This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 29 April
Juve fail in Ibra appeal
Football Italia
Juventus will still be without Zlatan Ibrahimovic for the Milan clash after they failed in an attempt to reduce his suspension. The Swede was handed a three-match ban after TV evidence found him guilty of clashing with Ivan Cordoba, in an off-the-ball incident, during the 1-0 defeat to Inter.
Ibrahimovic already missed the Lazio win at the weekend but his club were hoping to get the rest of his suspension scrapped or cut on appeal. Today’s news comes as a massive blow for the Turin giants who are desperate for the striker, who has netted 15 League goals so far, to feature at the San Siro on May 8.
However, there is still a slim chance that he could play in the Scudetto showdown as Juve will now launch a second appeal. Meanwhile, Fiorentina have also failed in their attempt to get Dario Dainelli’s two-match ban for a similar incident altered.
Edu has Juventus option
Football Italia
Juventus are allegedly interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Edu at the end of this season. The Brazilian international is available on a free transfer in the summer and the Delle Alpi outfit are keen.
Transfer guru Luciano Moggi is always looking for ‘Bosman players’ and Edu is a realistic target. The Bianconeri are attempting to spice up their midfield options given that they have yet to find the perfect partner for Emerson.
Edu, 26, will quit the Highbury outfit once this campaign ends even if Juve will face some competition for his signature. Spanish champions Valencia seem to be in pole position for him after they almost netted the South American in January. Inter have also been associated with the central midfielder.
Juventus threat to Lazio over PSV's Vogel
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello is planning to rumble Lazio's talks with PSV Eindhoven midfielder Johann Vogel.
The Swiss international was watched by Capello against AC Milan at the San Siro on Tuesday night and the Juve trainer immediately urged his director general Luciano Moggi to sound out Vogel's agent about a possible move to Turin.
The midfielder's agent was, indeed, in Italy on Tuesday for talks with Lazio director general Gabriele Martino. Negotiations went well, with Martino quietly confident they will seal a Bosman deal for Vogel in the coming weeks.
However, Juve's interest is sure to turn the Swiss' head. Moggi has made no secret of Juve's intention of working in the Bosman market over the summer and Vogel's availability fits perfectly into his plans.
Juve unveil Japan tour
Sky Sports
Serie A giants Juventus have officially unveiled their summer tour to Japan. The pre-season sortie will take place from May 30 until June 8 and will take in friendly games against Yokohama F-Marinos and FC Tokyo. Both games will take place in the Japanese capital and will fetch The Bianconeri an impressive €1 million per match.
Juve coach Fabio Capello has already laid out that the squad that travels to the Asian nation will not include those internationals with World Cup qualifiers, or the youth team who will be otherwise engaged in their league finals. The last time the Turin outfit visited Japan was when they triumphed over River Plate in the 1996 Intercontinental Cup.
Arsenal kick Real Madrid into action over Gilardino
Tribal Football
Real Madrid general manager Arrigo Sacchi is pressing president Florentino Perez to bid for Parma striker Alberto Gilardino at the end of the season. Sacchi is convinced Gilardino is on the verge of becoming a major world star and despite his 22 years would comfortably fit into Real's team structure.
The Parma striker has already agreed terms with AC Milan for next season, but his stunning form has pushed up his price-tag from £15 million to now £18 million. Milan have baulked at paying the fee, which has opened the door to interested rivals, including Arsenal.
Sacchi, who was Parma football director before moving to Real, is still in contact with his former club and is aware that Arsenal have the financial backing to match Parma's valuation. The Italian has told Perez there is no time to lose and is urging his president to make official Real Madrid's interest in Gilardino.
Atletico Madrid prepare bid for Valencia stars Aimar, Di Vaio
Tribal Football
Atletico Madrid are chasing Valencia pair Pablo Aimar and Marco Di Vaio. Both players are considering their futures at the Mestalla after recent bust-ups with management and are in the sights of Atletico sports director Toni Munoz.
Argentina international midfielder Aimar is angry over the way his attitude has come into question after pulling out of last week's 0-0 with Real Mallorca, citing injury. The decision led to Valencia's board seriously discussing selling the playmaker and his future is now in doubt.
Meanwhile, Di Vaio fell out with coach Antonio Lopez last week after throwing a tantrum over being substituted against Mallorca. He was banned from training with the rest of the squad for four days. Like Aimar, Di Vaio is now considering his future and admitted this week he'd like to play for Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini next season.
Munoz knows both players are unsettled and is planning to fund a major double bid by the cash raised from Atletico's decision to put 16 of their first team squad up for sale at the end of the season.
Thursday 28 April
Juventus – Bologna
Football Italia
On paper this Stadio Delle Alpi clash looks about as one-sided as they come. Scudetto contender Juventus, with six wins in their last eight matches, taking on a Bologna side without a win in six games. But this Serie A season has brought about so many shocks that nothing can be taken for granted. There was little to separate the sides in this season’s previous meeting, which Juventus stole with a late Pavel Nedved strike. But for the same player grabbing a similarly late goal against Lazio last week, Juve would be lagging behind in the Scudetto hunt.
Fabio Capello remains without the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic for at least another two matches, so it was a welcome boost that Alex Del Piero quickly shook off the injury he picked up in the aforementioned Lazio clash. And he can also call upon Emerson’s services after the Brazilian sat out the Olimpico clash, with the disappointing Alessio Tacchinardi missing out.
Bologna will definitely be without the injured Stefano Torrisi after he limped out of the 0-0 draw with Fiorentina. Carlo Mazzone is likely to hand his place to the much-maligned former Juve defender Nicola Legrottaglie, who will have a point to prove against the team that so cruelly disposed of him in January.
It is also worth noting that Carlo Mazzone was Coach of the Perugia side which beat Juventus on the last day of the 1999-2000 season. That result cost the Old Lady Lo Scudetto – can Mazzone repeat the trick five years on?
Juventus: Buffon; Pessotto, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Blasi, Nedved; Zalayeta, Del Piero
Bologna: Pagliuca; Juarez, Gamberini, Legrottaglie, Sussi; Nervo, Amoroso, Colucci; Giunti, Bellucci; Tare
Ref: To folllow
Del Piero in fighting mood
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero has warned Milan that his Juventus side are ready for the Scudetto fight. Both clubs remain locked at the top of the table but the Italian insists his men are hungry for success.
"Milan are continually sending out combative messages but we are not putting down our weapons," he told his personal website. "We’ll keep working hard in each of the five ‘Cup Finals’ that remain between now and May 29."
The Rossoneri did move three points clear on Saturday night but Juve responded with a win at Lazio – despite an injury to Del Piero.
"A knock to my back forced me out of the game after just 15 minutes," continued the No 10. "But the most important thing was that we managed to win the game. That was our reward for our sacrifices in an effort to stay at the top of the table."
Players switch off TV evidence
Football Italia
The increased use of video evidence to catch off the ball clashes has been condemned by Leandro Cufre and Mauro Camoranesi, who claim it is all part of the game. “Provocation is all part of the sport,” insisted Roma defender Cufre. “Even if these are often quite tough and painful, they have always been present in football.”
Another Argentine who has made his home in Serie A agreed that video evidence is trying to ‘dampen’ the spirit of football. “It is only normal to be a bit naughty on the pitch and it has always been part of the game and there’s no need to eliminate that,” insisted Camoranesi.
Juventus Coach Fabio Capello requested that this evidence also be used to punish those who provoke and simulate contact, but his midfielder does not tow the club line.
“We should abolish TV evidence, as if there are four officials in the stadium then they should be able to spot any major incidents. Otherwise the future of players is put into the hands of television companies and opposition clubs who can seek out footage to get someone else banned.”
This last comment was a direct jibe at Milan, who Juve have indirectly blamed for finding the clip of Zlatan Ibrahimovic striking Ivan Cordoba and prompting a three-match ban. Ibrahimovic’s appeal against that decision will be heard tomorrow, so even a slight reduction would allow him to play against Milan in their May 8 clash.
Another decision is due regarding that tie, as the final five rounds of the Serie A Championship are always played at the same time to ensure no club has an advantage. However, if by the end of this weekend Inter are mathematically out of the title race, then Milan-Juventus could be moved to an evening kick-off.
Ferrara handed farewell game
Football Italia
A special farewell game has been arranged to mark the retirement of Juventus veteran Ciro Ferrara. The 38-year-old will hang up his boots in the summer but not before a June 9 ‘testimonial’ in his hometown of Napoli. A host of Ferrara’s past and present teammates will feature at the Stadio San Paolo to celebrate his awesome career.
The former Italian international started his playing days at Napoli in 1984 and won two Scudetti and a UEFA Cup with the Azzurri. He moved to Juventus in 1994 as a result of the club’s financial problems and continued to win just about everything on offer with the Bianconeri. The defender will remain in football next season though, as he has already been handed a new role at Juve.
Juve win doping appeal
Football Italia
The international Tribunal of Sport has ruled that Juventus cannot have their trophies taken away after the doping trial. The CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) asked for advice from the Lausanne tribunal and was told this evening that the Bianconeri are not culpable on a sporting level.
“The use of pharmaceutical substances that are not expressly banned by sporting law and that are not similar to illegal substances cannot be punished by disciplinary action,” read the verdict.
This means that Juventus did not contravene the anti-doping laws and therefore cannot have their trophies taken away, nor be docked points in the current campaign. There were fears that once the Turin trial found chief of medical staff Riccardo Agricola guilty of administering excessive pharmaceutical substances, the titles won between 1994 and ’98 would be confiscated.
The TAS verdict is not legally binding, but it is highly unlikely that the Italian authorities will now seek to take such drastic steps.
Meanwhile, the doping issue is set to be raised again on Thursday evening, as a RAI Due programme plans to show six-year-old footage of a Parma defender receiving treatment via an injection.
The player – currently unnamed, but reportedly an international – is heard discussing the substance Neoton with members of the club staff ahead of a European Final. It is a medicine usually given to patients suffering from cardiac problems.
Juventus chiefs insist Tamoil deal is secure
Tribal Football
Juventus directors have dismissed comments made by Saadi Gheddafi that their mega sponsorship deal with Tamoil is in doubt. Gheddafi claimed that opposition inside the Libyan government is threatening the agreement, worth £180 million over ten years to Juve.
But Juve chief Antonio Giraudo said: "We do not have any comment to make on the declarations of Saadi Gheddafi. The club is satisfied with its relationship with Oilinvest and the agreement we made with them some weeks ago about the company they control, Tamoil.
"Juventus have a strong and stable relationship for many years with Oilinvest and the contract signed in March is totally binding."
Juventus aim to trump Valencia for Arsenal's Edu
Tribal Football
Juventus chief Luciano Moggi is attempting to rumble Valencia's hopes over the signing of Arsenal midfielder Edu. This week Moggi has made contact with Edu's representatives to sound him out about moving to Turin to partner countryman Emerson in Juve's midfield next season. Valencia have offered Edu a three-year contract, but the midfielder is yet to put pen to paper.
Barcelona Join Ledesma Race
Goal.com
The Lecce jewel has also been linked with Milan and Juventus. Argentinean midfielder, Ledesma, is the latest player to be tipped for a move to Spanish giants Barcelona at the end of the season. The Lecce player shined during this Serie A campaign and helped his side reach a mid-table position.
Barcelona are looking for a central midfielder after confirming in the past weeks that Demetrio Albertini’s contract will not be renewed. However, the Catalan based club will have to watch out from Milan and Juventus who are also after Ledesma.
Chelsea plan £8M bid for Udinese's Jankulovski
Tribal Football
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is aiming to rumble AC Milan's bid for Udinese wing-back Marek Jankulovski. The Czech Republic international has already agreed personal terms with Milan and is expected to move to the San Siro at the end of this season for around £6 million.
However, The Sun says Chelsea will look to splash £8m on Jankulovski, 27. Jankulovski played a major role in the Czech Republic's amazing charge to the semi-finals of last season's European Championships. Blues boss Jose Mourinho has made the signing of a world-class left-back his top priority after being forced to play William Gallas out of position for the past three months.
Wayne Bridge is unlikely to play again this year after breaking an ankle in the FA Cup defeat at Newcastle while stand-in left-back Celestine Babayaro was sold to the Geordies in the last transfer window. Instead, Mourinho has set his sights on Jankulovski and is convinced an £8m bid plus a £50,000-a-week contract will lure the player to Stamford Bridge in the summer.
Chelsea to launch Adriano bid
Football Italia
Chelsea are today being associated with a world record £70m swoop for Inter striker Adriano. The Corriere dello Sport newspaper claims that the Brazilian is the London club’s primary transfer objective and they are ready to make a summer bid.
Chelsea initially expressed an interest when the 23-year-old was still at Parma but the South American opted to join the Nerazzurri instead. However, they are now ready to launch a new bid by offering a host of Roman Abramovich’s millions for the star striker.
Adriano is undoubtedly a key figure at the San Siro but if the alleged £70m offer turns out to be real, then the Italian club may be tempted to sell and then re-invest that cash on the market. That money could then be used to finance moves for various players, including a replacement for Adriano.
Parma striker Alberto Gilardino could be that man given that he is likely to be sold by the Tardini outfit in the summer. Roma’s Antonio Cassano may be targeted too even if Juventus are known to be tracking the talented youngster.
Inter are also set to reinforce their defensive options over the summer and that cash injection would make proposed moves for Walter Samuel of Real Madrid and Roma’s Cristian Chivu much simpler.
Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports claim that Chelsea have agreed a fee with Juventus over left-back Gianluca Zambrotta. If the Italian international moves to Stamford Bridge, Juve will recall Giorgio Chiellini from his loan spell at Fiorentina.
Adriano snubs Chelsea for Inter Milan 'super contract'
Tribal Football
Inter Milan striker Adriano has made it known through intermediaries that he isn't interested in a summer move to Chelsea. Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich wants to bring the Brazil international to London next season and is prepared to offer a staggering £65 million.
But Virgilio says Adriano has made the London giants aware that he isn't keen on a move to England. Adriano's first option is to stay at Inter, particularly if majority shareholder Massimo Moratti stays in charge. And if he is to move, he would only leave Inter for Real Madrid.
Moratti is ready to reward Adriano for his loyalty with a 'super contract'. Talks were held over the weekend with the striker's agent, Gilmar Rinaldi, in which a new, five-year contract was put on the table. The new deal would run to 2010 and also include the option of another five years taking it through to 2015.
Those close to negotiations say Rinaldi and Adriano are excited by the proposal and an announcement could be made by May 10 when the Inter board meets to discuss new financial strategies.
Wednesday 27 April
Buffon’s recipe for success
Football Italia
Gigi Buffon believes his Juventus side have the right qualities to pip Milan to the Scudetto. Both clubs are still joint top of the table but the goalkeeper insists the Old Lady have the mental strength to collect the championship.
"You win titles with hard work and by playing with anger," said the Italian after Sunday’s impressive win at Lazio. Despite having a host of suspensions and injuries to deal with, the Bianconeri defeated the odds to collect a 1-0 win in the capital.
"It was a victory which arrived at a very difficult time of the season for us," he explained. "That made it even sweeter. "It was also a significant win because we dug deep and chased the three points until the very end."
There are just five games of the season left and Buffon is hoping that Fiorentina can do them a favour on Saturday by holding Milan. "The Rossoneri are not unbeatable and I know how hard it is to go and play in Florence," added the former Parma custodian.
"We are facing Bologna and it looks like a favourable weekend for us on paper. We are now just waiting for our big name players to return without forgetting about the traits that helped us beat Lazio such as grit, determination and concentration."
Nedved seeks Scudetto glory
Sky Sports
Pavel Nedved has admitted that he would love to score the goal that won the Scudetto for Juventus. The Czech midfielder has suffered with injuries this season but it was his late goal against Lazio on Sunday that kept Juventus level at the top of Serie A with Milan.
"I'd like scoring the goal for the title," Nedved told La Stampa. "It would be really important. I'm really keen on it. I'd like to score that goal for the team. It would be a way to apologise, due to the fact frequently I haven't been able to play as I'd have liked to."
The 32-year-old has been struggling with a knee injury that has hampered him throughout the season but Nedved will not let his injury stand in the way of success this season. "The knee is swollen like a melon, but now I don't stop," he concluded.
Del Piero: Five cup finals
Sky Sports
Alessandro Del Piero has insisted that Juventus will play each of their last five league games as cup finals as they look to overhaul Milan in Serie A. The mercurial Juve skipper believes that Juventus have what it takes to beat Milan to the Italian title - as he recovers from a back injury.
"Milan are continually sending out combative messages," Del Piero told his personal website. "We do not want to drop away in the title race. We will hold out in each of the next five cup finals we have until May 29."
Del Piero to face Bologna
Football Italia
Juventus captain Alex Del Piero is being tipped to recover from injury in time for Sunday’s match against Bologna. The Italian picked up a back injury at the weekend and was substituted just 15 minutes into the 1-0 win over Lazio.
There were concerns that the attacker could be sidelined for some weeks, thus complicating boss Fabio Capello’s attacking headache.
At this moment in time, Capello only has Marcelo Zalayeta available because of injury and suspension. Star man Zlatan Ibrahimovic is currently sidelined after he was handed a three-game stop for an off-the-ball incident in the defeat to Inter.
David Trezeguet has spent the last three weeks on the treatment table as a result of an ankle problem. However, there are some whispers that suggest that the Frenchman could start on the bench in Week 34.
Juventus will resume training on Wednesday morning after Capello gave his men two days rest following the Stadio Olimpico victory. The tactician will also be hoping that Emerson’s calf problem has improved, allowing him to return to first team action.
Juventus chief Moggi makes personal check on Szymkowiak
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi made a personal check on Trabzonspor midfielder Miroslaw Szymkowiak last weekend. Moggi was set to post scouts to track the Polish international against Galatasaray, but instead chose to jet into Istanbul himself to run his eye over the 28 year-old.
Szymkowiak didn't let him down with an impressive performance in a losing team as Trabzon went down 1-0 to their hosts. The Pole is being considered by Moggi as an ideal foil for the more attacking Emerson in the centre of Juve's midfield next season.
PSV ace Van Bommel has 3-year Barcelona deal on table
Tribal Football
PSV Eindhoven midfielder Mark van Bommel held direct talks with Barcelona last week. Barca are close to securing an agreement with the Dutchman ahead of him moving to the Nou Camp in the summer on a Bosman.
Van Bommel spoke personally with Barca officials last week following reports that Italian trio Inter, AC Milan and Juventus had all been in contact with his agent. Barca was assured that Van Bommel wants a move to Spain and only minor details need to be ironed out before the agreement is struck.
A deal is on the table for three years worth £2 million-a-season.
Tuesday 26 April
Alex worry for Juve
Sky Sports
Alessandro Del Piero could add to Juventus' striker problems as he struggles with a back injury. Fabio Capello is struggling for options up front with David Trezeguet still out injured, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been handed a three-game ban for a head-butt on Ivan Cordoba.
Juve are appealing against Ibrahimovic's ban, but they could do without an injury to Del Piero. The Italian playmaker came off during the Serie A win at Lazio after picking up a back injury in a clash with Biancocelesti stopper Sebastiano Siviglia. Del Piero is due to have scans on the problem during the week and Capello will be hoping he can be fit for Sunday's visit of Bologna.
Juve are locked in a tense tussle with Milan for the Serie A title, with the two clubs level on points with just five games to go. Capello can ill afford his attacking options to be further limited for such a crucial run-in, which sees Juve face Milan on May 8 in what could be a title decider.
Viola enter Appiah race
Sky Sports
Birmingham and Middlesbrough target Stephan Appiah has reportedly caught the eye of Fiorentina. The Juventus midfielder has finally forced his way into Fabio Capello's plans, as the Turin club look to push on for the league title.
However, the Ghanaian is expected to move in the summer, and already numbers Premiership clubs amongst his suitors. Indeed, Birmingham boss Steve Bruce has already confirmed an interest in the African ace.
Fiorentina have now apparently joined the suitors, with suggestions that the 24-year-old could be key to Giorgio Chiellini's future. Chiellini is co-owned by the two clubs, but playing at Fiorentina who are keen to make him completely their player.
However, Juve would like to bring the player to Turin and may offer Appiah as a sweetener to ensure the Viola accede to their wishes.
Juventus remember Fortunato
Football Italia
Italian giants Juventus have today remembered Andrea Fortunato on the tenth anniversary of his sad death. The 24-year-old joined the club promising to become the ‘New Antonio Cabrini’ before losing his battle against leukaemia.
"On April 25 ten years ago, we prematurely lost Andrea Fortunato," read a statement on the club’s official website. "Juventus would like to recall his great passion for sport and his exemplary honesty which marked the history of football. His human and footballing characteristics are still alive today for all current and future players."
Fortunato was also capped by Italy following his move from Genoa in the summer of 1993.
Monday 25 April
Capello calls on Juve anger
Football Italia
Fabio Capello has urged the Bianconeri to use their anger at the series of setbacks that have befallen them in order to beat Lazio tonight.
“We will take on this match with the right spirit,” said the Juventus Coach. “Lazio are not an easy customer by any means, so we have to make the most of our anger and drive. Without that, you won’t get very far.”
Juve’s three-point lead at the top of the table lasted just three days and the team is decimated for the trip to Rome. Emerson, David Trezeguet, Jonathan Zebina, Ciro Ferrara and Paolo Montero are injured, while Stephen Appiah and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are suspended.
“We will appeal against the three-match ban and I am confident of having Ibrahimovic back for the Milan game. In any case, we have done well without Zlatan in the past and will be fine now.”
As both Alessandro Birindelli and Gianluca Pessotto are struggling with muscular problems, we could see a new face in the line-up.
“I have not yet decided whether or not to field youth team player Masiello from the start,” revealed Capello. “He did well for a period against Inter and is confident of his own abilities. We will evaluate everyone’s fitness on the day and it’s a shame that Emerson’s hip problem is persistently troubling him.”
Gianluigi Buffon has not been on his usual form of late, though Capello stood by the World’s Number One goalkeeper. “Gigi is a great ‘keeper who makes very few mistakes and is his own harshest critic. It is only normal that he always feels he can do better, as he is accustomed to performing the impossible.”
Lazio 0 - 1 Juventus
Football Italia
Pavel Nedved scored a late goal against his former club Lazio to ensure Juve hold on to the top of the table alongside Milan.
Juventus knew that anything less than a victory at the Olimpico would knock them off the top of the table, as Milan had already beaten Parma 3-0 on Saturday evening. Fabio Capello had to achieve this without Emerson, David Trezeguet, Jonathan Zebina and suspended duo Stephen Appiah and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Lazio were on fine form going into the game and were able to start Fernando Couto and Angelo Peruzzi despite knocks. Surprisingly, ex-Bianconeri star Paolo Di Canio started in place of Fabio Bazzani. Juve's recent record in the Capital was not good, as they last won in 1999 and hadn't even scored here in four years.
Alessandro Del Piero was left struggling after an early knock to his back from Sebastiano Siviglia and clearly had difficulty in running it off. The home side had a promising chance on the counter-attack and Fabio Cannavaro crucially prevented Luciano Zauri's low cross reaching Tommaso Rocchi at the back post.
Del Piero went off several times for treatment, but eventually requested a substitution at the 16th minute and made way for creative midfielder Ruben Olivera, leaving just Marcelo Zalayeta upfront.
The Uruguayan almost made an immediate impact with a curling free kick that was well smothered by Peruzzi. Another Zauri cross nearly reached Di Canio in the centre as Juve were struggling to control him on that left flank.
Pavel Nedved's long-range effort was deflected wide and the local fans reserved a less than warm welcome for their former hero. Juventus finally got a shot on target after 39 minutes, when Gianluca Zambrotta set up Zalayeta on the edge of the box and Peruzzi parried the strike with his legs.
Emanuele Filippini felt he deserved a penalty when he fell under a nudge from Lilian Thuram, but the referee waved play on. There was certainly contact as they went shoulder to shoulder and Thuram may well have just been stronger.
Lazio were also forced into a substitution at half-time, as Peruzzi's ankle did not hold out and he was replaced by Fabrizio Casazza, while Fabio Bazzani replaced Di Canio. Casazza didn't have the best start, as within a couple of minutes his clearance had struck Olivera and nearly looped back into the empty net.
At the other end, Bazzani's scuffed shot from a corner kick failed to trouble Gianluigi Buffon, while Olivera wasted a free kick by ballooning over the bar when it would've been wiser to cross it into the box. Olivera's long-range effort was charged down and at the 71st minute Nedved's solo run was also blocked off by defensive bodies as Juve began to increase the pressure.
There was chaos in the Bianconeri area soon after, however, as first Cannavaro and then Buffon risked gifting a goal with poor first touches. The goalkeeper eventually managed to clear the danger by dribbling round Rocchi in his own six-yard box.
It was almost all Juve and moments later a fierce Nedved rocket struck Casazza on the chest without the 'keeper seemingly knowing much about it. The move continued and he flew to grab another long-range effort from the 2003 European Player of the Year.
The other Filippini twin - Antonio - replaced Cesar to give Lazio greater solidity in midfield as they were under serious pressure during these closing stages. The Biancocelesti were infuriated when Tacchinardi brought down Giuliano Giannichedda only for the referee to award the free kick in Juve's favour, and Massimo Oddo was booked for dissent.
A spectacular Bazzani volley was deflected just past the target and from the resulting corner kick the ex-Sampdoria striker had a header ricochet wide. Fabio Capello surprisingly chose to replace tired substitute Olivera with Olivier Kapo for the last seven minutes of the game.
The deadlock was eventually broken at the 85th and it was former Lazio star Pavel Nedved. He had to dribble round his marker and lift his shot over the heads of the defenders and Casazza to score a wonderful and determined solo effort.
It certainly wasn't over yet, as Buffon flew to fingertip a curling Oddo free kick round the upright in a match-winning save. Lazio were pouring forward in waves and Fernando Couto scuffed his shot, but surprisingly just one minute of injury time was awarded and Juve emerge with the victory.
Lazio: Peruzzi (Casazza 46); Oddo, Siviglia, Couto, Zauri; E Filippini, Giannichedda, Dabo, Cesar (A Filippini 76); Di Canio (Bazzani 46), Rocchi
Juventus: Buffon; Pessotto, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Tacchniardi, Blasi, Nedved; Zalayeta, Del Piero (Olivera 16) (Kapo 83)
Ref: Trefoloni
Capello: “Bravo!”
Juventus.com
Fabio Capello is satisfied with the win at the Olimpico and with how they achieved it, and the team deserved the coach’s praises: “We played an excellent match against an opponent who ran a lot in the first half and paid the price for that in the second half.
"We showed our character, determination and unity. We were missing plenty of players, before the match I told the players who were going on the pitch that we’re a top team and they played with determination and humility. Everybody showed how much they try hard to win until the very end of the match.
"Buffon was great, although he gave me the shivers when he dribbled a striker once too many times but he caught up with that when he made an excellent clearance who saved the match in the last few minutes”.
Capello: We'll never give in
Football Italia
Fabio Capello and Pavel Nedved have praised the Bianconeri’s determination and spirit as their Scudetto challenge continues apace.
“We showed great character, determination and unity, so that bodes well for the future. We were missing plenty of important players, but the lads proved they can do without them,” said the Coach after Juve’s 1-0 win at Lazio.
This is their first win at the Olimpico for six years and was achieved without Emerson, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Trezeguet and for the most part Alessandro Del Piero.
“Ruben Olivera can play as a support striker, so I told him to go deep and help out the midfield. We played very well against a team that kept an incredible tempo in the first half and paid the price for that exertion after the break.”
Once again, Juve stepped up the pressure in the second period and earned a late winner at the end of a determined performance.
“This season we have a tendency to step up a gear in the second half and I really admired the spirit of the side tonight. Some Coaches prefer to use one striker upfront and we showed that if everyone works hard then it is possible to work this way,” added Capello.
Juve and Milan remain locked together at the top of the Serie A table and this battle is set to go down to the wire. “We will challenge for the Scudetto until the last day of the season and that is now beyond doubt. Our character and spirit is second to none and we won’t give in – ever.”
Goalscorer Pavel Nedved was facing a very familiar foe, as he started his Serie A career at the Olimpico with Lazio.
“Del Piero got injured as well, so we had to stick together and I’m happy Juve proved their character tonight,” said the Czech. “We were shaken by his absence, as we were already patched up as it was, but we reacted and were able to play as a team.”
Nedved’s goal was a splendid individual effort that saw him strike his shot into the roof of the net from an acute angle.
“When I trapped the ball it was running away from me and I knew there were players on the line, so I tried to lift it to avoid a clearance. We controlled the tempo and just couldn’t create clear-cut chances, but with a few long-range strikes you can try to break down a team that is defending resolutely.”
The 2003 Ballon d’Or winner was also looking ahead to the San Siro showdown against the Rossoneri next month. “This is a crucial victory and the pressure was on us as we knew Milan had won. Every game can be decisive and it’ll be a fantastic duel on May 8.”
Lazio were livid after Lilian Thuram’s shoulder charge on Emanuele Filippini was not punished with a penalty on the stroke of half-time.
“Thuram had no intention of getting the ball and clearly went straight for the man,” slammed Coach Giuseppe Papadopulo. “Had Filippini kept going then he would’ve been clear on goal with only Buffon to beat. It was a clear penalty, there’s no two ways about it, and at that stage the game could’ve turned out very differently.”
Nonetheless, he was relatively satisfied with the overall performance from the Biancocelesti and admits they crumbled on a physical level. “We couldn’t maintain the tempo we had in the first half, but we didn’t suffer too much and were only beaten by a great goal from Nedved. There are regrets, as our performance deserved a better result.”
Ibra Profile: The New (and only?) King Of Juve
Goal.com
They say the cream always rises to the top.
Evidence of the explosive natural ability of this Bosnian-Swedish forward has been delightfully palpable this season. For his technical ability to be matched by on-field productivity is a reality many experts and fans are digesting with pleasant surprise.
The delicious skills and outstanding solo performances of Zlatan Ibrahimovic (known as ‘Ibra’ on the football-crazy peninsula) are a shining light amid some dark times of suffocating constriction, deep in the bowels of a withered Old Lady.
I remember the first time I watched Ibra on a live broadcast from the Stadio Delle Alpi. What is now a relatively innocuous incident occurred that day that stuck in the memory - encapsulating much of the player’s style and character.
An over-hit cross fell to towering striker near the right corner flag in the opposing half. He controlled the ball instantly, shielded it easily and swept between and around three players to the very corner of the penalty area. Instead of centring or swinging in a left foot cross he glanced up briefly and fired a spinning snapshot from the outside of his right boot that bended just over the far corner of the goal frame.
It was a taste of the kind of improvisation and self-belief that was to follow. To have maintained this zest and unwavering enthusiam in a team starkly bereft of the fantasy element of football is an achievement in itself.
Juve’s season hangs in the balance after some inept performances resulted in surprising and heavily mediated defeats. The recent Lazio encounter saw another listless display that heralded unlikely victory – it may be a stay of execution for the Old Lady and her Scudetto hopes.
The two-horse race in Serie A seems to fluctuate each week, but Bianconeri backs are against the wall despite the Olimpico win. To say that Ibra’s fantastic debut term has papered over the multiplying holes in the La Vecchia Signora machine is a gross understatement. His three-match suspension could prove to be the major factor if Juve fail to secure the title. That is the mark of the man.
Some sublime performances have brought Marco Van Basten comparisons (ill-advised as they may be), and Ibra has become the undisputed main attraction at the Stadio Delle Alpi. A combination of desperate form and recurring injury has curtailed the influence of waning attacking teammates Alex Del Piero, David Trezeguet and Pavel Nedved. Indeed, we have now arrived at a point where, as a fan, the cultured conjurer formerly of Ajax is the only reason to watch Juventus play at all.
Late August saw a few raised Italian eyebrows when, on the final day of the summer transfer window, Luciano Moggi acquiesced to Fabio Capello’s wishes and rubber-stamped a bid in the region of fifteen million euros for the coveted Eredivise starlet.
Italian fans had recently sipped a emotional psychological cocktail of admiration and grief when Ibra pulled off that delightful aerial back heel, against Italy, in Euro 2004. Looping over the clamouring defence, between the cross bar and Christian Vieri’s head, and finally nestling into the Azzurri net. The equalising goal proved crucial to the eventual elimination of Giovanni Trapattoni’s side at the tournament’s embryonic group stage.
The subsequent spending spree was surprising for a number of reasons. As a sporting institution, Juventus are the most unyielding and calculating in the modern game – especially when it comes to parting with the green. The Bianconeri rarely gamble. Huge foreign signings from outside Serie A are a rare, nay freak occurrence (Trezeguet, Darko Kovacevic and Thierry Henry were exceptions).
When the financial bottom dramatically fell out from the increasingly ostentatious football world a few summers ago, Juve were well placed to comfortably adapt to the enforced economic austerity. Recruiting Ibra for such a sizeable fee was significantly more than a calculated risk. His average seasonal goal tally for the Dutch Eredivisie’s biggest club, Ajax Amsterdam, barely broke into double figures.
The received wisdom among pundits was that this talented but temperamental lad was not a natural finisher, and that his top-drawer build-up play often brought no end product.
His summer stardom turned heads and extinguished many myths. In truth, his overall ability should never have been in any doubt. Sure, he was/is raw but there is so much to nurture and cultivate. Ibra’s choice of a move to the Orange ArenA proved an ideal stage to hone his considerable talents.
Capello had been close to signing him from the Swedish league when in charge at Roma. No doubt the ex-Milan and Real tactician is happy he waited. Back then who knows where the hot-headed youngster would have found the space to flourish amid feverish squad competition, in a league teeming with canny defenders so adept at physically and psychologically submerging attacking flair.
Yet this year he has surprised many in adapting to the rigours of Serie A superbly, and so quickly – already out-scoring any of his yearly Eredivise tallies. The situation is quite ironic. One shudders to think what state the ultra professional organisation of Juventus FC would be in if they had chosen not to take the expensive, last minute risk of capturing Ibra in the final hours of the transfer window - it is not as if he resided at the top of many clubs wish lists.
The player still has his faults in front of goal of course – see the missed second-leg opportunity against Liverpool as an all-encompassing reference. These are the chances he spurns, those that he must learn to tuck away. But the superb hat trick (though admittedly against a defensively poor Lecce side) showcased his outstanding variety of qualities - Ibra is capable of scoring the most difficult of goals.
He has the strength, touch, turn of pace, confidence and dribbling skills to negotiate the blindest of alleys and the heftiest of roadblocks. The more he nets the more confident he will become and the sharper in front of goal he will be – he has everything else a professional player could wish for. It’s clearly bad news for the rest of Serie A.
Fabio Capello, in utilising some bygone stereotypes, presented perhaps the best analysis of the Bianconeri's crown jewel. He recently proclaimed that Ibra married all the flair and technical prowess of a Slavic footballer with the drive, will to win and positive ambition of the Nordic equivalent. The mixture has proved as potent as it is entertaining.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is set to become the new idol of Juventus, a superstar for the present and future, who offers what all fans crave and gleefully receive when it is exhibited – something a little different.
John Rowlands
Juventus scout Trabzonspor duo
Tribal Football
Juventus had a scout in the stands for the weekend's big Turkish clash between Galatasaray and Trabzonspor. Juve director general Luciano Moggi posted a scout to Istanbul to watch Trabzon's Poland international Miroslav Szymkowiak and also his midfield partner, Gokdeniz Karadenix.
River Plate's Salas opens door to Lazio return
Tribal Football
Juventus striker Marcelo Salas says he would love to return to former club Lazio. The Chile international is currently on-loan at River Plate and is expected to be sold by Juve at the end of this season.
"Returning to Europe isn't on the agenda," said Salas. "But to wear the Lazio shirt again would be a dream. At River Plate I am very happy and the fans have received me with great affection. But I also cannot forget the singing from the fans at the Olimpico."
Sunday 24 April
Lazio v Juventus: Preview
ESPN Soccernet
Juventus have suffered a major setback to their Scudetto hopes with the news top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic will miss the next three games through suspension.
Ibrahimovic's fracas with Ivan Cordoba during Wednesday's 1-0 defeat against Internazionale may have gone unnoticed by the referee and many observers. But it was caught by the TV cameras which has prompted the Italian Football Federation to hand out the punishment.
"Certainly, I would like to find out the source of the TV images," said Juve's general director Luciano Moggi. "It's a pity that no one else noticed the incident but I have to applaud those that did see it."
Moggi's dismay is understandable. Ibrahimovic has proved a key player for the Bianconeri this season, with the Swedish striker having netted 15 league goals so far. With six games left to play, and with AC Milan and Juve sharing the Serie A lead, Ibrahimovic's punishment could not have come at a worst time.
Juve need to pick themselves up following their midweek slip against Inter, which allowed AC Milan to join them at the top of the standings level on 70 points. Not only will Ibrahimovic miss Sunday's clash at Lazio and the following game against Bologna, but more importantly, the crunch encounter against Milan on May 8 that could well decide the Scudetto.
"The suspension couldn't have come at a worse time with the game against Milan coming up," said an incredulous Moggi. "This punishment is like thunder in a clear sky, we really didn't expect it. No other television cameras picked up that incident and none of the newspapers mentioned it in their report.
"We will appeal."
As Juve lawyers start to work on the possibility of getting a reduction on Ibrahimovic's ban, boss Fabio Capello must find an alternative in view of Sunday's game at the Stadio Olimpico.
With French striker David Trezeguet still out of action with an ankle injury, it will be down to captain Alessandro Del Piero and Marcelo Zalayeta to provide the answers in attack. But Del Piero's recent performances against Lecce and Inter have failed to convince Capello, who may opt for a change in formation instead.
Had the same situation happened to rivals Lazio, they would not be in a state of panic for the simple reason that they have had 16 different scorers this campaign, a record in Serie A. The latest was defender Sebastian Siviglia, whose last-minute header against Cagliari on Wednesday gave the Romans an important point which allowed them to defend their current seventh position.
Following a difficult spell at the start of the year, Giuseppe Papadopulo's men are looking at the bright side of life having taken 18 points in the last 11 games and proving to city rivals Roma, who are two points behind them, that he who laughs last laughs loudest.
But the Biancoceleste know that they must maintain their top form if they wish to beat Juve.
"A Juve without Ibrahimovic could be an advantage," admitted Papadopulo. "The Bianconeri remain a strong team, who cannot afford to lose but this could be the game that sees us turn around what has been a negative campaign to a positive one."
Although the UEFA Cup is still a long way away with Lazio seven points adrift from sixth-placed Palermo, the Romans are not ready to give up just yet. "There are six games left to play and anything can happen," admitted the Biancoceleste coach. "One thing is certain, we will fight until the end."
Lazio will play with Fabio Bazzani and Tommaso Rocchi in attack, while Juve midfielders Alessio Tacchinardi and Manuele Blasi will replace the suspended Stephen Appiah and the injured Emerson.
Juve: Ban Inter stars, not Ibra
Football Italia
Juventus have launched their appeal against Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s ban with claims that Ivan Cordoba and Sinisa Mihajlovic were the real guilty parties. “The three-match ban is an injustice,” slammed Fabio Capello. “Video evidence should also be used against those who simulate injury or contact. I am confident our appeal will be successful.”
Ibrahimovic was handed a two-match ban – extended to three because he was set to be suspended for a yellow card anyway – after he was caught on camera striking Cordoba in an off the ball incident during Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat to Inter.
“You all saw Alessandro Del Piero when he was punched by Leandro Cufre last month and he stood his ground,” continued Capello. “Cordoba fell clutching his face in simulation of a serious injury. This behaviour should also be punished and was clearly unsporting conduct.”
Ibrahimovic is not entirely new to off the ball incidents and was fortunate not to be dismissed earlier in the same game for a head butt on Sinisa Mihajlovic, but Juve again pointed the finger at the Inter players.
“I have always told Zlatan not to react, especially as in Holland he had insulted several referees,” revealed his agent Mino Raiola. “I am not here to defend him, although I am sure he will mature through this experience. It is nonetheless true that Zlatan was subject to an incredible amount of provocation by the Inter players and especially Mihajlovic, who hurled racist and personal insults at him in Serbo-Croat throughout the match.”
Although Ibrahimovic is a Swedish international, his family is originally Bosnian with both Catholic and Muslim elements, while Mihajlovic is Serbian.
Juve’s lawyers could call in Serb-speaking lip-readers to view the video tapes and judge whether or not Ibrahimovic was subject to extreme provocation, although that would not explain why he struck out at Colombian Ivan Cordoba.
Meanwhile, Capello has other problems to contend with, as Emerson, Ciro Ferrara, Paolo Montero, David Trezeguet, Jonathan Zebina and suspended duo Ibrahimovic and Stephen Appiah have not even made the trip to Rome for Sunday’s match with Lazio. Five youth team players are making up the numbers.
Juventus squad: 1 Buffon, 3 Tacchinardi, 7 Pessotto, 10 Del Piero, 11 Nedved, 12 Chimenti, 15 Birindelli, 16 Camoranesi, 19 Zambrotta, 20 Blasi, 21 Thuram, 22 Bonnefoi, 23 Kapo, 24 Olivera, 25 Zalayeta, 28 Cannavaro, 34 Masiello, 36 De Ceglie, 38 Paolucci, 39 Marchisio, 41 Luci
Middlesbrough begin Juventus talks over Tudor
Tribal Football
Middlesbrough are favourites to land Juventus defender Igor Tudor at the end of this season. The Croatia international is currently on-loan at Siena and was watched by Boro boss Steve McClaren last week. McClaren confirmed his scouting trip was to check on Tudor and the Evening Gazette says since then Boro chief Keith Lamb has held talks with Juve about an end-of-season deal.
Saturday 23 April
Moggi: Abolish video evidence
Football Italia
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has launched a tirade on the “biased” use of video evidence and demanded a change in the rules. The Bianconeri chief was furious after Zlatan Ibrahimovic was handed a three-match ban for striking Ivan Cordoba in an off the ball incident during Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat to Inter.
“It is right to combat violence and video evidence is necessary, but the images used should not be provided by television companies,” said Moggi in an official statement. “As far as we are concerned, the footage should come from the Federation and be handed over only when the Disciplinary Commission requests it. We cannot put the fate of the Scudetto in the hands of individual television directors.”
Ibrahimovic was caught on camera lashing out at Cordoba during the closing stages of the match and were glimpsed in a corner of the wide shot of the pitch by pay-per-view television company Sky. “Cordoba stood on his foot and Ibrahimovic pushed him away,” insisted Moggi. “It was not a violent action and nobody in the stadium even realised it had happened.”
Francesco Totti was given a five-match ban for his clash with Francesco Colonnese in Siena’s 2-0 win at Roma that same evening, while earlier this month Giallorossi player Leandro Cufre was suspended for two matches for a similar incident to that of Ibrahimovic.
“Other more serious incidents around the country weren’t even considered by the Disciplinary Commission. This is why video evidence is necessary as long as it is the same for everyone. The only way to guarantee that is to have the footage pass through the Federation first.”
There is more to this than meets the eye, as Moggi also gave another interview in which he suggested that Milan director Adriano Galliani – who is also President of the Lega Calcio, which runs the Disciplinary Commission – had a part to play.
“It really took an eagle-eyed director to spot that incident and I’d like to thank this man for the good work he has done for the community at large,” said a deeply sarcastic Moggi. “I must say I’m not remotely surprised that Ibrahimovic is suspended for the Milan game on May 8. It really is a quite remarkable coincidence, isn’t it?”
Juventus chief Moggi stunned at Ibrahimovic absence for AC Milan showdown
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi hasn't minced words over Zlatan Ibrahimovic's three-match ban handed down on Thursday. The ruling will see the big Swede miss the Serie A showdown against AC Milan and a furious Moggi declared: "They have wrecked a dream by banning Ibrahimovic from us for the game against Milan.
"But who actually saw the incident, eh? Ibrahimovic is now out of the meeting at the San Siro. It would make me cry, if it did not make me laugh so much. It's just unbelievable. Sincerely, I am worried about this case."
Zlatan suspension fury
Sky Sports
Zlatan Ibrahimovic's agent has blasted Internazionale following the suspension of the Juventus striker. The 23-year-old was cautioned in Juventus' 1-0 defeat at home to Inter, but has been handed an additional three-match suspension for a foul on Ivan Cordoba.
The Swedish star's agent Mino Raiola believes Roberto Mancini's men were gunning for Ibrahimovic.
"Zlatan is not happy," said Raiola. "They [Inter] wanted to take out Zlatan. They know he is the best player for Juventus," he claimed.
The Turin outfit have decided to appeal against the decision that would see Ibrahimovic miss crucial matches in his side's title battle with Milan. Ibrahimovic's career has been overshadowed by indiscipline on and off the field at previous clubs Ajax and Malmo.
The Swedish international has since enjoyed a successful start to his Juventus career as well as only receiving four cautions in 32 Serie A appearances.
“I’m at Juventus and here to stay”
Juventus.com
David Trezeguet denies the declarations he was attributed: “Concerning the declarations appeared on the Sun and reported by press agencies and Italian newspapers, I deny I have ever talked to the newspaper at issue and therefore that I have ever released any declaration where I affirm I want to play for Arsenal. I’m at Juventus and I want to stay at Juventus.”
Trezeguet denies Arsenal desire
Football Italia
Juventus striker David Trezeguet has dismissed reports that he wants to join Arsenal. The player was yesterday quoted as saying that he would be keen on a Highbury transfer. But the former Monaco man insists he has no plans to play alongside French colleague Thierry Henry in the Premiership.
"With regard to my declarations which appeared in The Sun newspaper and then reported by the Italian media, I deny that I spoke to the newspaper," he said. "Therefore, I did not state that I wanted to go and play for Arsenal. I am at Juventus and I want to remain with the Bianconeri."
Although the forward has today ‘committed’ his future to the Stadio Delle Alpi outfit, whispers continue to suggest that a summer exit is likely. Juventus are apparently ready to sell the 27-year-old who has rarely played this season because of injury.
Barcelona, the club he almost joined last summer, remain a possible destination even if Arsenal and Valencia could also be keen.
Chelsea seek to block Mutu debut for Juventus
Tribal Football
Chelsea are demanding Adrian Mutu be banned from playing for Juventus while their £8 million damages claim is being heard. This could mean Mutu, who signed for Juve in January, could be forced to sit out the two remaining games of the season he is actually eligible to play in.
The Romanian is serving a nine-month ban for failing a drugs test - but the suspension could be lengthened if Chelsea's demands are granted.
Udinese beat Man Utd, Juventus for Treviso kid Barreto
Tribal Football
Udinese have struck first option on Treviso striker Barreto. The 19 year-old Brazilian was being tracked by bigger clubs, including Manchester United, Juventus and Arsenal, after starring in Serie B this season. If Udinese push through a deal for Barreto, then Davide Di Michele could be allowed to move onto Palermo during the summer market.
Lippi opens door to Lucarelli
Football Italia
Livorno hitman Cristiano Lucarelli could earn an Azzurri call after Coach Marcello Lippi admitted he was tracking his progress. The Amaranto striker is one of Serie A’s top scorers with 15 goals so far this season and this week President Aldo Spinelli publicly asked why he wasn’t being selected for international duty.
“Let us leave aside suggestions on the team I should pick from club Presidents and directors,” pointed out Lippi in response. “What is important is that Lucarelli is having a great season and I am following his progress, just as I am other players. I have nothing against him and there are no obstacles to his inclusion in the Italy side.”
Lippi has concentrated on bringing talents in from the smaller clubs, such as Udinese and Palermo, to bolster the Azzurri squad since taking over from Giovanni Trapattoni.
“The fact that there are so many Italians doing well in Serie A this year is a positive trend, but I cannot call everyone up,” added the tactician. “Lucarelli just has to stay prepared and maintain this level of consistency. I can assure President Spinelli that I have no barriers up against anyone.”
It would nonetheless be a surprise to see Lucarelli play a part in the 2006 World Cup squad, as he has never received an Azzurri cap and will turn 30 years of age in October.
