Posted by Nacha
Posted on 12:46 AM
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Ranieri wanted to finish the year in the best possible way and the lads satisfied his desires. Siena were beaten with authority (2-0) at the Olimpico and this Christmas will have an even sweeter taste now. The year’s last man of the match was “Brazzo” Salihamidzic, who gave an exceptional performance, scoring the first goal and going close two other times. Trezeguet also scored, as usual, a spectacular goal in cooperation with Tiago.
On a Sunday when Inter Milan overcame the dangers of the derby, Ranieri's men kept up with the pace of the top teams, especially Roma. With this win over the team from Tuscany, the Bianconeri wrapped up the last mini-cycle of the year on a high. Ranieri's men have won four and drawn one since the mid-November break. This was the best possible way to welcome the New Year, which will start on Saturday the 12th of January with an away game at Catania.
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 11:05 PM
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On the first anniversary of Alessio Ferramosca and Riccardo Neri's deaths, Juventus chose the best way to honour the two boys. They defeated Lazio in Rome, winning away from home again at last - just like Ranieri asked on the eve of the match - and took a big leap forward in the League. With Udinese losing at Catania, the Bianconeri are temporarily in second place alongside Roma, five points behind Inter Milan.
Just like at Cagliari, the last “real” away win (not counting the derby), it was Juventus' stars that made the difference. Del Piero scored two great goals, in the same net where he'd scored one of the best goals in his career back in 1994. Trezeguet scored again and now has 12 goals in 16 League games. Buffon showed why he's the best keeper in the world once more with an absolute miracle save on Rocchi when the score was 2-1.
The match played at the Olimpico was an exciting one. Lazio seemed more motivated than depressed after being chucked out of the Champions League and played well, especially up front where Rocchi, Pandev and Mauri were always dangerous. The game was balanced at the start, with both teams missing chances, especially Chiellini and Mauri who couldn't convert from close range. After half an hour Juve went one up with Trezeguet scoring from a Salihamidzic pass. Lazio equalized before the break with Pandev heading in from a Mutarelli pass. At the break the score was 1-1.
In the second half, Juventus came on the pitch without Nedved – who'd suffered an injury to his head – but with Tiago playing very well. However, the two stars of the half were undoubtedly Zanetti and Del Piero. Two perfect passes by the midfielder gave the captain the chance to score two almost identical goals, after 48 and 70 minutes. Between the two goals, Ballotta had saved very well on Trezeguet and Buffon had been truly miraculous on Rocchi. Seconds from the end, Pandev scored the second for Lazio but it didn't change things. Juventus won away from home again in the day dedicated to Ale and Ricky's memory. Another reason to smile.
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Posted on 11:33 PM
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In the end it was up to Pavel Nedved to win the match, like in the good old days: a great right footer from just outside the penalty area and three golden points achieved against a good Atalanta side. It wasn't an easy win; Atalanta again showed they're one of the teams most on form at the moment and that they fully deserve their position in the League.It was a nervous match, with the Bianconeri having trouble getting past the opponents' defence. In the first half Ranieri's men tried to use the wings (Molinaro was excellent) and Trezeguet's headers; Coppola's most difficult save was on a Nedved free kick. At the other end, Buffon saved on Floccari.Del Piero and Marchionni came on in the second half. The Captain made his presence felt with a couple of dangerous free kicks. Juve's defence covered well and gave the guest team no chance for a counter-attack - both Legrottaglie and Chiellini were exceptional again today -, but it was hard to find space up front. The decisive moment came after 85 minutes. Nedved got the ball, moved forward a couple of paces and exploded a perfect right foot low shot which ended in the bottom corner. The shot was worth three points, allowing Juventus to maintain third place on their own, recovering two points on Roma and especially three on Fiorentina. Against Lazio and Siena they'll have the chance to finish the year in the best possible way and spend a very happy Christmas
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 9:22 PM
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90'+4 Morganti blows his whistle to end the game as both teams share the spoils in an emotional affair at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. 90'+2 Milan almost snatch a last minute equaliser but Buffon makes a great save on Inzaghi from six yards!! 90' Oh!! The ageless captain Maldini cuts inside and tries his lucky from 20 yards but his shot is over the crossbar. The fourth official indicates that there will be 4 minutes of extra time. 88' Kaka concedes a free kick as he has disappeared completely from the match in the last 15 minutes. Gattuso concedes a corner kick as he has some words for Morganti. Chiellini heads the ball back across the face of goal but Nesta clears the ball out of the danger area. 88' Yellow Card Zebina J. 86' Nocerino finds Palladino who is chopped down by Gattuso but the ensuing free kick comes to nothing. Both teams are running out of time if they plan on taking all three points from this match. 84' Pirlo wins his side a free kick as Milan push players forward. Pirlo's inswinger is cleared away and out of the danger area. The crowd is eerily quiet at the moment as if they expect the worst to happen. 82' Seedorf looks for Inzaghi but Chiellini steps in front of the pass and stops the attack dead in its tracks. Ambrosini runs at the defence and once again Chiellini makes a crunching tackle! 81' Substitution Nedved P. Palladino R. 80' Marchionne does well to find Del Piero in the penalty area who tries to skip past two Milan defenders but he loses his footing and the chance is wasted. 78' Juventus have pinned Milan back but they cannot find the decisive pass to pry open the Rossoneri's defence. This game is up for grabs as we head into the final 10 minutes of the match. 78' Substitution Oddo M. Bonera D. 76' Del Piero cannot handle a pass from fellow substitute Marchionni. Sloppy play from both teams as they take turns giving the ball away. 74' The crowd starts to urge Milan on as both teams fall back into a defensive shell. Not much action in the last little while as neither team want to make the mistake that will lead to the opening goal. 72' Ranieri introduces Del Piero into the game and we shall see if there is indeed a goal in this game. Play is halted as Zebina goes down and clutches his leg. 70' Great save by Buffon as he makes a world class stop on Inzaghi! Kaladze sent Inzaghi clear through on goal and Buffon made a wonderful save! 70' Substitution Iaquinta V. Del Piero A. 70' Substitution Salihamidzic H. Marchionni M. 68' Great skill by Kaka as he beats his marker and sends a shot that is deflected out for a throw in. Iaquinta chases Buffon's long kick and ends up fouling Oddo. The game has slowed down as both teams tighten up. 66' Great ball from Ambrosini to Inzaghi but he doesn't have the legs he used to and the chance goes begging. It's must be only a matter of time before we see either Palladino or Del Piero brought into the match. 64' Ancelotti makes the first move as he makes a double substitution that he hopes will tune the tide of the match. 63' Substitution Serginho Maldini P. 63' Substitution Gilardino A. Inzaghi F. 62' Ambrosini catches his own teammate with an elbow to the head as Gatusso receives some treatment from the medical staff. 60' Kaka gives the ball away cheaply but Pirlo rescues his teammate with his good hustle. Oh!! Trezeguet just misses a pass that was driven low across the face of goal. 58' Ambrosini and Zanetti jaw back and forth as the emotions heat up on the pitch. Chiellini crunches Kaka and is shown a yellow card for his effort. Pirlo stands over the ball from 30 yards out. Great strike by Pirlo and Buffon does well to punch the ball away. 57' Yellow Card Chiellini G. 56' Yellow Card Serginho 56' Legrottaglie takes down Kaka and concedes the free kick. Pirlo's delivery is poor and the set piece is wasted once more. Ouch! Nedved is caught by Serginho and the Czech international wins a free kick in a very dangerous position. Nedved stands over the ball and lets a shot fly that is well saved by Dida. 54' Gilardino slides to try and meet Serginho's cross but Buffon beats him to the ball as his penalty claims are waved away by Morganti. A splendid first 10 minutes of the second half! Both teams are really going for it here! 52' Legrotagglie needs to be careful as he concedes a free kick after fouling Gilardino. Pirlo's free kick is deflected out for a corner kick. Good spell by Milan! 50' Kaka wins side a free kick. Seedorf takes it short as Milan buzz around the penalty area and Buffon makes a world class save on Kaka!!The rebound was put into the net by Gilardino but he was judged to be offside! Milan come close! 48' Nedved finds Molinaro on the left flank and wins his side a corner kick. Nedved's inswinger was just missed by Legrotagglie as Juventus start the second half as the better side. Oh!!! What a save by Dida as he robs Salihamidzic from 20 yards out! His shot was labeled for the far corner but Dida made a magnificent save. The game is halted as Dida receives some treatment on his shoulder. 46' The second half is underway in Milan as both teams look for the opening goal of the game. It will be interesting to see when Ranieri decides to bring on Del Piero tonight. There is no real firepower on Ancelotti's bench except for Inzaghi as Ronaldo is injured. 45' Juventus had the best chance of the game when Trezeguet's shot hit the post but the match remains scoreless as the teams head into halftime break. 43' Seedorf is caught offside as he looks for the opening goal of the game. Serginho sends a long ball down the left flank that finds Gillardino but the attack fizzles out. 41' Pirlo finds Kaka who runs at the defence and wins a corner kick. Seedorf's corner is swung into the area as cries for a penalty echo around the Giuseppe Meazza as Nesta is taken down. 39' Oh!! Trezeguet lays the ball off to Salihamidzic whose cross is taken down by Nedved but his shot from 10 yards out is deflected out for a corner kick. 37' Legrotagglie takes Kaka down and is booked for his troubles. Pirlo takes the free kick short to Seedorf but it comes to nothing. Pirlo dials up a long distance effort that is easily save by Buffon. 35' Pirlo trips over the ball as Juventus come back the other way but Nesta makes a vital interception and the chance goes begging. Gilardino has some choice words for the the linesman as he is caught offside once again. 35' Yellow Card Legrottaglie N. 33' Nedved tries to split Nesta and Oddo and falls to the ground but the referee has none of it and waves the play on. Kaka is caught offside as he tries to sneak behind the Juventus defence. 31' Good work by Salihamidzic on the right flank as his cross is met by Iaquinta whose weak shot is saved by Dida. 29' Iaquinta tests Dida from 25 yards out but the Brazilian keeper is up to the task. Good news for Juventus fans as Trezeguet makes his way back onto the pitch. Pirlo looks for Gilardino who is caught offside. 27' The momentum has swung over in favour of Milan as they have found their passing rhythm that makes them such a dangerous team. The game is halted as Trezeguet receives some treatment from the medical staff. 25' Iaquinta flicks it on for Trezeguet who is pushed off the ball by Nesta. Seedorf skips past two defenders but his pass for Gilardino is hit with too much pace and rolls out of play. 23' Ambrosini shows his studs to Nocerino and concedes the free kick. Set pieces have been poor for both teams Nedved's delivery comes to nothing. Pirlo threads a slide rule ball to Seedorf whose low cross is blocked by Chiellini. 21' Gillardino fends off Chiellini as the ball runs out for a corner. Buffon scrambles off his line and punches the ball away. A good spell for Milan after a shaky opening 10 minutes. 19' Serginho makes another run on the left flank and finds Ambrosini who is forced backwards and lays the ball off to Kaka who wins a corner kick. Seedorf's delivery is poor and the chance is wasted. 17' Serginho runs in space on the left flank and delivers a cross that is once again snapped up by Buffon. Milan are starting to settle into the match as Oddo sends in a deep ball that is swallowed up by Buffon. 15' The game has slowed down after a frantic start and this will favour Milan who prefer to play a slow, methodical passing game. 13' Gatusso gives the ball away very cheaply and Juventus hit back on the counterattack but Nesta does well to foil the attack. Pirlo finds Seedorf on the left flank but his cross is cleared away. 11' OH!!! Trezeguet rings his shot off the base of the post!!! Milan are on the back foot and hanging on for dear life as the Bianconeri buzz around the penalty area. 9' Serginho looks for Kaka but his pass runs straight into the waiting arms of Gigi Buffon. Gattuso finds Seedorf who skips past two defenders but his cross is caught by Buffon. 7' It will be a herculean battle between Nesta and Trezeguet all night as they grapple for position. The paying public have been treated to end to end action in the early going. Salihamidzic wins his side a corner kick but it comes to nothing as Nedved's deliver is poor. 5' A lively start by both teams as Zebina has some problems clearing the ball away from the danger area. First chance of the game as Molinaro finds Iaquinta who chests down to Trezeguet whose shot is wide of the mark! 3' Nedved looks for Iuquinta but Oddo does a good job to intercept the pass. Kaka beats his marker as he sends in a low cross that Legrottaglie does extremely well to cut out. 1' The match is underway as Milan are still looking for the first victory at the Giuseppe Meazza and will have to do so without Ronaldo who is out injured. Del Piero will start on the bench once again this evening as Ranieri decides to use Iaquinta and Trezeguet upfront. 0 Welcome to Goal.com's live coverage of Serie A football. Tonight's match comes to you from the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza where AC Milan will host Juventus in one of the biggest matches of the season. It's going to be a heavyweight tilt between two of the giants in Italian football.
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 9:12 PM
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90'+3 The final whistle is blown as Juventus pick up all three points in an emphatic 5-0 victory over Palermo at the Stadio Olimpico. 90'+2 Del Piero sends Nedved in all alone and is taken down in the area and a penalty is given!! Del Piero steps up to the spot and smacks the ball into the back of the net! 5-0 Juventus. 90'+1 Penalty Goal Del Piero A. 90' Zanetti takes Amauri down as Palermo look for a consolation goal. The free kick is poor as it's hit straight to Buffon who makes an easy catch. 88' Ranieri will be extremely pleased with his team's performance as he prepares for the massive clash against AC Milan next weekend. 86' Juventus string a handful of passes together as they try and kill off the final five minutes of the match. 84' Del Piero is caught offside as he looks for the fifth goal of the evening. Simplicio wins a free kick and his delivery is drifted into the area but the referee spotted an infraction and blows the play dead. 82' Diana and Zaccardo link up but the ball runs out of play. Palermo have been out of sorts all night and their six game unbeaten streak will come to an end. 80' Juventus have sent a clear message to the rest of the Serie A stating that they harbor legitimate title aspirations and will be a tough team to beat this season. Nedved's volley is hit hard but straight at the Palermo keeper. 78' Substitution Trezeguet D. Palladino R. 77' Palermo have given up and I wouldn't want to be involved in one of their training sessions next week.. 76' Substitution Guana R. Migliaccio G. 75' Goal Marchionni M. 75' Molinaro steps on Diana and concedes a free kick in a dangerous area. The delivery is poor and Juve hit back the other way as Trezeguet finds Del Piero who finds Marchionne who slots the ball into the back of the net.. A sensational counterattack leads to Juventus' fourth goal of the game! 73' It looks as if Juventus have killed the game off as they thoroughly deserve the three goal lead they have earned. It's all Juventus right now as the Bianconeri faithful are in full voice. 72' Substitution Camoranesi M. Marchionni M. 71' Goal Del Piero A. 71' The yellow cards continue to come out fast and furious in the second half for Palermo as Nedved is chopped down by Pisano. Goal!!! Del Piero stands over the ball and curls a free kick into the corner of the net.. What a goal by Del Piero!!! 70' Yellow Card Pisano M. 68' Substitution Iaquinta V. Del Piero A. 68' Del Piero runs at the defence but Barzagli makes an important challenge. Bresciano finds some room on the left flank but is closed down by two defenders and the chance goes begging. 66' Trezeguet runs at the defence and finds Iaquinta but his pass is intercepted by Simplicio. Juventus have taken their foot off the gas pedal as they sit back and invite Palermo to try and score. 64' Some sloppy play from both teams as they take turns giving the ball away in the midfield. Molinaro sends in a low cross that fails to be met by any of his teammates. 62' Amauri takes Iaquinta down and concedes a free kick. Palermo need a goal in the next ten minutes if they harbor any thoughts of stealing a point tonight. 60' Substitution Brienza F. Bresciano M. 60' Iaquinta beats Barzagli to the byline and sends in a cross that is deflected and Agliardi has to make a diving save. The ensuing corner comes to nothing. 58' Brienza looks for Diana but he is caught offside once again. Pisano finds some space on the left flank and delivers a good cross that Amauri heads inches wide. 56' Juventus win a corner and Camoranesi's delivery is met by Iaquinta whose powerful header sails over the crossbar. 54' The game is threatening to boil over as Palermo are clearly frustrated with the scoreline and have taken to using schoolyard tactics. 54' Yellow Card Amauri C. 53' Yellow Card Nocerino A. 53' Yellow Card Simplicio F. 52' Zaccardo tests Buffon with a shot from 10 yards but the goal keeper is up to the task. Simplicio and Nocerino square up to each other and exchange pleasantries as play is halted. 50' Nedved has been all over the pitch tonight as he cuts inside but his shot is charged down by Barzagli. Nocerino fouls Brienza and concedes a free kick. 48' Juventus are knocking the ball around with supreme confidence as Trezegute sends in a curling cross that Nedved heads over the crossbar. 46' Substitution Caserta F. Cavani E. 46 The second half is underway as Palermo try to finds a way to get back into this match. Trezeguet dials up a long distance effort but his half volley is high and wide. 45' Juventus look fantastic as they take a well deserved two goal lead into the halftime break. 43' It has been a disastrous first half for Palermo as Brienza wins his side a free kick after Criscito runs him over. The ensuing free kick comes to nothing as Palermo are in danger of getting run right off the pitch. 41' Trezeguet and Nedved link up again on the right hand side. Goal!!!! Iaquinta extends Juve's lead as he gets on the end of Camoranesi's cross and flicks the ball past a helpless Agliardi. 41' Goal Iaquinta V. 39' Zaccardo wins his side a corner kick. It's taken short and the delivery is very poor and the chance is wasted. 37' Diana is caught offside as Palermo look for the equaliser. Trezeguet plays it into the area for Nedved but Agliardi beats him to the ball. 35' A brave stop by the Palermo keeper as he rushes off his line to deny Molinaro. Palermo are hanging on for dear life right now. The halftime whistle cannot come soon enough for the visitors. 33' Oh!!! Nedved almost increases the lead as his shot is headed off the line by Barzagli. The Italian international saved a sure goal! Juventus are running riot over the Palermo defence at the moment. 31' Diana looks to find an immediate equaliser but he is dispossessed and Nedved leads a counterattack with Molinaro's cross caught by Agliardi. 29' TrezeGoal!!! The Frenchman slots the ball into the back of the net from 8 yards away with a clinical finish. How he is not on the French National team is beyond me.. Juventus take a well deserved lead. 29' Goal Trezeguet D. 27' Buffon does well to snatch a cross from Diana. Molinaro makes a run and his left footed shot is deflected out for a corner kick. Oh! Legrottaglie's free header is deflected out for another corner. 25' It's one way traffic as Palermo are having trouble getting out of their own half. Zebina's low cross is blocked and he gets a second chance but he lays if off to Camoranesi whose pass is intercepted. 23' Good spell for Juventus but they don't have a goal to show for their hard work yet. Palermo are on the back foot as they soak up some pressure. 21' Casserta concedes a free kick as he smashes into Trezeguet. Great save by Agliardi as he once again denies Iaquinta!. Juve win a corner and Nedved is first to reach Camoranesi's delivery but he heads the ball wide. 19' Zebina finds a wide open Nedved in the middle of the pitch but he gives the ball away cheaply and the attack breaks down. Palermo win their first corner of the game but the delivery is poor and Camoranesi heads the ball away. 17' Simpicio finds Brienza and his cheeky back heel finds Amauri but he cannot find any space to test Buffon. Good spell by Palermo as Brienza makes a good run on the right flank but Zebina makes a nice defensive play. 15' Guana makes a crunching tackle on Nedved and the Czech international is down injured. Nedved looks like he will be able to continue as Iaquinta fouls Guana and play is halted once more. 13' Camoranesi tries a give and go with Nedved but the pass is intercepted by Guana. Palermo are content to slow the game down and play possession football. 11' Trezeguet dials up a long distance effort but his shot sails over the crossbar. Camoranesi's free kick is hoisted to the back post looking for Nedved but his delivery is too long. 9' Both teams are staring to settle in to the match as the pace slows down a little bit after a frantic start. The pitch is slippery and we shall see how that affects both sets of players. 7' Camoranesi passes to Nedved who has some space and runs at the defence but Zaccardo makes an important challenge. Simplicio nutmegs Nedved and sends in a beautiful through ball looking for Diana but it's just out of his reach. 5' Oh!! Great save by Agliardi as he makes a diving save from Iaquinta's free kick from 25 yards away. Juventus have started brightly in the early going as they look for the opening goal of the match. 3' Claudio Ranieri has decided to start Vincezo Iaquinta alongside David Trezeguet leaving Alessandro Del Piero on the bench to start the game. Fabrizio Miccoli will miss the match against his old team while Alberto Fontana took ill prior to the game. 1 We are underway at the Stadio Olimpico Grande which is one of the few grounds that the Italian authorities have allowed both sets of supporters in to watch the match. 0 Welcome to Goal.com's live coverage of Serie A football. Tonight's match comes to you from the Stadio Olimpico Grande in Torino where Juventus will host Palermo in what should be an exciting encounter. Juventus will be looking for a victory to keep pace with Inter and Roma while Palermo want all three points to stay in the top half of the table.
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 9:52 AM
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On a day that will always be remembered for the tragic death of a Lazio fan, Parma and Juventus showed the other side of football, the beautiful side. All kinds of things happened over 95 intense minutes. The final result was 2-2. Parma dominated the first half and scored with Gasbarroni (from a penalty, the 6th one against the Bianconeri this season) and Pisanu. But when Tiago and Salihamidzic came on (after Iaquinta had already entered the pitch), the match turned around. Legrottaglie scored and then Iaquinta equalized. Chiellini and Morfeo were sent off for fouling each other, and Coly got a red card too. Deep in injury time, Iaquinta had his winning goal disallowed.
In any case, a point is still a point and the match confirmed Ranieri's team's character. And now it's time for the National teams. The League restarts in two weeks' time, when
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 7:21 PM
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Ranieri relied on the old guard and the old guard repaid him. League leaders Inter Milan couldn't win at the Olimpico and had to settle for a 1-1 draw. After Inter went one up with Cruz at the end of the first half, Buffon kept the Bianconeri in the game with his saves and then Camoranesi equalized after 78 minutes, thanks to a Iaquinta pass. It's the first home draw of the season for Juventus, but this point allows them to stay in the running, still four points behind the Nerazzurri.
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 10:16 AM
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Juventus celebrated their 110th birthday a few hours early and in style. They beat Empoli at home at the Olimpico thanks to an excellent second half performance. The hero of the night was David Trezeguet, who scored another hat trick (after the one against Livorno), became current League top scorer and also reached 150 goals for Juventus. Del Piero celebrated too: the captain came on in the second half, reaching 528 games and equalling Furino in second place for all-time record of games played at Juventus. Empoli were unlucky, ending the game down to nine men, due to Balli and Volpato's injuries. Ranieri's men remain four points behind Inter Milan, the team they'll face Sunday at the Olimpico.
Having an important match so close, together with all the suspensions (Chiellini, Legrottaglie, Nocerino and Nedved were all suspended), certainly influenced Ranieri's line up choices. The Manager left Del Piero out, choosing a Trezeguet-Iaquinta forward duo. Tiago played from the kick-off and the defenders were Birindelli, Grygera, Criscito and Molinaro. For the guests, the only former Juve players to start were Piccolo and Marchisio, with Giovinco (cheered by Juve fans) and Volpato on the bench.
The Bianconeri began well, studying their opponents for the first 10 minutes and then going close after 11 minutes. Criscito was sure to score from a corner kick situation, but Balli made a great save. This was the beginning of a favourable phase for Juventus, but a couple of goalmouth pile-ups and a Birindelli free kick didn't convert into goals.
Empoli occasionally tried their luck on the counter-attack, with long balls for their only striker Saudati, but Juventus' defence controlled him easily. On the other side, former Juve player Piccolo, and Marzoratti, had their work cut out controlling Trezeguet and Iaquinta, but they were able to do so for now. The former Udinese striker tried from a free kick, but Balli was positioned well. There were no further chances in the first half.
But chances started coming thick and fast from the start of the second half. Just like at Napoli, the Bianconeri began well and a header by Trezeguet ended just high. The same happened a minute later, when Salihamidzic passed for the Frenchman to head directly into the arms of Balli.
Trezeguet was the difference between the two teams tonight and it was up to him to change the score. Palladino made a great pass toward him; David went past Balli, who brought him down, and Trezegol calmly converted the following penalty. Cagni tried the Giovinco card, on for Marianini. Ranieri replied with Del Piero taking Iaquinta's place. The Captain wrote another page in Juventus' history by equalling Furino's record of games played at the Club, behind legendary Scirea.
Del Piero's entrance proved to be the lucky charm. After 62 minutes Tiago put in a lovely free kick for Trezeguet to head home, thus proving once again to be the Tuscan team's nemesis. Cagni replaced Marianini and Vannucchi with Abate and Volpato. But this was Trezegol's night. After 70 minutes Balli parried on Tiago and the Frenchman was the quickest on the rebound to slot in.
Ranieri then replaced Palladino and Salihamidzic with Camoranesi and Marchionni. Cagni however had no substitutions left and when Balli suffered an injury, Empoli were forced down to 10 men, with Saudati in goal; or rather, to nine men, because Volpato suffered an injury too and had to leave the pitch on a stretcher. But the match was virtually over at that point and the Bianconeri had mercy of their struggling opponents. At the close of the match, Buffon saved on Giovinco. It was the last thrill. The next one is put off until Sunday, when Inter Milan will arrive for the most eagerly awaited of matches.
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 7:54 AM
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This Napoli-Juventus match will not be forgotten any time soon. Because of the result, a 3-1 victory for the home team, with all goals coming in the second half; but most of all because of the way the result came about. After Gargano quickly replied to Del Piero (scoring a goal for son Tobias), and Trezeguet hit the post, referee Bergonzi became the true star of the match, awarding two non-existent penalties to the home team, both converted by Domizzi. It's the second League defeat for Juventus, coming just before the two home games against Empoli and Inter Milan. Nocerino and Chiellini will miss Wednesday's game against the Tuscan team, due to suspension, alongside Nedved.
After meeting in Serie B last year and in friendly tournaments this summer, Juventus and Napoli were finally back facing each other where they belong: in Serie A. The San Paolo stadium was completely sold out for this match, valid for Day 9 of the League.
Claudio Ranieri, in the stands due to suspension (Damiano taking his place on the bench), surprised everyone once again with the line-up he chose: Zanetti on the bench, and Almiron playing from the start. Meanwhile, Nedved's place was taken by Palladino. The Bianconeri thus began with an unusual 3-4-1-2 formation: Grygera, Legrottaglie and Chiellini in front of Buffon in defence; Molinaro moved up to midfield, playing alongside Almiron, Nocerino and Salihamidzic; Palladino behind the two forwards, Del Piero and Trezeguet.
Napoli played with the same starting line-up that achieved the draw in Rome, including former Juventus players Zalayeta and Blasi. Driven forward by their fans, the home team began well and Buffon immediately had to stop Domizzi. Juventus took their time getting into the match, and only started creating chances after 15 minutes. Molinaro made a run on the left, put the ball in for Trezeguet and Del Piero, and in the end it was Almiron who forced a save from Iezzo. There was another great save by Napoli's keeper on a long-range shot from Trezeguet after 19 minutes.
Juventus’ three up front were finding each other easily and, following a tight one-two at the edge of the area, Salihamidzic almost found himself alone in front of goal. In defence, Grygera, Legrottaglie and Chiellini played well, closing every space. After 38 minutes the Bianconeri scored with Trezeguet, but the Frenchman was offside when he received the pass from Palladino. This was the last thrill of an exciting first half, played at full speed, but ending without goals.
The goals not scored in the first 45 minutes came in the first few minutes of the second half. Juventus’ first chance was converted by Del Piero from a Palladino pass: this was the umpteenth goal scored by the Captain at the San Paolo, a goal for little Tobias, born earlier in the week. But Napoli's reply didn't take long. First Zalayeta tried his luck, but he chipped the ball high over the bar. Then Gargano found a way through Juventus' defence and beat Buffon. After 49 minutes it was a draw again.
Juventus soon went close to going one up again. After 53 minutes, Palladino crossed from the right and Trezeguet hit a sensational post, then on the rebound Del Piero put the ball high from a favourable position. Just seconds later, another Palladino cross – from the left – and another header from 'Trezegol': Iezzo saved.
The balance was broken after 62 minutes, but only because of referee Bergonzi. Chiellini clearly intervened on the ball to stop Lavezzi, but the ref incredibly signalled a penalty, and Domizzi scored from the spot. But it didn't end here. After 69 minutes the same situation repeated itself. This time it was Zalayeta who dived when Buffon came out towards him. The referee was fooled again and awarded another penalty kick, and booked the keeper too. Domizzi converted again and the score was now 3-1.
Juventus went forward but it wasn't easy for them to react after two blows like that. Damiano made the first substitution after 75 minutes, Marchionni replacing Grygera. This was the season debut for the Rome-born midfielder after so much bad luck. A few minutes later it was Iaquinta's turn, replacing Palladino. After 87 minutes Tiago also came on for Almiron. But not much happened in the last few minutes, with the Bianconeri still shell-shocked by the two knock-out blows administered by Bergonzi. After four minutes' injury time the match ended with all the fans at the San Paolo ecstatic with joy. As for Juventus, it'll be better just to move on and concentrate on the two matches in the space of four days against Empoli and Inter Milan.
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 6:32 PM
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This is Del Piero signature week. Tuesday he put one on his contract with Juventus, renewing it until 2010. Sunday evening he put his signature with a decisive goal in the match against Genoa: a tap-in from a Nedved pass, worth three points, that allow the Bianconeri to remain alone in second place, three points behind Inter Milan. Nedved and Ranieri were sent off near the end. Next Saturday night, the away game against Napoli.
Serie A TIM 2007/08 8th round
Torino, Olimpico stadium Sunday 21st of October 2007, 8.30 pm
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With a goal by Trezeguet – his 102nd in Serie A, 147th in all competitions for Juventus -, the Bianconeri beat Torino and won the first Turin derby to be played in four years. The masterpiece after 93 minutes threw the fans in the Curva Scirea sector into raptures and earned Juve three precious points, to keep up the pressure on Inter Milan, first placed in the League. All this seven days before the difficult away game against Fiorentina.
Serie A TIM 2007/08 6ª round
Torino, Olimpico stadium Sunday 30th of September 2007, 8.30 pm
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Juventus reach the derby in the best possible way. Ficcadenti's Reggina were trounced after a game where the home team dominated as they pleased. The first half ended with no goals, thanks to Reggina’s ever-excellent keeper Campagnolo, but then Ranieri's team exploded in the second half. Legrottaglie, Salihamidzic, Trezeguet and Palladino all scored. The final result was 4-0, which meant three points more for the table, but most of all two points recovered on Roma, who couldn't win in Florence. And Sunday it's time for Torino, beaten tonight at Parma.
Three days after the draw in Rome and three before the derby, Juventus had a mid-week game to play. The Olimpico welcomed Reggina for a game that needed to be won, to keep up the pace in the League. The matches’ closeness convinced Ranieri to shuffle things around. Iaquinta didn't play due to fatigue. Del Piero, Nedved, Chiellini and newly fit Almiron joined Grygera and Olivera on the bench. On the pitch, in front of Buffon, the defence saw Birindelli play with Legrottaglie, Criscito and Molinaro; Nocerino, Zanetti, Tiago and Salihamidzic in midfield; and up front, Palladino was paired with Trezeguet, who had just been given a bonus by the Club thanks to his 100th goal in Serie A, scored on Sunday.
Juventus knew that it was important to start the match at full steam. Palladino took a free kick, and Legrottaglie's header from just a few feet forced a save from Campagnolo. Barely seconds later, Tiago made a great pass for Palladino, who couldn't reach the ball by inches. The Portuguese player wanted to leave his mark and he gave another good ball to Trezeguet, but the Frenchman was offside.
The Bianconeri kept on attacking but the half ended without a single goal. The reason for this was mostly Campagnolo, who saved on Trezeguet with his heel and then immediately after saved a long range shot by Nocerino. There was a goal after 26 minutes, but when Trezeguet converted from an excellent Nocerino-Tiago combination, he was offside - even though the position was questionable. The Frenchman was in the spotlight again after 37 minutes, when Palladino headed the ball towards him but Campagnolo made a miracle. The same happened after 41 minutes, when the Reggina keeper saved on the Frenchman after a Legrottaglie pass. The first half ended 0-0; the Bianconeri surely deserved more.
In the second half Juventus fully made up for the chances they missed in the first half within minutes of the kick off. Two corner kicks and two goals. On 48 minutes Legrottaglie was quick in front of goal and netted the opener. On the next corner kick, Campagnolo made yet another extraordinary save, and it was up to Salihamidzic to double the score.
Basically, this double whammy floored Ficcadenti's team. Reggina's forwards, almost invisible in the first half, would now have to try and achieve the impossible, but Criscito and his team mates in defence had no problems controlling them. In any case, the home team had no intention to leave the initiative in the guests’ hands. They kept looking for the third goal with Trezeguet, who almost scored. The French striker finally won his personal match with Campagnolo, netting a goal after an individual run, started by a Tiago pass.
At this point, with victory ensured, Ranieri was free to change things around. Salihamidzic and Buffon had slight physical problems and left their places to Olivera and Belardi, both players making their seasonal debut. It was a significant moment particularly for the keeper, as he’s played for Reggina for many years. The Uruguayan player tried a personal run, ending it with a shot from outside of the box, but the ball went high. Belardi saved a Cozza free kick, given due to a Zanetti foul, which earned him the first yellow card of the match. Cascione was also booked a little later. Before Celi signalled the end, Lanzaro was booked too and most importantly Juventus scored the fourth goal, Palladino crowning his excellent performance in the best possible way. It ended 4-0: the best possible way to prepare for Sunday night’s derby.
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It could've been Francesco Totti's day, as he scored two goals; but in the end the star of the day was Vincenzo Iaquinta. The forward, a summer signing from Udinese, repaid Ranieri's choice to play him from the start with an extraordinary performance: an assist for Trezeguet's opening goal - the Frenchman's 100th goal in Serie A - and a decisive header that set the final score at 2-2. Shame about Del Piero missing a penalty at the start of the second half, and most of all about Andrade having to leave the pitch injured on a stretcher. The Bianconeri are back in contention and ready to face Reggina (Wednesday night) and Torino in next Sunday's derby. Forty days after the friendly in Cesena, but most importantly one and a half years after their last official match, Roma and Juventus faced each other in the League again. In the most important match of the fourth round, Ranieri's team visited the team of the moment without any fears. The Manager surprised everyone by playing three up front: Iaquinta, Trezeguet and Del Piero. Behind them, three midfielders: Nocerino (who perfectly recovered from Monday night's accident), ex-Roma player Zanetti and Nedved. In defence, Grygera made his seasonal debut alongside first team regulars Andrade, Criscito and Chiellini. Buffon was in goal with Vanstrattan on the bench due to Belardi's injury. Almiron couldn't recover on time and wasn't even on the bench.
Juventus were showed no fear from the start. Captain Del Piero positioned himself in the middle, a few yards behind Trezeguet and Iaquinta. Nocerino started well and had a couple of good runs on the right wing. But the first chance was for the Giallorossi, when Cassetti came in from the right and forced Buffon to deflect for a corner. Juventus replied with Iaquinta, who crossed from the right, Doni did what he could and Cassetti anticipated Del Piero.
17 was not an unlucky number for Juventus as they scored after 17 minutes with the player who wears the number 17. Del Piero passed to Iaquinta, who immediately crossed, and Trezeguet's header was flawless. This was the 100th goal in Serie A for David, and the first seasonal goal scored against Roma by anyone, but most of all it meant Ranieri's team were in front. They could have increased the lead a few minutes later, when Del Piero went close from a free kick. The three up front were moving around a lot and every time they had the ball they created havoc in Roma's defence, for example after 26 minutes when Iaquinta made a run on the left wing and passed to Del Piero, who was stopped by Juan.
Roma were struggling, they lost Cassetti (Cicinho replaced him), but then they found the equalizer thanks to an individual effort by Totti. Roma's captain went past Criscito and beat Buffon with a right footer from inside the penalty area. The hosts were galvanized and after stopping a Del Piero run, they scored again. Mancini put the ball in for Aquilani, Buffon was exceptional but could do nothing against Totti's tap-in. Juventus responded immediately and Doni was outstanding on a Del Piero volley from Iaquinta’s pass. The result didn't change for the rest of the half.
Second half. Ranieri tried the same move as in Cagliari again: Legrottaglie on for Criscito. Roma began better, they had two corner kicks and Mancini didn't get to the ball just a few feet from Buffon. The biggest chance was for Juventus however. Chiellini gave a through ball to Nedved, who was brought down inside the box by Cicinho, but Del Piero's penalty kick went high over the bar. Fortunately for Juventus, one minute later Perrotta didn't add insult to injury; he put the ball high too from in front of goal and the score remained 2-1. But Ranieri was forced to change his defenders around. Andrade suffered an injury and was replaced by Birindelli, with Grygera swapping to a central position.
Buffon was in the spotlight again when he stopped a Totti free kick and saved on Mancini on the rebound. The Bianconeri replied with Del Piero again, who got a corner kick and then he passed a long ball to Iaquinta, who couldn't score because Doni desperately ran out towards him. Giuly then came on for Mancini, just when Juventus were doing all they could to equalize. Roma tried to go on the counter-attack but they were often offside.
Ranieri made his third and final substitution when he put on Palladino in place of Del Piero. Juventus never gave up, they resisted when the Giallorossi went on the counter-attack and they were finally rewarded after 88 minutes. There was one of the usual long Chiellini throw-ins and Iaquinta's header went into the net, the right reward for the man of the match. The final score remained 2-2. Ranieri's team leave Rome with a well-deserved point that gives them a boost for their next games: the Wednesday one against Reggina, and then next Sunday's derby against Torino.
ROMA-JUVENTUS 2-2 (2-1)
GOALS: Trezeguet 17 mins, Totti 30 and 36 mins, Iaquinta 88 mins
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Juventus went back on the pitch three weeks after the home debut against Livorno and two after the Cagliari victory. The League leaders were sunk by Udinese at the Olimpico, just seven days before the first match against another title favourite, next Sunday's game in Rome against the Giallorossi.
But there was no time to think about the game in the capital. First of all Juventus had Udinese to face and Ranieri played practically the same line-up as the first two victorious matches. In front of Buffon, Birindelli was back on the right after recovering from injury: alongside him in defence, Andrade, Criscito and Chiellini. Camoranesi started for the first time, playing with Zanetti, Almiron and Nedved in midfield. Del Piero and Trezeguet were the strikers. Vincenzo Iaquinta, who arrived from Udinese in the summer, stayed on the bench.
None of the players who used to play for Juventus started for the guests: Chimenti was replaced by Handanovic, while Boudinaski and Paolucci weren't even on the bench. Marino changed his formation slightly from the first two games, but he played the same three up front again: Quagliarella, Asamoah and Di Natale.
The match was balanced at the start and in the first 20 minutes the two teams were equal to each other, creating the same number of chances with several corner kicks each. Keepers Buffon and Handanovic were busy dealing mostly with crosses. Juventus were lively with Trezeguet and Del Piero, who hit the post but the ref had already stopped play. The guests responded with a few Di Natale runs on the left wing and with an Asamoah shot which went high over the bar.
23rd minute: Ranieri's team had two chances within seconds of each other. First a Chiellini left-footer was saved by Handanovic and then Nedved made a long pass towards Del Piero, who was quicker than the keeper but missed. Juventus then also had to deal with a bout of bad luck. Camoranesi hurt humself and had to leave his place to Nocerino after just 30 minutes. Del Piero started to refine his aim and was dangerous from free kicks. First the captain hit the post with a perfect curling free kick, then he forced Handanovic to parry; Chiellini rushed on the rebound and was grounded, but his complaints to the ref only earned him a yellow card. The first half ended after three minutes' injury time with a 0-0 result that Juventus felt they didn't deserve.
Second half. The same 22 players that had ended the first half came back on the pitch, but the score changed immediately, Udinese making the most of their first chance. A nice touch for Dossena was followed by his immediate cross for unmarked Di Natale, who confirmed his magic moment after the two goals in Kiev with the National team. Juventus reacted and Del Piero and Trezeguet remained busy around Handanovic. After 11 minutes Ranieri played all his aces: Trezeguet and Zanetti came off, replaced by Iaquinta and Tiago. The fresh players revitalized the team but it was Nedved who created the best chance, doing everything well, but his shot was high.
Udinese were not just busy defending, they were always ready to go on the counter-attack, like when Asamoah went on a solo run after 62 minutes and hit the post. It would prove to be the last chance for the Ghana-born player, who was replaced by Floro Flores soon after. Del Piero tried from a free kick again but the ball went over the bar. Ranieri's team's midfielders tried to lend a hand up front, especially Nocerino. The young Naples-born player collided with Handanovic and went down inside the penalty area on 75 minutes but Farina signalled for the play to go on. The referee however awarded an indirect free kick to Juventus a few minutes later: the shot hit the wall. Marino then took off Di Natale – who’d almost scored the second goal – and Dossena, replacing them with Pepe and Lukovic. Juventus understood that it just wasn't their day when a Iaquinta header was disallowed and, most of all, when Del Piero hit the woodwork again (the crossbar this time) from another free kick. The final result was 1-0 and Di Natale's goal proved to be the winner. This is Juventus' first seasonal defeat, and comes right before the away fixture at Roma, scheduled to be played in seven days’ time.
Posted by Nacha
Posted on 11:11 AM
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After winning away from home in the Italian Cup (Wednesday at Parma), Juventus had every intention to do so in the League too. The venue was Cagliari's Sant’Elia Stadium, a ground that Claudio Ranieri knows well because he had a successful stint as Manager there between the 1980's and '90's. Ranieri started with practically the same line-up as in last week's League debut, with only Zebina (who, like Zanetti, used to play for Cagliari) replacing Nocerino in defence, and Salihamidzic advancing to midfield. As for Cagliari, who were coming from two wins in three days, the Argentinean player Larrivey made his debut, playing alongside Matri, a summer signing from Rimini, in attack. Foggia, Cagliari's most feared player, was positioned wide on the right wing.
The game was immediately interesting, Conti's free kick from just outside the penalty area going wide by inches. It was also balanced, with both teams feeling each other out. The first possible chance for Juventus originated from a mistake by the home team, who messed up a free kick, allowing Nedved to start a counter-attack, but his run was ended by a foul, and nothing came of it. Larrivey was active and had two chances in one minute - around the 15th - but Buffon didn't need to intervene. Foggia remained the most dangerous player with his runs on the wing. From one of these, Matri headed the cross but the ball went high over the bar. The same situation occurred after 29 minutes and this time the header went very close.
Juventus could have been dangerous after 32 minutes when Zanetti made a long pass for Del Piero, but he didn't manage to get to the ball. Zanetti and Del Grosso then received yellow cards within two minutes of each other. Meanwhile, Ranieri's team started growing. First a Zanetti shot was deflected by the keeper for a corner kick, which originated another goalmouth incident with the home side struggling to clear. Zebina was also booked before the end of the half. It looked like nothing more would happen before the break, instead Juventus had the biggest chance of the match: Del Piero made a run, chipped the ball over keeper Fortin but Lopez recovered and forced him to shoot high. The break came with the score still 0-0 but with Juventus regretting that last missed chance.
The second half. Juventus changed line-up twice in the space of a few minutes. Criscito was replaced by Legrottaglie and just seconds later Salihamidzic suffered an injury: Camoranesi had to come on, making his seasonal debut. The new player was immediately electrifying and the next few minutes were extremely busy. Camoranesi himself had a chance with a header from bang in the middle of the box, the ball rebounded high in the air and the first player on it was Trezeguet, rapacious as always: he anticipated Fortin and slotted it in. Cagliari's reaction was impressive. Buffon was exceptional on Larrivery and a minute later the referee, Mr. Tagliavento, awarded a controversial penalty for a dubious Legrottaglie foul on Matri. Foggia converted despite Buffon's great effort: he got to the ball but was unable to keep it out.
The first fifteen minutes of the second half had offered more incidents than the whole of the first half. Juventus wanted to win but Cagliari were also very determined to fight it out. Cagliari Manager Giampaolo replaced Matri with Acquafresca. The turning point could have come on 70 minutes. Conti slipped into the box, and Chiellini stopped him, putting the ball out for a corner kick, but Mr. Tagliavento awarded another penalty to Cagliari. However, linesman Mr. Cariolato intervened, convincing the ref to change his mind. A minute later, Buffon had to come out with a true miracle to save a Bianco shot from two yards out. The keeper then repeated himself, denying Foggia. Conti was booked (like Nedved earlier on) and Ferri came on for Pisano.
But it was Juventus who struck again just after the 75th minute. Almiron crossed the ball, it seemed that Juventus had missed their chance, but Camoranesi masterfully recovered it and chipped it over Fortin for Del Piero to put into the net. The score changed immediately again, Mr. Tagliavento awarding yet another penalty for the home team; Foggia took it successfully and Zebina was sent off as well. Fortunately for Juventus, barely seconds later Del Grosso, who'd already been booked, committed a foul, got a second yellow card and had to leave the pitch too. The fans at the Sant’Elia were aware that anything could still happen and something indeed did. In the last minute of regular time, Del Piero earned a free kick, which was taken by Camoranesi who put the ball inside the box for Chiellini to head in the goal that made it 3-2. This time Juventus were able to hang on to the lead without too much hassle, earning a precious victory that allows the Bianconeri to stay top of the League for the next two weeks, due to next week's League break for the national team games. After that, they'll be at home against Udinese.
CAGLIARI-JUVENTUS 2-3 (0-0)
RETI: Trezeguet 54 mins, Foggia 56 mins (pen) and 81 mins (pen), Del Piero 77 mins, Chiellini 90 mins.
RED CARDS: Zebina 81 mins and Del Grosso 82 mins, both for double bookings YELLOW CARDS: Zanetti 33 mins, Del Grosso 36 mins, Zebina 44 mins, Nedved 62 mins, Conti 73 mins, Legrottaglie 78 mins
Posted by Nacha
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It couldn't have started any better. Juventus had an explosive start. They defeated Livorno 5-1, thanks in particular to a great finale (three goals in the last 10 minutes): a warning for everybody. Trezeguet was again the man for debuts and started with a hat trick. Iaquinta celebrated his own debut with two goals (a penalty and a lucky touch). Before Sunday's matches Ranieri's team are on their own at the top of the League, as Lazio and Torino drew the other match. Next Sunday Juventus will seek confirmation in Cagliari. But first, it's time for the Italian Cup, Wednesday at Parma.
The first "official" Juventus line-up played by Claudio Ranieri saw four defenders in front of Buffon: Salihamidzic and Chiellini on the flanks, Andrade and Criscito in central position; in midfield, Nocerino on the right, Almiron and Zanetti in the middle and Nedved on the left; and tried and tested strike partners Del Piero and Trezeguet up front. The Bianconeri started promisingly. There were immediately a couple of dangerous goalmouth incidents in Livorno's penalty area, but nothing came of them. The team tried to play the way the Manager had asked them to: ball kept on the ground, quick passes to find a free man, in order to open up a team who looked good at the back and who tried to go on the counter-attack whenever they had the chance. The first Livorno shot at goal was by Loviso, from a free kick, but Buffon saved easily. The away team's favourite tactic was a long ball for Rossini to head down towards his team mate Tavano.
Juventus created their first big chance after 26 minutes. Del Piero passed to Nedved who put Trezeguet through, with the Frenchman shooting immediately: Amelia saved with his foot. Just seconds later the keeper saved again on a scorcher from way outside by Chiellini. This was the best period for Juve and the goal finally arrived at the 28th minute: Del Piero earned a corner, took it, did a one-two with Nedved and then crossed precisely for Trezeguet to head in. 'Trezegol' thus began from where he'd left off last season against Spezia. This was his umpteenth goal against Livorno, one of his favourite 'victims' by now.
Ranieri's team were not about to sit back and, after Pasquale was booked, they went close to doubling the score with Zanetti, put through by Almiron, but his shot from the edge of the area went high by a whisker. One minute later, a Del Piero free kick and another save by Amelia, clearly the best Livorno player on the night. Before the break, Loviso was also booked by referee Mr. Gava, for protesting. At the interval the score was still 1-0 for the Bianconeri, a score that didn't really reflect all the chances Ranieri's team had created.
Second half. No substitutions and Juventus now attacking towards their fans in the Curva Scirea north sector. The first shot at goal after 7 minutes, when an Almiron left-footer went over the bar. The Argentinean repeated himself one minute later with a shot from just outside the area, comfortably saved by Amelia this time. After 8 minutes the first substitution: Tristan on for Tavano. Three minutes later, another change: Volpe, who used to play for Juventus (he won the 2006 Championship with Chiarenza's Youth Team), came on for Emanuele Filippini. Criscito and Andrade were now facing two ex-team mates in midfield.
After 15 minutes Ranieri made his first substitution too: Iaquinta, making his debut at the Comunale, took Del Piero's place. The forward duo changed but Nedved's determination never did: he always fights like a tiger. The captain had come off after playing well for an hour, and also having served the ball for Trezeguet to score. Livorno began attacking with more conviction but Buffon didn't really have to do much. A Galante header after 22 minutes went high. Rossini had a better chance a minute later, but his header was off target too.
The eagerly awaited second goal came after 26 minutes. Iaquinta did everything himself: he earned a penalty (Grandoni committed the foul on him and was booked), scored it and received a yellow card for removing his shirt in celebration. But it was all good. A goal on his debut and the score now 2-0. After that there were more substitutions: Diamanti on for Rossini, Zebina replacing Salihamidzic and, a little later, Tiago for Almiron.
At this stage it looked as if the game was virtually over, it didn't seem to promise any more excitement, but all kind of things were about to happen. First Iaquinta found the third goal, with a lucky touch on a Nedved shot from outside. One minute later, though, the player who was signed this summer from Udinese showed all his class with a great run on the counter attack after which he passed the ball to Trezeguet, the kind of chance the Frenchman just doesn't waste: 4-0. Their personal goal tally competition was still on and ended only in injury time with Trezegol the winner, when he scored following the umpteenth great run by Nocerino, whose performance was one of the best on the night. Before the final whistle, Livorno found a goal with Loviso. It ended 5-1, a result that was a little too harsh on the guests, but which meant the Bianconeri are immediately at the top of the table. And most of all it also sent out a message to everyone: Juventus are back!
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