline how we’ve had a good deal of bad luck in more than an occasion.
Yet we’re still there, on top of the Serie A table and qualification to Champions’ League quarter finals is within our reach. What about Real winning 1-0 at the Bernabeu? Well, on March, 9th they’ll have to come to the Delle Alpi, our home, your home! With your help, if we feel you close to us, I’m sure we can make it.
Meanwhile, however, our minds must get back to Serie A and to Sunday’s match: Siena are playing well, they’re thrilled by the Tuscan derby they won against Fiorentina and we’ll have to be very cautious with them. And I can assure you we’ll take caution in every single action on the field because we absolutely want to win and get back to winning tracks...until the end.
Yours faithfully
Fabio Cannavaro
Del Piero Replies To Ronaldo
Goal.com
The Brazilian ace accused Juventus of being favoured by referees in Italy.
Alessandro Del Piero reacted angrily at Ronaldo’s insinuations (“With Inter I never managed to win against Juve; either they won thanks to the quality of their players or thanks to some referee decisions”) and responded by hinting that Real are actually favoured by referees in the European competitions.
“Ronaldo does not have to worry,” stated the Bianconero captain. “We’re in the Champions League, an international match, nothing to worry about and anyway Real-Juve is being played”
“This is the classic match which everyone wants to play; it gives you an exceptional motivation. We want to play greatly and we’re sure we have the qualities to do well.”
Juventus medical chief insists Trezeguet has flu
Tribal Football
Juventus medical chief Riccardo Agricola has rubbished suggestions that David Trezeguet's absence from the first team over the past week were NOT due to a bout of flu.
It was reported in Spain that Trezeguet had not been forced out of last night's clash with Real Madrid and Saturday's draw with Messina with flu, but because he had had a bust-up with coach Fabio Capello.
But Agricola declared yesterday morning: "Ten of days ago David was hit by a very strong bout of flu which forced him off the field and into bed. For some days the boy has been recovering, but he is still a little under the weather.
"Taking him to Madrid would have been completely useless: better that he recuperates in Turin."
Inter Milan scout Suarez checks on Monaco's Evra
Tribal Football
Inter Milan have posted celebrated scout Luis Suarez to check on the form of AS Monaco left-back Patrice Evra.
Suarez saw Evra in action against Lille and also watched him at PSV Eindhoven last night. The 24 year-old has emerged as a major target for Inter, with coach Roberto Mancini desperate to find a long-term solution to his troubled left-side of midfield.
Evra is also being tracked by Real Madrid and Chelsea and while he is contracted to Monaco until 2008, is now prepared to move from France at the end of this season. Monaco rate Evra in the £6 million class.
Chelsea monitoring Monaco fullback Evra
Tribal Football
Chelsea are monitoring AS Monaco left-back Patrice Evra. The French international has emerged as a target for Blues boss Jose Mourinho ahead of the summer market. Evra is also being trailed by Real Madrid and Inter Milan and is regarded as one of the brightest young fullback talents in Europe.
Monaco value Evra at £6 million and Mourinho is understood to have discussed the youngster with Chelsea chief Peter Kenyon. Kenyon was at Old Trafford when Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was showing serious interest in Evra before he eventually went for Gabriel Heinze at the end of last season.
Mourinho is desperate to land a new left-back for next season and has turned his attentions to Evra with his interest in Arsenal's Ashley Cole now likely to peter out into nothing. The Blues boss already has a detailed dossier on Evra after facing AS Monaco last season with former club Porto in the Champions League final.
Tuesday 22 February
Capello: Real fear us
Football Italia
Juventus boss Fabio Capello believes that Champions’ League opponents Real Madrid fear his side. The two teams meet in Spain on Tuesday, just days after a weakened Real lost 2-0 at home to Athletic Bilbao.
"The fact that they left three first team players out (Zinedine Zidane, Raul and Ronaldo) on Saturday shows that they are worried," said the tactician.
However, the former Real tactician admits that the two-legged tie is a well-balanced one given the strength of both sides. "Real have champions who can create a winning move at any time," he continued. "I would say we both have a 50-50 chance of qualifying for the last eight.
"They have changed the way they play recently following the arrivals of (Coach) Wanderley Luxemburgo and (technical director) Arrigo Sacchi. They are now more disciplined in defence which makes them much more dangerous than before.
"We are in good shape though and fully focused on this match. We have the ability to put in a great performance."
Juventus will return to a 4-4-2 system after Pavel Nedved recovered from injury. Alex Del Piero will partner Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the absence of the flu hit David Trezeguet. Meanwhile, Del Piero was asked to comment on Ronaldo’s claim that Juve are ‘aided’ by referees in Italy.
"His comments haven’t caused any problems within our camp," stated the captain. "Now is not the time to talk about the past. We have a game tomorrow and we are just as motivated as we were two years ago when we beat them in the semi-finals.
"I just hope that at the end of these ties, I will have been a protagonist."
Claims of Capello bust-up with Juventus ace Trezeguet
Tribal Football
Confusion has reigned over David Trezeguet's absence from Saturday's disappointing draw with Messina. Reports have emerged from Spain that Trezeguet was dropped by Juve coach Fabio Capello for the game after breaking curfew last week and failing to impress in training.
Juve have rubbished the reports, insisting the Frenchman was held up in bed with the flu. But adding weight to the Spanish press claims was Trezeguet's appearance in public on Sunday in a short sleeve shirt, laughing and joking with friends without any noticeable signs of suffering from a bout of flu.
Juventus coach Capello includes Mutu in Madrid party
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello included Adrian Mutu in his squad for tonight's Champions League clash with Real Madrid.
The Romania international has been in England undergoing rehab from a drug addiction and has been rewarded for his commitment to getting over his habit by Capello with an invitation to take part in the build-up for the match at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Mutu travelled with the Juve squad yesterday afternoon and will take part in training before sitting with Juve officials in the directors box at the Bernabeu to watch his new teammates in action.
Refs favour Juve, says Ronaldo
Football Italia
Real Madrid’s Ronaldo has taken a swipe at Juventus on the eve of their Champions’ League clash. The former Inter ace admitted that they are a great side but claims that their success may be aided.
"I have bad memories of Juventus because it was almost impossible to beat them in Italy," said the Brazilian. "That wasn’t just because of their players but also as they were constantly favoured by referees. It was impossible to win at a club like Inter."
Ronaldo twice ‘lost’ the Scudetto to Juventus during his Nerazzurri career, one possibly as a result of a controversial loss at the Delle Alpi in the 1997-98 season - when he had a good penalty appeal rejected.
"Tuesday’s game will be like a final," added Ronaldo, as he archived his past at today’s media conference. "I want to leave my mark on it with a goal. We know that Juventus are a great side and they will come here to win but we shouldn’t worry so long as we play to our strengths."
Ronaldo, who does seem to have a frosty relationship with new Real boss Wanderley Luxemburgo, is expected to start the game. That after he was dropped to the bench for the weekend’s 2-0 home defeat to Athletic Bilbao, a loss that saw Barcelona move seven points clear in La Liga.
Meanwhile, Zinedine Zidane is convinced that Real will be able to get the better of his former side.
"It is an important match for us because if we win it will mean that we can beat anybody," said the Frenchman. "Juventus are a strong rival but we really want to win the Champions’ League this season."
The ex-Juventus ace is also desperate to silence some of his own critics during the two-legged affair. "I know all eyes will be on me," he added. "I want to prove wrong those who are saying that I am finished."
Real Madrid (probable): Casillas; M.Salgado, Helguera, Samuel, R.Carlos; Beckham, Gravesen, Figo, Zidane; Raul, Ronaldo.
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Blasi, Nedved, Ibrahimovic, Del Piero.
Helguera: Real Madrid will dump Juventus
Tribal Football
Real Madrid defender Ivan Helguera is confident Saturday's defeat by Athletic Bilbao was only a blip and that "we will eliminate Juve" in their Champions League clash tonight.
"For sure, Saturday was very disappointing, but you have to remember that before then we had seven consecutive victories," insisted Helguera. "Playing any Italian team is always complicated, but I am confident and I say now what I said two months ago: we will eliminate Juve.
"I think we can win if we take our chances. I know we will create many more chances than Juve, its important we take advantage of that. Juve are a team that defends very well. They do not play like Real Madrid or Barcelona, but their forwards take advantage of the chances that are made.
"We must score goals at home. But I am confident we can also score in Turin as we have very fast players who play well off the break like Ronaldo."
Lippi eyes Euro success
Sky Sports
Italy coach Marcello Lippi is hoping that all the Italian clubs are successful in the UEFA Champions League, for the benefit of the national team. The Azzurri boss is praying for a repeat of the events of 2003 that saw Internazionale, Juventus and Milan all claim a place in the last four of Europe's premier competition.
The tactician believes that the high-pressure nature of such games is invaluable experience for any player, and will be cheering his men on in the knockout stages which begin this week.
"Selfishly I dream that what happened two years ago could be repeated," Lippi told Gazzetta dello Sport. "Three Italian teams in the semi-final, it isn't impossible, and it would be important for our players to again have the taste of big international wins, for my Italy too."
However the Serie A sides have tough challenges awaiting them, most notably Milan who travel to Old Trafford on Wednesday to face Manchester United. Lippi singled out two of United's precociously talented young stars, and praised Sir Alex Ferguson's side for their resilience ahead of the clash.
"Milan have class but it will be hard, recently Manchester United found conviction and awareness again," Lippi continued. "They win with ease, and they have those two young players, [Wayne] Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, who will become really great."
Meanwhile city rivals Internazionale face reigning champions Porto, although Lippi believes they are not as competent without their inspirational ex-coach.
"Porto aren't the same they were with [Jose] Mourinho, but they are recovering important players and they found their balance. But Inter this season have done good things in Europe."
The final side in the triumvirate, Juventus, face nine-time winners Real Madrid, and the Spanish outfit will be looking to put to rest the ghosts of 2003 when the Bianconeri defeated them in the semi-final. With key players in contention the galacticos have a good chance despite their faltering league form this season.
"Real will be out for revenge. Then there is the return of [Zinedine] Zidane, Raul and Ronaldo," explained Lippi. "You have to not judge the Champions League based only on league matches, it's a different thing."
Cassano To Juve – Livorno’s President
Goal.com
According to Aldo Spinelli, the President of newly promoted Serie A side Livorno, Antonio Cassano will surely go to Juventus in June. Under normal circumstances, this declaration would be considered as just another transfer rumour speculation, but in this case there are some important elements which give value to this statement.
Livorno have in fact ‘helped’ Juventus to sign Adrian Mutu as the Bianconeri were unable to register another foreign player in their roster. Mutu’s purchase immediately raised the suspicions of many pundits who believed that the Romanian would be exchanged for Cassano at the end of the season.
This theory was immediately denied by both Juve and Roma, but now with Spinelli’s affirmation, Cassano’s future looks already set. With all probability the Bianconeri and Giallorossi will keep on denying this so not to disrupt the harmony of either side’s dressing room and we shall have to wait till June to find out the truth.
Roma unaware of Cassano ‘deal’
Football Italia
Roma insist they haven’t agreed to sell Antonio Cassano to Juventus at the end of the season. Livorno President Aldo Spinelli has claimed that the move will take place, with the Turin giants offering Adrian Mutu as part of the deal.
But Roma chief executive Rosella Sensi maintains that she is unaware of the proposed transfer. "I don’t know anything about it," she told Sky microphones. "Spinelli probably wants to candidate himself to be our next sporting director."
Spinelli is understood to have made the comments given his alleged ‘inside knowledge’ after he recently aided Juve in the January capture of Mutu. Cassano’s future has been at the centre of much speculation as his contract – plus those of Francesco Totti and Vincenzo Montella – expires in 2006.
"Roma are keen to extend them all," added the President’s daughter. "Let me also underline that Cassano was in the crowd today. "Despite being suspended and ill, he wanted to show that he is very committed to this team."
Everton keeping tabs on Juventus youngster Appiah
Tribal Football
Everton are monitoring Stephen Appiah's situation at Juventus. The Ghana international midfielder has failed to nail down a regular first team place at Juve under coach Fabio Capello and has already been offered to Lecce as a makeweight for Argentine Cristian Ledesma.
Lecce knocked back Juve's offer, but it's looking more likely the Turin giants will seek a buyer for Appiah in the summer to free up a non-EU slot in their squad. Everton boss Dave Moyes is tracking the youngster, but will face competition from Atletico Madrid, Brescia and Fiorentina should he decide to go for the Ghanaian.
Monday 21 February
Trez misses Madrid trip
Football Italia
David Trezeguet won’t make the trip to Madrid, though Pavel Nedved is in the squad. The French international also missed Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Messina with a bout of flu and he has still not recovered from the virus.
Juventus medical staff claim he is in no condition to travel, so Trezeguet will remain in Turin, ensuring Alessandro Del Piero partners Zlatan Ibrahimovic upfront. Paolo Montero and Olivier Kapo are also staying behind.
There was some good news for Fabio Capello, as Nedved is included in the side flying out to Spain for the first leg of the knockout round against Real. The 2003 European Player of the Year has not set foot on the field since suffering a sprained knee in late January, but is back in training.
Nonetheless, it’s unlikely he’ll be able to start the encounter at the Bernabeu Stadium, so Capello could be forced into another tactical reshuffle.
Zlatan enjoying the high life
ESPN Soccernet
Juventus striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is not a man who is easily overawed, but he admits the idea of taking to the field at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu stadium on Tuesday night sends a shiver down his Swedish spine.
Often accused of being arrogant, Ibrahimovic has taken to the surrounds of Italy’s Serie A after several seasons of impressive goalscoring feats with Ajax in Holland.
His self-confidence means he will not feel as if he has a point to prove against Beckham, Zidane and the rest in this clash of the European titans, but many an eye will cast a critical judgement of the performance this £11million striker delivers.
A prolific scorer with his national team, Ibrahimovic is convinced his finest hour is about to come in a Juventus shirt and where better than the Bernabeu to prove he is a world beater.
"Playing against Real Madrid is a dream tie and with all respect, I'd rather meet them than Monaco, Leverkusen or Porto, even though they are the reigning champions," begins the ever-bullish target man. "As a professional you always want to match yourself against the best and Real come into that category.
"A few years ago, it would have been hard to imagine myself on the same pitch as Zidane, Figo, Ronaldo and all their other stars. Now it's a reality and I can't wait.
"If it hadn't been Real, I would have loved to be on the same pitch as Barcelona and Ronaldinho. He does it all. He scores, he makes chances and throughout a game he plays an important role for Barca. He plays the sort of instinctive football I love."
Ibrahimovic will be in the minority when he claims to be pleased with a draw against the nine-time European Champions, but such is the confidence of this young man that he will genuinely relish the two games that lie in wait.
The fact that he is playing at Juventus is proof that he is a player boasting plenty of ability, but the jury remains hung on whether he can move on to the next level.
As Mateja Kezman has proved at Chelsea this season, converting goals from the Dutch league on to a more demanding stage is no easy task, but Ibrahimovic has started well in his new league and is unconcerned by those who doubt his ability to make the step up.
"Although I only moved from Ajax to Juve in the summer, I feel as if I'm already a better player," he continues. "In the Dutch League you can get by with good technique alone. In Italy it's completely different.
"It's physically tougher and you have be on top of your game from the first to the last minute. There are no easy games in Serie A and that makes you harder as a professional.
"Thanks to Fabio Capello and the other members of the Juve coaching staff, I've learnt something new every day. When you go to a new club, it's vital to feel wanted, to have the trust of the coach. That's what I have with Capello.
"In a few months at Juve, I have learned more than I would have done at Ajax, so it has been the right move for my career."
Scoring on his Serie A debut against Brescia provided Ibrahimovic with the ideal platform to launch his career in Italian football and he has followed it up with important strikes against the likes of Inter, Lazio, Parma and, most recently Udinese.
With Frenchman David Trezeguet injured for a lengthy period, Ibrahimovic emerged as a key man in Capello's title challenge and for a young man in his first season at a major Italian club, he can be proud of his efforts to date. Now comes the section of the season where he can turn promise into tangible success and he is relishing the task.
Reigning European champions Porto put a lie to the idea that so-called smaller sides cannot scale the heights in the Champions League, but Ibrahimovic suggests he has a more realistic chance of landing the ultimate prize in the game while wearing the famous black and white stripes of Juventus.
"We know just how much the Champions League means to a club like Real," he says. "They like to think it's their competition and for Juve it's the same. This is going to be a great showdown between two massive clubs and obviously we're in for two intense games. It's going to be about desire, concentration and who takes their chances.
"Juve is a club for winners. We genuinely believe we are going to win both the Serie A title and the Champions League this season. We realise it's not ours for the taking, that it requires a lot of effort and determination. It's the mentality of Juventus and our coach Fabio Capello. All the ingredients for success are here.
"There are world-class players in all parts of the field at Juve. I especially enjoy playing with Pavel Nedved. He's phenomenal. He has the energy, the technique, the grit, the vision. He's always there to help and brings the best out of me.
"We've stored away a great deal of confidence from the group stage of the Champions League. We beat Bayern Munich twice, only let in one goal in six games and most importantly, we remained unbeaten. Knockout ties are of course different, but we know what it takes to win.
"I enjoyed my time in Holland, but there is more chances to win a competition like this at a club like Juventus. We had many great young players at Ajax, but they are learning and here we have established world-class players. That's the difference."
A couple of goals against Real Madrid will push Zlatan Ibrahimovic a step closer to becoming the legend he believes he will be.
Sacchi: Juve have the advantage
Football Italia
Arrigo Sacchi maintains Juventus are the favourites to win their Champions’ League clash, but that Real Madrid are prepared for the challenge.
“Fabio Capello’s side are, along with Chelsea, the worst possible draw we could have had,” stated the Madrid director of football ahead of Tuesday’s first leg meeting. “We are ready for this battle, even if we’re only a quarter of the way to becoming a great squad.
"Our Coach has only had six weeks to work with the team, so effectively we’re six months behind Juventus.”
Brazilian boss Wanderley Luxemburgo seems to have turned their season around, though he has clashed with Ronaldo over tactics and Il Fenomeno’s tardiness. Madrid lost 2-0 at home to Athletic Bilbao this weekend and Michel Salgado is a doubt to feature on Tuesday.
The Bianconeri are still unbeaten in Europe, but their overall form has dipped considerably in the time since the Champions’ League group phase was completed. Some of that is down to the absence of Pavel Nedved, who is a doubt for the Bernabeu game due to that knee injury.
“Nedved is a player I have always admired,” continued former Italy and Milan Coach Sacchi. “I tried to sign him at every club I ran and really respect him. If the Czech midfielder is on the field, then that will be an extra problem for us.”
Meanwhile, former Real Madrid boss Capello has looked to the Spaniards and sparked more transfer gossip.
“Raul is an exceptional player that always makes the difference,” said the Juve Coach. “I know him well and won the Liga title with him in the side. I’m sure he’d settle in quickly to Serie A football and wouldn’t hesitate to sign him.”
Capello would love Real Madrid's Raul at Juventus
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello has admitted he'd love to sign Real Madrid captain Raul. Capello worked with Raul while he was coach of Real and is aware of the difficult season the Spanish international has experienced this campaign.
"I would sign Raul," said Capello over the weekend. "He is an exceptional player who can make the difference in any game. I know him well, I worked with him when we won the championship. I know he would be successful in Italy."
Corinthians to trump Juventus for Mascherano
Tribal Football
Juventus and Inter Milan could be trumped by Corinthians in the race for River Plate midfielder Javier Mascherano. The Argentina international is being chased by some of the biggest clubs in Europe, but confirmed a concrete offer has arrived from Brazilian powerhouse Corinthians.
"Their interest in me is very much concrete and I am very proud about that," he said. "I know Carlos Tevez and he has spoken to me well about the atmosphere there. It would be a great thing to go to play in Brazil with them if I leave next June."
Sunday 20 February
Capello rings the changes
Football Italia
Without Pavel Nedved and David Trezeguet, Fabio Capello admits he’s considering another tactical experiment in Messina today.
“I have a few ideas in my mind, but it all depends on the players at my disposal,” said the Juventus boss. “I can say that Alessandro Del Piero will start, but I’m keeping the rest under wraps.”
There are reports that the 3-4-3 system used against Udinese last week can be revived with Marcelo Zalayeta taking over from the Frenchman, or Ruben Olivera could be played out wide.
Trezeguet is ruled out by a bout of flu, but Nedved’s knee injury has kept him out for several weeks and it’s increasingly unlikely he’ll be able to start in Madrid next Tuesday.
“Pavel is getting better and we’ll evaluate his condition on Sunday,” explained Capello ahead of the Champions’ League clash with Real. “If he is in full training then he’ll make the trip to Spain.”
First of all, the Bianconeri must get a positive result at Messina to ensure they keep Milan off their trail as the Serie A lead has been cut to just two points.
“Messina are a dangerous side, especially on home turf, and they can be very effective on the counter-attack. My players know that two points are a slim lead and won’t be distracted by the upcoming European tie.”
The Sicilians lost their last home game 4-1 to Milan, but that was only their second defeat of the season at the Stadio San Filippo after Lecce’s Week 7 result.
Messina 0 - 0 Juventus
Football Italia
Both teams hit the frame of the goal in this fiery encounter, but Messina succeeded in stifling Juve for a 0-0 draw in Sicily. This tie had not been played in the top flight for more than 40 years, but Juventus have never won in Sicily.
Fabio Capello was forced to do without Pavel Nedved and David Trezeguet, so he switched to a 5-3-2 system with Alessandro Del Piero partnering Zlatan Ibrahimovic upfront and Gianluca Zambrotta and Jonathan Zebina pushing forward from the flanks.
Massimo Donati's tame effort went wide of the near post, then Del Piero curled a couple of free kicks just over the bar. The Juve captain latched on to Zambrotta's cutback and fired it past the upright with the outside of his foot.
The Bianconeri's best chance came after 25 minutes when Marco Storari could only beat away a fierce Del Piero effort, then Ibrahimovic failed to make the most of the loose ball by hitting it straight into the goalkeeper's arms.
Play continued and at the other end of the pitch Arturo Di Napoli's penalty appeals for a Lilian Thuram nudge were waved away.
However, Messina could not have gone closer to opening the lead than on the half-hour mark. Gaetano D'Agostino's free kick found Riccardo Zampagna's diving header and the ball smashed off the near post with Gigi Buffon left stranded.
There were more spot-kick appeals when Di Napoli and Zampagna wrestled with two defenders for the ball around the six yard box. Moments later Del Piero sprinted through the centre and cut through for Emerson, but just as Ibrahimovic was preparing to pounce on Rahman Rezaei's clearance, Marco Storari smothered the danger.
Buffon did well to hold his ground and get behind a powerful long-range strike from Zampagna, then Di Napoli scissor-kicked a D'Agostino cross wide, though the linesman had already flagged for offside. On the stroke of half-time, Rezaei left Del Piero unmarked to chest down a searching free kick, but his half-volley was off target.
Andre Kpolo Zoro and Mauro Camoranesi had a scuffle just before the break and the defender was booked for his reaction, but replays show the Juventus player had kicked out in an off the ball incident.
Gianluca Zambrotta had the first chance of the second half when he hooked the ball with his right foot and spun round for a left-foot shot that dribbled just past the upright.
Alessandro Parisi needed an acrobatic clearance to prevent Zebina tapping in a splendid Emerson pass to the back post. Del Piero touched on a free kick that Swedish international Ibrahimovic slammed over the bar.
Capello made another tactical change on the hour mark, introducing Marcelo Zalayeta for defender Zebina and switching to a 3-4-3 system.
The Messina defence was taken totally by surprise moments later, as Zambrotta ran down the left flank and rolled the ball across for a totally unmarked Ibrahimovic. He was behind the ball, so was not in an offside position, but he incredibly fired on to the frame of the goal from seven yards with only the 'keeper to beat.
The Sicilians also made adjustments, introducing midfielders Domenico Giampa' and Rafael in place of the disappointing Ivica Iliev and D'Agostino. The final stages were hampered by a heavy rainstorm over the Stadio San Filippo.
Substitute Rafael sprung the offside trap, but failed to make the most of this opportunity as his first touch let him down. Juve were forced into their second change, as Paolo Montero limped off with a muscular problem and made way for Ciro Ferrara.
With ten minutes to go Ibrahimovic sprung the offside trap and again fired straight at brave goalkeeper Storari, but Emerson shoved Zoro in the back as he cleared off the line and Messina emerged unscathed. Despite six minutes of stoppages, Capello's men were unable to break them down and it ends 0-0.
Messina: Storari; Zoro, Rezaei, Cristante, Parisi; Iliev (Giampa' 71), Zanchi, D'Agostino (Rafael 71), Donati; Zampagna (D'Alterio 94), Di Napoli
Juventus: Buffon; Zebina (Zalayeta 61), Thuram, Montero (Ferrara 75), Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Blasi (Tacchinardi 89); Del Piero, Ibrahimovic
Ref: Farina
Capello: We're unlucky
Football Italia
Fabio Capello has put Juve’s latest stutter in Sicily down to pure bad luck and explains his tactical experiments.
“We had two good chances in the first half, although they did push us and I confess we struggled,” he commented after the 0-0 draw at Messina. “After the break, we had some incredible scoring opportunities and didn’t take them. We’re unlucky at the moment and the ball just isn’t going in.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic was their most dangerous player, but twice he failed to find the net with only the goalkeeper to beat, but Alessandro Del Piero was voted Man of the Match after his fine performance.
“Del Piero was great in the first half, dribbling past players and creating a wonderful chance for Emerson,” continued Capello. “He played well and the whole team raised their game in the second period, but clearly Alessandro is improving with each match.”
At this rate, and with David Trezeguet struggling with flu, it’s likely Del Piero will earn a starting place at the Bernabeu on Tuesday evening. “We are in good physical condition, so that is the most important thing. We still have to see how we set ourselves out against Real Madrid.”
Capello staged another tactical revolution for this encounter, playing with a 3-5-2 system that turned to 5-3-2 under pressure.
“We played with three defenders, then Del Piero and Mauro Camoranesi supporting Ibrahimovic. If Pavel Nedved returns then we’ll see how to adjust our tactics, as he has characteristics that give us real depth and pace.”
The result means Juve have earned just four points in their last four games and if Milan beat Cagliari this evening they will catch the Bianconeri at the top of the table.
"If there was a team that deserved to win this, then that was Messina," said Riccardo Zampagna. "I hit the woodwork and there was a penalty for a push on me. We played very well and should have come away with all three points."
Saturday 19 February
Trez and Nedved sidelined
Football Italia
Leaders Juventus will face Messina on Saturday without both David Trezeguet and Pavel Nedved. The pair have been omitted from the squad for the Week 25 clash, escalating fears that the Czech ace will also miss the Champions’ League game against Real Madrid on Tuesday.
"Trezeguet currently has a fever and he won’t travel to Messina, but we are optimistic that he will be fine for Madrid," stated boss Fabio Capello. "Nedved hasn’t made it either and he is a doubt for Real. At this moment in time he won’t play, even if we might still take him to Spain to see whether to risk him for part of the game."
The midfielder has been on the sidelines with a knee injury since the victory over Brescia on January 23. Although the Bernabeu clash is undoubtedly the club’s biggest game of the season so far, Capello wants his side to focus on one match at a time.
"Messina will be very difficult," he stated ahead of the Stadio San Filippo tie. "They are a side to be feared at home. We are now not thinking about Real because we can’t afford any mistakes if we want to maintain our Serie A leadership."
It is unclear at this stage what sort of side Capello will select tomorrow, but Alex Del Piero will probably partner Zlatan Ibrahimovic in attack. The tactician is also likely to revert back to a 4-4-2, despite using a 3-4-3 against Udinese and testing a 5-3-2 in training this week.
Squad: Buffon, Ferrara, Tacchinardi, Montero, Pessotto, Emerson, Ibrahimovic, Del Piero, Chimenti, Birindelli, Camoranesi, Appiah, Zambrotta, Blasi, Thuram, Bonnefoi, Olivera, Zalayeta, Zebina, Cannavaro.
Maresca: My future in Fiorentina, Juventus hands
Tribal Football
Fiorentina midfielder Enzo Maresca admits he doesn't know if he will be returning to Juventus in the summer. Maresca has impressed in Florence while on-loan from Juve and said: "My future will be decided between Juve and Fiorentina in June.
"I am tired of changing teams, I want to stop. The president Andrea Della Valle knows my intentions, but now it is premature to know where I will end up."
Borussia gems under observation
Football Italia
Borussia Dortmund’s financial crisis could lead to a number of their star players heading for Serie A in the summer. The German outfit, who beat Juventus in the 1997 Champions’ League Final, may be forced to sell their biggest assets in a bid to avoid bankruptcy.
Despite regularly receiving crowds of close to 80,000 at the Westfalen Stadium, they expect their losses for the financial year ending in June to reach almost £50m. That has inevitably led to reports that they will be forced to sell some of their star players at the end of the season.
Tomas Rosicky, a Czech international midfielder, is arguably their most valuable player and he may be set for the peninsula. The 24-year-old has been linked with Juventus in the past and they could renew their interest in the starlet.
Rosicky’s international teammate, striker Jan Koller, is another who Italian clubs will consider purchasing. While Inter are being associated with German international stopper Christoph Metzelder who is also at the club.
Juventus move quickly to contact Dortmund's Rosicky
Tribal Football
Juventus have already moved for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Tomas Rosicky. Dortmund have announced they're on the brink of bankruptcy and must sell their big names to keep the club afloat.
BVB made the announcement this week and its understood Juve director general Luciano Moggi has already contacted Rosicky's agent about a summer switch. The Czech Republic international has been a long-time target for Moggi, who he sees as a potential successor to Pavel Nedved at Juve.
Bologna set Meghni price
Football Italia
Bologna have told admirers of Mourad Meghni that he will cost £7.5m on the transfer market. The 20-year-old, dubbed the ‘new Zinedine Zidane’, has been made available by the Rossoblu after attracting the interest of some top European clubs.
But the Stadio Dall’Ara outfit insist they have no intention of allowing the French Under-21 international to leave on the cheap.
"We won’t give him away," owner Giuseppe Gazzoni Frascara stated. "He is worth £7.5m and you can be sure that he will not be sold for anything less. After all, the longer he stays with us, the higher his asking price will become for potential buyers."
Whispers suggest that the attacking midfielder is already on the wish list of Juventus and Real Madrid.
Juve legend Sivori dies
Football Italia
Former Juventus and Napoli great Enrique Omar Sivori has died in his Argentine home at the age of 69. Sivori, a major figure of Italian football in the 1950s and 1960s, was suffering with a tumour of the pancreas.
The attacking talent was born in San Nicolas on October 2, 1935, and went on to make his debut in Argentina’s top-flight at the age of just 19 for River Plate.
The South American scored 56 goals in two seasons with the outfit, which led to a switch to Juventus in 1957 – allowing River to rebuild their stadium with the £60,000 fee received.
Sivori - famous for always playing with his socks rolled around his ankles - won numerous honours in Turin, winning the Scudetto in 1958, ’60 and ’61, while also lifting three Italian Cups. He was rewarded with the Golden Ball in 1961, as well as winning the Serie A Capocannoniere crown in 1960 thanks to his 27 goals in 31 games.
Sivori, who netted 146 times in 278 Serie A matches, ended his career at Napoli before retiring in 1968 because of a knee injury.
The player, one of the so-called ‘angels with dirty faces’, won international honours with both Argentina and Italy. Sivori made 19 appearances for the South American nation, winning the Copa America in 1955 and 57. He would also appear at the 1962 World Cup for Italy, scoring eight goals in nine caps for the Azzurri.
Sivori took to coaching once he hung up his boots, taking charge of Rosario Central, River Plate and Argentina at the 1974 World Cup in Germany.
Famous as a player for continually dribbling the ball through the legs of his opponents, he later worked as a TV pundit in Italy and also as a transfer consultant for Juventus.
"A great man and a great champion has died," said Juventus chief executive Antonio Giraudo. "It’s a massive blow, he was one of the best players Juve have ever had."
Juve Vice-president Roberto Bettega added: "He was like a big brother for me. He was a formidable player but also a great friend. Our thoughts are with his family."
Director general Luciano Moggi also paid tribute to the man. "We’ve lost a club symbol, as well as a true friend," he stated.
Antonio Iuliano, his former teammate at Napoli, explained exactly how good a player he really was. "He was the Maradona of the 60s," stated the Azzurri legend. "He was a genius, an extrovert but still a man."
