Juventus post-match analisis 05-06 [Archive]

snakies

09-18-2005, 05:40 PM

Juventus 2 - 1 Ascoli
Del Piero pen 13, 39 (J), Cariello 32 (A)
Stadio Delle Alpi

Alessandro Del Piero proved he's back with a brace, but Ascoli gave Juventus a battle in Turin.

The Bianconeri were looking to maintain their 100 per cent record, but newly promoted Ascoli were still unbeaten after facing Milan and Lecce. Fabio Capello had to reshuffle his defence with Lilian Thuram, Alessandro Birindelli and Gianluca Pessotto injured, while the visitors had to replace the suspended Vittorio Tosto. Alessandro Del Piero returned to the starting eleven, giving Zlatan Ibrahimovic a rest.

There was more bad news for Juve, as after less than two minutes Jonathan Zebina, who was making his comeback from injury, pulled up clutching the back of his knee. The unlucky Frenchman limped off and Manuele Blasi took on the right-back role, just as he had done in the Champions League midweek.

Surprisingly, the first real scoring opportunity fell to Ascoli after six minutes, as two players left a Cariello cross and Sasa Bjelanovic blazed over from seven yards with only Christian Abbiati to beat.

Although Juve dominated possession, Ascoli were creating the best chances, as Emerson needed a late challenge to block Fini and Abbiati was called into a save on ex-Torino man Quagliarella's counter-attack.

However, the referee pointed to the spot when Pavel Nedved's cross struck Cristiano's arm just inside the area. Del Piero stepped up and rolled home a weak but effective penalty to give Juventus the lead with their first real shot on goal.

Ascoli have made a name for themselves as giant-killers and proved it again when they scored the first goal that Juventus have conceded in Serie A this season. Cariello shrugged off Patrick Vieira's challenge and saw his angled drive from the edge of the box deflected off Fabio Cannavaro to draw the visitors level.

This shook Juve out of their stasis and Cudini required a goalline clearance on Mauro German Camoranesi's looping header.

It lasted just seven minutes, as Del Piero proved he is definitely back by curling in a magnificent free kick that rose and dipped past the outstretched hand of Coppola.

Del Piero's delightful first touch on Nedved's cross set up Camoranesi, only for the Argentine to balloon over the bar from a promising position.

Ibrahimovic replaced David Trezeguet at half-time, but Del Piero continued to dominate with a header that glanced wide. Ascoli weren't about to let go and Abbiati flew to block Foggia's cross-shot, while ex-Torino hero Marco Ferrante stepped back into the Stadio Delle Alpi.

Coppola did well to punch out Nedved's strike and fingertip an Ibrahimovic free kick round the post. The Czech midfielder shook the side-netting from a promising position and Ibrahimovic somehow managed to nod wide of an open goal following Coppola's error.

Juventus: Abbiati; Zebina (Blasi 3), Kovac, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Vieira, Nedved; Del Piero, Trezeguet (Ibrahimovic 46)

Ascoli: Coppola; Comotto, Cudini, Domizzi, Del Grosso; Carriello (Foggia 52), Cristiano, Parola, Fini; Bjelanovic (Colombo 80), Quagliarella (Ferrante 52)

Ref: Tagliavento

if u think this is a good idea i would like u to sticky this thread davor

snakies

09-22-2005, 06:52 AM

Udinese 0 - 1 Juventus
Vieira 37 (J)
Stadio Friuli

A Patrick Vieira head maintained Juve's 100 per cent record and sends Udinese spiraling to their second defeat on the trot.

This was set to be an intriguing encounter between two teams challenging for the top of the table, but the events of the last 24 hours turned even more attention towards the Stadio Friuli. Hitman Vincenzo Iaquinta was sensationally frozen out of the Udinese squad for refusing to sign a new contract, despite the fact that his current deal does not expire until 2007.

Juventus hoped to maintain their 100 per cent record and were still without the injured Lilian Thuram, Alessandro Birindelli and Gianluca Pessotto, while Jonathan Zebina suffered a new setback just two minutes into his comeback at the weekend. Alessandro Del Piero netted a brace against Ascoli and did enough to earn a start instead of David Trezeguet.

Morgan De Sanctis was once on Juve's books, but he had to rush off his line after 13 minutes to close down Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Swedish international also went close with a chest and volley on Pavel Nedved's cross.

Udinese play good football and put together an excellent team move that eventually saw Jose Luis Vidigal thump a half-volley inches past the far post with his left foot.

There was tension on 27 minutes when David Di Michele tried to earn a penalty and was fiercely rebuked by Fabio Cannavaro.

Juventus eventually broke through with a fine team move and Patrick Vieira's second Serie A goal. Del Piero's cushioned header on a Manuele Blasi cross allowed the former Arsenal man to come sliding in for a splendid volley.

De Sanctis was alert to react when Ibrahimovic's long-range effort took a massive deflection, but he readjusted his position to palm it out of the top corner.

Udinese tried to take a more attacking approach in the second half with Fausto Rossini completing a trident attack. Yet it was Juve who went close with an Emerson free kick that whipped all the way across the area without getting a final touch.

Valerio Bertotto was booked for simulation after falling under pressure from Del Piero. Udinese were taking control now and Di Michele was stopped by Cannavaro at the end of a fine run before substitute Rossini drilled over the bar.

They thought they had equalised when Di Natale found a way round Christian Abbiati on the edge of the box and lobbed towards an empty net, but Robert Kovac performed a goalline clearance at the last moment.

Rossini held up the ball and Vidigal's shot was charged down for a corner kick, then from the resulting corner Abbiati was stranded and three different Udinese players failed to get the final touch.

The move continued and Abbiati proved he is still a great shot-stopper, reacting in a split second with his foot to flick Vidigal's header out of the net. It was almost a 'Scorpion' clearance in the style of Higuita.

Vieira's looping header was wide of the target on an Emerson cross, then Udinese had timid penalty appeals rejected for Barreto's connection with Cannavaro.

Udinese: De Sanctis; Bertotto, Natali, Felipe; Pinzi (Zenoni 21), Vidigal, Obodo (Rossini 46), Muntari, Candela; Di Natale, Di Michele (Barreto 78)

Juventus: Abbiati; Blasi, Kovac, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Giannichedda, Vieira, Emerson, Nedved (Camoranesi 72); Ibrahimovic, Del Piero (Zalayeta 72)

Ref: Ayroldi

davor_suker

09-22-2005, 09:23 AM

snakies

09-22-2005, 07:10 PM

abbiati was the only problem. he made a couple of stupid mistakes and if it wasnt for our defence the game would have ended tied. kovac saved a goal with a header on the line. overall our defence was only second best to our midfield.

snakies

09-27-2005, 04:18 PM

Parma 1 - 2 Juventus
Delvecchio 13 (P), Camoranesi 44 (J), Vieira 82 (J)
Stadio Tardini

Juve fought back at the Stadio Tardini with Mauro Camoranesi and Patrick Vieira to make it five wins out of five.

This used to be one of the biggest battles in Serie A, but Parma's financial difficulties have left them challenging for rather different objectives. New owner Lorenzo Sanz was in the stands to watch the Gialloblu, while Juventus aimed to maintain their 100 per cent record.

Former Parma heroes Lilian Thuram, Fabio Cannavaro and Adrian Mutu stepped into the Stadio Tardini, while Emerson, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alessandro Del Piero were rested. Daniele Bonera and Domenico Morfeo recovered from their fitness worries to start, while Fabio Cannavaro's little brother Paolo was left on the bench.

The first real scoring opportunity came after seven minutes, as both David Trezeguet and Mauro German Camoranesi were prevented from scoring by brave defensive interventions.

However, it was Parma who took a surprise lead at the 13th. Bernardo Corradi held up the ball for Marco Delvecchio's low volley from a tight angle that beat Christian Abbiati. It was Delvecchio's first goal for the Gialloblu and an important confidence booster for the veteran striker.

Camoranesi's looping header was just over, then Abbiati performed a brilliant one-handed save on Corradi, but the move had already been halted for a foul.

Juventus were unable to create any real chances and goalkeeper Cristiano Lupatelli was left relatively untroubled in the first half. If anything, Parma could've doubled their lead, as Abbiati palmed out a powerful Fabio Simplicio strike.

The Bianconeri are not to be outdone and eventually equalised with a goal out of nowhere, but one that Camoranesi will treasure as perhaps the best of his career. The Argentine gathered the ball from Patrick Vieira and unleashed a rocket from 20 metres that slotted into the top corner of the net.

Nonetheless, it was a poor overall performance and Fabio Capello introduced Emerson for Giuliano Giannichedda. It wasn't a good start to the second half, as Abbiati completely missed a Delvecchio cross and was fortunate that Mark Bresciano fired straight at the goalkeeper.

Fernando Couto replaced the injured Giuseppe Cardone for Parma. Juve went close to taking the lead soon after, as Zalayeta's taut cross-shot was inches away from both the far post and Trezeguet's outstretched foot.

Delvecchio also limped off with a knee problem, making way for youngster Andrea Pisanu. Abbiati still didn't look secure and performed a bizarre punching save on a Fabio Simplicio cross he probably could have caught.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic replaced the disappointing Zalayeta and moments later Juve had a great chance to score. Camoranesi intercepted a weak pass and Trezeguet saw his shot palmed round the post by Lupatelli.

Parma gradually fought back and Pisanu drilled inches wide of the near post. During the same move, Corradi fell in the area under pressure from Fabio Cannavaro and the two men argued over whether it was a push or a dive.

Ibrahimovic is yet to score in Serie A this season and made some elemental errors that earned the scorn of the Stadio Tardini crowd.

Trezeguet wasted another good chance on 74 minutes, as Pavel Nedved's shot was deflected into his path and Contini managed to charge down the Frenchman's follow-up.

Bresciano also suffered an injury, so Parma introduced Paolo Cannavaro to face his older brother.

The Bianconeri now had the upper hand and should've made it 2-1 with 10 minutes to go, but Camoranesi's looping header on a Gianluca Zambrotta cross shaved the far post with Lupatelli beaten.

Juve grabbed the goal moments later, as Patrick Vieira started and ended the move. The ex-Arsenal star gave Ibrahimovic the ball and ran to the far post to nod in his chipped cross. It was Vieira's third goal in five Serie A games.

Ibrahimovic's confidence was boosted by that assist and his fierce drive was well smothered by the goalkeeper.

Parma: Lupatelli; Bonera, Cardone (Couto 47), Contini, Pasquale; Bresciano (P Cannavaro 76), Grella, Simplicio, Delvecchio (Pisanu 59); Morfeo; Corradi

Juventus: Abbiati; Pessotto, Thuram, F Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Vieira, Giannichedda (Emerson 46), Mutu (Nedved 69); Trezeguet, Zalayeta (Ibrahimovic 56)

Ref: Pieri

snakies

09-28-2005, 06:46 AM

Juventus 3 - 0 Rapid Vienna
Trezeguet 27 (J), Mutu 82 (J), Ibrahimovic 85 (J)
Stadio Delle Alpi

Adrian Mutu scored his first goal in a Juve jersey and Zlatan Ibrahimovic broke his drought in a 3-0 victory over Rapid Vienna.

The Bianconeri have a 100 per cent record in Serie A after five games and were hoping to maintain that form in Europe. Patrick Vieira was suspended following his red card in the 2-1 win away to Club Brugge, so Giuliano Giannichedda made a rare start in the Bianconeri jersey. Gianluca Pessotto returned to the side and Alessandro Del Piero was left on the bench in favour of David Trezeguet and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

As expected, Juve had an aggressive start and went close with two Ibrahimovic efforts, one a snapshot just wide and the other smothered by the goalkeeper.

After 10 minutes Emerson's strike shaved the crossbar and Trezeguet nodded Pessotto's cross off target, while Akaguenduez had a promising opportunity for Rapid Vienna.

Mauro Camoranesi scored a great goal at the weekend against Parma and almost netted here as well, but his angled drive fizzed inches wide of the upright.

The pressure finally paid off after 27 minutes. Ibrahimovic started the move and Gianluca Zambrotta's cross was sidefooted home from close range by Trezeguet for his second goal in as many Champions League ties this season.

Pavel Nedved's cross rolled along the face of goal, but Camoranesi was just unable to get the final touch.

After the break, Camoranesi held up the ball for a Trezeguet volley that was charged down by Rapid Vienna defenders.

The Austrians had their first real scoring opportunity just before the hour mark, as Christian Abbiati took two touches to get substitute Lawaree's attempt under control. The new arrival was causing Juve a few problems and fired just over the bar.

Del Piero replaced Trezeguet for the final half-hour and Emerson fired over from a promising position after a chaotic move inside the area.

Rapid were fighting back in the second half and Lawaree went close, getting on the end of Hlinka's cross and slicing wide of the target with only Abbiati to beat. The move had been started by Lilian Thuram's error and Juve were increasingly under pressure.

An Ibrahimovic counter-attack was squandered by Nedved blazing over the crossbar, but the Swede should've passed it to Del Piero earlier, as he was in a much better scoring position.

Ibrahimovic is yet to score for Juventus this season and he showed why moments later. Del Piero rolled across for the ex-Ajax man and he incredibly fired straight at the goalkeeper.

Del Piero proved he is far from a has-been with a spectacular volley on 80 minutes. It was similar to the goal he famously scored against Fiorentina in his youth, Nedved chipping up a perfect cross, but Payer performed an equally stunning save to deny him.

Moments later, Abbiati was at full stretch to tip an Ivanschitz strike off target, as Juve's situation was certainly not secure.

Substitute Adrian Mutu put the final scares behind them, his angled drive getting a touch off the 'keeper, but not enough to prevent him scoring his first goal for Juventus.

Ibrahimovic made up for his earlier errors with a third for the Bianconeri - breaking his goal drought. The Swede volleyed a Nedved cross into the ground and it bounced back over the helpless Payer. Not only was it Ibrahimovic's first of the season, it was the only goal he has ever scored for Juventus in the Champions League.

ASG

09-28-2005, 01:40 PM

i live in us so all they show is one game, so i didnt see juve rapid game but i saw the goals good game i think this year juve is very strong

davor_suker

09-28-2005, 01:52 PM

i live in us so all they show is one game, so i didnt see juve rapid game but i saw the goals good game i think this year juve is very strong

Hey mate welcome to the forums, hope you stick around.

I unfortunately havent caught the game yet either.

snakies

09-28-2005, 11:33 PM

we played a good game. everyone played quite well. the only problem was mr. ball-hogger ibrahimovic, but we can forgive him since he scored

ASG

09-29-2005, 04:36 AM

i agree snakies i think if zlatan starts to pass the ball more he could be one of the best player in europe.

snakies

10-03-2005, 04:31 AM

Juventus 2 - 0 Inter
Trezeguet 22 (J), Nedved 34 (J)
Stadio Delle Alpi

Juve maintain their 100 per cent record with a 2-0 victory over Inter thanks to David Trezeguet and Pavel Nedved, though there were three injuries. The Bianconeri now go five points clear at the top of the table.

The Nerazzurri went for a decade without even scoring here from open play, but had won their last two Serie A trips to the Delle Alpi - plus August's controversial Italian Super Cup victory. Juan Sebastian Veron scored the winner in that tie, but was ruled out with flu symptoms, opening the door for David Pizarro to take the midfield reins.

Juventus had so far won all seven of their official matches this term between Serie A and the Champions League, but if Inter were to win then they would catch the Bianconeri at the top of the table.

Unfortunately, the weather was not kind to the teams or spectators, as a thunderstorm poured rain down on Turin for several hours before the match and the temperature dropped at the Stadio Delle Alpi. Alessandro Del Piero failed to start his first Derby d'Italia since 1994, while Gigi Buffon, Alessandro Birindelli, Cristiano Zanetti and Javier Zanetti were long-term injuries.

Pavel Nedved curled a free kick just wide of the near post after three minutes, but it was a tense game and many early passes went astray. Adriano had penalty appeals when he tried to dribble through three Juve defenders, but Gianluca Zambrotta's nudge was not considered to be worthy of a spot-kick.

Christian Abbiati caught a dipping Luis Figo free kick, then Zlatan Ibrahimovic rolled across the face of goal where Patrick Vieira was a little too late to tap in.

Esteban Cambiasso brought down Mauro Camoranesi on the edge of the box and Ibrahimovic's fierce resulting free kick was only parried into the path of David Trezeguet's close-range header to give Juventus the lead.

There was panic in the Bianconeri are soon after when Manuele Blasi accidentally passed straight to Dejan Stankovic, but he was able to squeeze him out wide.

Ibrahimovic just failed to turn in a Trezeguet cut-back, but earlier in the move Nedved had been elbowed in the ribs by Cambiasso in an incident not witnessed by the referee.

Vieira was booked for tripping Pizarro just outside the box and Abbiati punched away the resulting Figo free kick. At the other end, Julio Cesar rushed off his line to kick the ball away from Ibrahimovic, who had pushed his way in front of his marker.

Walter Samuel brought down Ibrahimovic and another free kick proved decisive. This time Nedved curled in a brilliant set-piece that dipped over the wall and in at the near post.

Inter fought back as Adriano and Obafemi Martins exchanged passes until Abbiati pushed the ball off the Nigerian's foot. The goalkeeper picked up a knock to his face during the brave intervention, but he was able to continue.

Materazzi was fortunate to escape with only a yellow card after a shocking challenge on Ibrahimovic that seemed to sprain his ankle. It wasn't the first incident between these two players, as the Inter defender caused an injury to the Swede during a pre-season friendly.

There was chaos on a corner kick soon after, as Julio Cesar punched away Vieira's header and the defenders eventually managed to clear. At the other end, Abbiati was again brave to close down Martins and the goalkeeper also saved a Materazzi header from a corner kick.

Ibrahimovic did not recover from that Materazzi challenge and made way for Del Piero. Nedved could've bagged a second, but mistimed his volley on a deflected Vieira cross.

Inter fought back after the restart and a Martins glancing header was just past the sliding Materazzi at the far post. Juve were forced into their second substitution of the night when Thuram's muscular problem flared up again and he was replaced by Robert Kovac.

Adriano's header was deflected wide by Fabio Cannavaro's back and the Brazilian drilled a free kick over the bar.

Fabio Capello was very unlucky, as all three of his substitutions were forced by injuries. Trezeguet limped off clutching the back of his left thigh and made way for Marcelo Zalayeta.

Roberto Mancini opted for a brave switch, introducing Alvaro Recoba for Figo for an ambitious trident attack in the final half-hour. There were more penalty appeals for a Zambrotta challenge on Martins, but Abbiati flew to palm a trademark Recoba free kick out of the top corner.

Mancio increased the attacking flair further with Julio Ricardo Cruz for Pizarro, effectively fielding four strikers simultaneously, and the former Bologna man drilled wide within minutes of entering the fray.

Juve were now pinned back into their own half and Abbiati was at full stretch to fingertip a low Martins drive round the upright. From the resulting corner kick, he smothered a Cruz header.

Del Piero's ambitious free kick was off target and Materazzi, who risked a red card with a foul on Vieira, was replaced by Ze Maria.

Abbiati was nearly beaten by his teammate, as Kovac almost scored an own goal with a wayward backpass. Cruz also drilled over in the final minute of stoppages.

Juventus: Abbiati; Blasi, Thuram (Kovac 50), Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Vieira, Nedved; Ibrahimovic (Del Piero 44), Trezeguet (Zalayeta 60)

Inter: Julio Cesar; Cordoba, Materazzi (Ze Maria 82), Samuel, Favalli; Figo (Recoba 63), Cambiasso, Pizarro (Cruz 71), Stankovic; Adriano, Martins

Ref: Paparesta

snakies

10-15-2005, 10:59 PM

Juventus 1 - 0 Messina
Del Piero 23 (J)
Stadio Delle Alpi

A splendid Alessandro Del Piero individual effort ensured Juventus beat Messina for their seventh consecutive Serie A victory.

The Bianconeri were without the injured Patrick Vieira, while Lilian Thuram and Zlatan Ibrahimovic played despite fitness problems. Del Piero was Man of the Match in Italy's 2-1 win over Moldova midweek and was given a rare start for Juve along with Adrian Mutu, who took a wide midfield role. Messina welcomed back Marco Zanchi after his doping suspension was quashed.

The home end was left empty for the opening 20 minutes, as Juve supporters were protesting against the new security measures implemented in Italian stadiums.

An Ibrahimovic header on Pavel Nedved's free kick fell into the path of Emerson, but a handling offence ruled out the opportunity to score. Ibrahmovic then set up Del Piero and goalkeeper Marco Storari was tested by the Swede's low cross-shot.

Del Piero broke away from Zoro's challenge and his shot towards the near post was deflected on to the side-netting.

The captain's Italian experience certainly boosted him, as he scored a fantastic individual goal to break the deadlock. Del Piero robbed Zoro in midfield, dribbled round a second Messina player and placed a cool finish into the far corner of the net with the inside of his right foot.

Gaetano D'Agostino and Domenico Giampa' combined several times before Massimo Donati's curling attempt was comfortably dealt with by Christian Abbiati.

Messina fought back, as Thuram was booked for bringing down Coppola and Zoro followed up a free kick by drilling over from the edge of the box.

After the break, Riccardo Zampagna was halted in a one-on-one situation with Abbiati for a debatable offside decision as he ran on to D'Agostino's through ball. At the other end, Nedved's snapshot was pushed round the post by Storari.

Ibrahimovic saw Storari off his line and attempted an ambitious strike from over 30 metres, but Messina were increasing the pressure at the Stadio Delle Alpi. Seeing the situation, Fabio Capello strengthened the midfield with the introduction of Mauro Camoranesi for Mutu.

Storari was kept on his toes moments later, parrying Nedved's long-range effort and then keeping out Ibrahimovic's follow-up with his knees before Del Piero's third attempt went out for a corner.

Messina also made a substitution, throwing on the more attacking Arturo Di Napoli for D'Agostino, but Juve's new arrival - Camoranesi - forced Storari to fly in order to palm away a screaming shot from distance.

Ibrahimovic dribbled past his marker moments later and the busy goalkeeper kept out his low finish with an outstretched foot.

Abbiati looked slightly insecure when Di Napoli's cross-shot at the near post was pushed away off his chest and he blocked another effort from the substitute. Giorgio Chiellini received his official Juventus debut when replacing Nedved, while Messina threw on two more attacking players.

Storari continued to frustrate Juve with another fine save on Camoranesi's cheeky volley with the outside of his foot.

David Trezeguet replaced goalscorer Del Piero and within a couple of minutes he had beaten the Messina 'keeper - but not the woodwork. His volley thumped the base of the far upright with Storari left helpless.

However, Messina had a fantastic chance to draw level in the final minutes. Abbiati showed quick reflexes to palm away a point-blank Muslimovic header deflected off Thuram and Di Napoli was somehow unable to get a solid touch on the loose ball from less than six yards.

Juventus: Abbiati; Pessotto, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Nedved (Chiellini 74), Giannichedda, Emerson, Mutu (Camoranesi 57); Del Piero (Trezeguet 82), Ibrahimovic

Messina: Storari; Zoro (Sculli 73), Rezaei, Zanchi, Aronica; Cristante, Coppola, Donati, Giampà; D’Agostino (Di Napoli 63); Zampagna (Muslimovic 63)

Ref: Bergonzi

snakies

10-18-2005, 09:59 PM

Bayern 2 - 1 Juventus
Deisler 32 (B), Demichelis 39 (B), Ibrahimovic 90 (J)
Allianz Arena, Munich

Juve's perfect record came to an abrupt end in Munich, as a Christian Abbiati howler helped Bayern to a 2-1 victory.

Something had to give in this match, as the joint Group A leaders aimed to protect their 100 per cent records in the competition so far. The Bianconeri were without the injured Patrick Vieira and Jonathan Zebina, but despite his fine form, Alessandro Del Piero was benched in favour of David Trezeguet and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Manuele Blasi took his new right-back role, while Giuliano Giannichedda stepped in for Vieira alongside Emerson. Bayern boss Felix Magath scored the goal for Hamburg in their shock 1-0 European Cup Final win over Juventus in 1983, but last season the Bianconeri emerged from Munich with a 1-0 victory thanks to Del Piero.

Bayern had the first opportunity in the third minute with a Santa Cruz header off target, then moments later Roy Makaay's half-volley across the face of goal was just wide of the top corner.

Christian Abbiati had his gloves stung by a fierce Michael Ballack free kick from the edge of the box and Sebastian Deisler was offside when he latched on to the loose ball.

After a very shaky initial 10 minutes, Juve slowly started to push forward and put together a fine team move. Trezeguet held up Mauro German Camoranesi's cross and Pavel Nedved blazed wide.

Lilian Thuram was booked for clattering into Santa Cruz as the ball was flicked over his head and the resulting free kick caused chaos in the Juve area. Abbiati got down to push Makaay's effort off the line, then managed to take it away from De Michelis and Zambrotta dived in to clear from Ze Roberto.

Bayern made a substitution after just 30 minutes, introducing young talent Bastian Schweinsteiger for Bixente Lizarazu.

The Germans finally broke through, but Abbiati was left red-faced by an appalling intervention. Deisler's cross-shot from the right-hand edge of the box went in off Abbiati's knee, as the goalkeeper completely misjudged the flight of the ball.

Juve fought back, but a timid Camoranesi header was comfortably held by Oliver Kahn in his first touch of the ball after 33 minutes. The Argentine-born midfielder caused more problems moments later when Martin Demichelis slid in for a crucial clearance as his cross almost reached Trezeguet in the centre.

However, the Bianconeri defence was at fault for Bayern's second as well, as they were static and allowed Demichelis a free header on a Deisler corner kick from six yards. Trezeguet and Camoranesi were supposed to be marking the midfielder, but lost their man.

Camoranesi was Juve's liveliest player and his snapshot skimmed the crossbar, but Bayern were deserving of their lead and Abbiati blocked an acrobatic Ballack effort. Trezeguet was halted for a debatable offside flag on the stroke of half-time.

Fabio Capello made two half-time changes, introducing Del Piero for Camoranesi on the right flank and Giorgio Chiellini for Blasi as full-back. It didn't make an immediate difference, as Makaay found a way past Fabio Cannavaro's challenge to bring a tricky save out of Abbiati.

Ibrahimovic had his first real attempt on 52 minutes, but the shot was well over the bar. Del Piero earned a free kick on the edge of the area and his set-piece was punched away by Kahn on the line.

Makaay volleyed Deisler's cross just past the far post, although he was offside when the assist came in. Trezeguet hit the side-netting, but Bayern continued to have the best chances with a Santa Cruz header.

In fact, substitute Chiellini's wayward clearance almost resulted in an own goal and Abbiati had to backpass furiously to clear. Adrian Mutu was Capello's final gamble, relieving a quiet Trezeguet, but the Romanian played upfront and left Del Piero in his wide role.

Abbiati scrambled on to a Schweinsteiger angled drive that had been set up by a delicate Santa Cruz assist, as Bayern did not seem to be under pressure from the Bianconeri.

Schweinsteiger performed an important defensive intervention to stop Nedved's cross reaching Emerson at the back post. From the resulting corner, Cannavaro's header went towards Ibrahimovic, who didn't have time to turn around.

Makaay's strike from the edge of the box skimmed the crossbar after another fine team move, then Abbiati used his instincts to spread his body and block another Makaay attempt from close range.

Kahn was finally forced into a difficult save on 86 minutes, as he flew to palm Emerson's rising shot from a corner kick out of the top corner.

The Group stages could be decided on goal difference, which is why Ibrahimovic's last-gasp goal could be very important indeed. A Del Piero corner kick was swept home by the Swede at the far post.

Juventus nearly snatched a shock equaliser in stoppages, but Kahn managed to beat Nedved's free kick into an area without Bianconeri players.

Bayern Munich: Kahn; Sagnol, Lucio, Ismael, Lizarazu (Schweinsteiger 30); Deisler, Demichelis, Ballack; Ze Roberto; Makaay, Santa Cruz (Scholl 88)

Juventus: Abbiati; Blasi (Chiellini 46), Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Del Piero 46), Emerson, Giannichedda, Nedved; Ibrahimovic, Trezeguet (Mutu 66)

Ref: Vassaras (Gre)

snakies

10-24-2005, 04:51 AM

Lecce 0 - 3 Juventus
Ibrahimovic 9 (J), Mutu 81 (J), Zalayeta 93 (J)
Stadio Via Del Mare

Juventus have made history with their eighth consecutive Serie A win, but lost Christian Abbiati to injury.

The Bianconeri may have lost their unbeaten record in the Champions League midweek at Bayern Munich, but they were still on track to equal the best ever start to a Serie A season, when Giovanni Trapattoni's side won their first eight games on the way to the 1985-86 Scudetto.

Gianluigi Buffon, Lilian Thuram, Jonathan Zebina and Patrick Vieira did not make the trip, while Mauro Camoranesi pulled out during the pre-match warm-up, so Fabio Capello fielded a very attacking midfield with Adrian Mutu and Pavel Nedved on the flanks. Lecce's Italian international Marco Cassetti did start despite a slight injury.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was expected to be rested for this game, but he broke the deadlock after just nine minutes with a precise angled right-foot drive that nutmegged Lorenzo Stovini.

Alessandro Del Piero's free kick was charged down, but Christian Abbiati almost gifted Lecce with an equaliser. Fortunately for the 'keeper, Cristian Ledesma somehow managed to miss an open goal.

Vincenzo Sicignano only parried Adrian Mutu's effort into the path of Ibrahimovic, who fired the follow-up over the bar.

Just before the break, Sicignano punched away a curling Del Piero set-piece.

Marcelo Zalayeta replaced Ibrahimovic at half-time and within two minutes his header on a Giorgio Chiellini cross had gone just over the bar.

Del Piero nodded Gianluca Zambrotta's cross too high to trouble Sicignano, then the Lecce goalkeeper punched out Emerson's free kick.

Zalayeta had a great opportunity to make it 2-0, but Sicignano spread his body to charge down from close range, then the Uruguayan's header was off target.

Pavel Nedved forced a save out Sicignano and Marco Cassetti almost snatched an equaliser with a missile from distance.

Juve are already without the injured Buffon due to a shoulder injury and lost Abbiati as well, bringing on Antonio Chimenti. Zalayeta's header skimmed the goal with the 'keeper already beaten.

Adrian Mutu ensured the eighth straight win was safe late on, as his right-foot effort took a decisive deflection off Pecorari and left Sicignano stranded.

Nonetheless, Lecce went very close to getting one back, as Chimenti only parried Cassetti's effort into the path of Abruzzese, who wasted a golden opportunity. Former Lecce goalkeeper Chimenti was also called into a desperate save on Cozzolino, while Mutu was kept out by Sicignano.

Zalayeta sealed up the 3-0 scoreline in stoppages with a classic counter-attack at the near post.

Lecce: Sicignano; Cassetti, Pecorari, Stovini, Abruzzese; Marianini (Valdes 75), Ledesma; Konan, Del Vecchio, Camorani (Cozzolino 36); Vucinic

Juventus: Abbiati (Chimenti 80); Chiellini, Kovac, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Nedved, Emerson, Giannichedda, Mutu; Del Piero (Camoranesi 78), Ibrahimovic (Zalayeta 46)

Ref: Racalbuto

davor_suker

10-24-2005, 08:00 AM

Great stuff....Abiatti is shit but this keeper crisis is worrying. Come back Gigi!

ASG

10-24-2005, 02:28 PM

Great stuff....Abiatti is shit but this keeper crisis is worrying. Come back Gigi!
me as well..we might loose games because of it

ASG

10-26-2005, 11:51 PM

Three golden points earned against Sampdoria and a record for football annals. Juventus, thanks to Trezeguet and Mutu goals, continue their relentless march in the championship (9 matches won out of 9 played) breaking the historical record of eight consecutive wins at the start of the season which they already held.

The match at the Delle Alpi starts with few thrills, the first of which comes on 34’ minutes when Nedved drives a great right-footed shot from outside the area, saved by Antonioli, who, however, loses the ball; Trezeguet intercepts it but the goalkeeper can finally clear. Earlier, Mutu had driven a fine shot on the turn that ended past the post (18’) and a Del Piero had beautifully crossed to Trezeguet, with the the latter being anticipated by the Blucerchiati defence (13’). On Sampdoria’s side, actions worth the note are Diana’s shot on goal saved by Chimenti (8’) and Borriello’s finish, which ended past the goalline (11’). In the last fifteen minutes, the game tempo rises and Juventus become more and more dangerous and can finally take the lead on 41’ minutes: following Nedved’s corner, Trezeguet takes advantage of a rebound and shoots it in from a very short distance (1-0). In the final minutes, Cannavaro anticipates Borriello in the box and one minute later Bonazzoli tries a volley that ends past the post.

No changes in the line-up during the break. Capello’s side, at this point in control of the game, double their score on 12’ minutes: Del Piero serves to Trezeguet, then an assist for Mutu brings him into the box and his left-footed shot beats Antonioli (2-0). Sampdoria react on 16’ and 17’ minutes, first with Diana, whose shot is deflected by Cannavaro, then with Bonazzoli, whose header follows Pisano’s cross shot but the balls ends out. On 24’ minutes, Nedved drives a powerful right-footed shot from the edge of the box but it ends high over the crossbar. Capello’s side keeps the match under control until the final whistle. Next fixture is scheduled as the early match on Saturday night against Milan at San Siro.

snakies

10-27-2005, 04:23 AM

Juventus 2 - 0 Sampdoria
Trezeguet 41 (J), Mutu 57 (J)
Stadio Delle Alpi

This Juventus side had already made history by winning its first eight games, matching the run set by the Bianconeri in 1930 and 1985, but no Serie A team had ever earned nine consecutive opening victories. Patrick Vieira, Jonathan Zebina, Alessandro Birindelli, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gianluigi Buffon were all left behind, while Christian Abbiati was out with a knee injury.

Sampdoria had to do without suspended star striker Francesco Flachi, but had Serie A's second top scorer Emiliano Bonazzoli and the knowledge they won on their last trip to Turin.

The Blucerchiati were not frightened by this test and had some promising opportunities early on, Bonazzoli turning Marco Borriello's cross just past the near post.

Juve's first real chance came after 20 minutes, as Alessandro Del Piero crossed in and Adrian Mutu's side-footed volley was just wide of the target.

The Bianconeri thought they'd taken the lead when Francesco Antonioli spilled a Pavel Nedved screamer into the path of David Trezeguet, but the goalkeeper stuck out a foot to push the ball out of danger.

Bonazzoli's header was comfortably held, but it was Juve who opened the scoring after 40 minutes. A corner kick was not cleared effectively and Trezeguet was quick to tap in from two yards, but Sampdoria will be disappointed by their defending.

The visitors fought back and Aimo Diana nodded a corner over the bar, then Bonazzoli's volley scraped the target, but Samp went extremely close to an equaliser moments later when Cristiano Zenoni sprung the offside trap and flicked the ball with the outside of his right foot, but it dribbled inches wide of the far post.

Chimenti then captured a dangerous Diana attempt, but Juventus doubled their lead with a well-worked move. Del Piero, Emerson and Trezeguet combined passes before Adrian Mutu's angled drive finished it off.

Yet it was the woodwork that saved the Turin giants from a Vitali Kutuzov looping header that thumped the crossbar. Samp threatened again with Bonazzoli's header and a volley from the former Parma striker, while Trezeguet had a goal incorrectly disallowed for Nedved's offside position.

Juventus: Chimenti; Zambrotta, Kovac, Cannavaro, Chiellini; Mutu (Balzaretti 85), Emerson, Giannichedda, Nedved; Del Piero (Zalayeta 67), Trezeguet (Camoranesi 81)

Sampdoria: Antonioli; C Zenoni (Gasbarroni 65), Castellini, Pavan, Pisano; Diana, Palombo, Volpi, Tonetto (Dalla Bona 75); Bonazzoli, Borriello (Kutuzov 54)

Ref: Dattilo

snakies

10-30-2005, 10:51 AM

Milan 3 - 1 Juventus
Seedorf 14 (M), Kaka 26 (M), Pirlo 45 (M), Trezeguet 76 (J)
Stadio Giuseppe Meazza

The title race is back on after Milan ended Juve's unbeaten run with a crushing 3-1 victory at the San Siro, cutting the gap to just two points.

The San Siro was sold out for this long-awaited title clash, as Milan hoped to get back into the title race with a seventh straight win and Juventus aimed to make history with their 10th consecutive victory. This was also a decisive tie last season, as on May 8 David Trezeguet's goal practically handed the championship to the Bianconeri.

Andriy Shevchenko was in the stands due to a heel problem that has kept him out for a week, so former Juve star Pippo Inzaghi partnered Alberto Gilardino. Alessandro Nesta returned after surgery for a ruptured tendon in his hand, while Marcos Cafu was left out in favour of the more defensively minded Jaap Stam, as Serginho was a very attacking option at left-back. Alessandro Del Piero and ex-Milan goalkeeper Christian Abbiati were left on the bench, but Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Patrick Vieira returned from injury.

Both these Coaches were facing their former clubs, as Fabio Capello won almost every trophy with the Rossoneri, while Carlo Ancelotti was fired after failing to capture the Scudetto.

Pavel Nedved's cross-shot did not trouble Dida, while Inzaghi gathered Andrea Pirlo's pass and aimed a weak effort at the near post. Gennaro Gattuso thumped the upright on nine minutes, but play had been halted for a crunching tackle on Lilian Thuram.

Ibrahimovic nearly managed to hook down a long pass forward with only Dida to beat, but even his long limbs couldn't get it under control.

However, moments later it was Milan who took the lead with a spectacular - if fortunate - goal from Clarence Seedorf. The Dutchman combined with Gilardino and his shoot took a decisive deflection off Thuram, lifting the ball over a helpless Chimenti.

The game sprung to life and there were two potential counter-attacks in quick succession for Inzaghi, Ibrahimovic and Kaka, all closed down by some desperate defending.

A furious row broke out off the ball between Gattuso and Emerson, so play had to be stopped while calm was restored. Vieira was then booked for a late challenge from behind on Kaka.

It proved an important foul, as that Pirlo free kick was dropped into the centre and not cleared effectively, so Kaka rifled in a fierce half-volley from 10 yards to beat Chimenti.

Gilardino required treatment after an accidental elbow in the jaw from Thuram, while Capello made a tactical change just before half-time, introducing Giorgio Chiellini for Gianluca Pessotto.

On the stroke of half-time, Milan took a surprise 3-0 lead thanks to a howler from Chimenti. The former Lecce goalkeeper - filling in for Gianluigi Buffon and Abbiati - completely misjudged the flight of a seemingly harmless Pirlo free kick and allowed it to squirm in at the near post.

Nesta was booked for a challenge on Chiellini on the edge of the box, but the defenders were furious as they claimed the ex-Fiorentina man had handled in the build-up.

After the break, Stam came sliding in to stop Nedved pulling the trigger just inside the area. It was a crunching tackle, but one that got the ball.

Juve were more solid, but couldn't create any real scoring opportunities and instead Milan nearly made it 4-0 with another Chimenti error. This time the 'keeper managed to push away another viciously dipping Pirlo set-piece from distance.

A Pirlo strike from the edge of the box took a deflection out for a corner, as the Rossoneri turned up the heat again and Juventus seemed to have problems clearing their lines.

Capello had to introduce a more attacking player and threw on Adrian Mutu for the quiet Mauro German Camoranesi. Nedved found space on the left of the penalty area and his shot was comfortably smothered by Dida.

A corner kick came back in from Paolo Maldini and eventually fell to Seedorf for a half-volley that went over the bar. A scuffle broke out when substitute Mutu fell on Nesta and nearly stamped on him. His team-mates were furious, as the defender had only just returned from a serious injury to his hand.

Inzaghi was halted rushing towards goal for an extremely debatable offside decision. He made way for another ex-Juve man, Christian Vieri, soon after.

Capello even introduced Alessandro Del Piero for the final 20 minutes, pushing him out wide on the left in place of Nedved. Chimenti flew to push out another Pirlo free kick and Maldini's ambitious volley from 25 metres was well over.

Ibrahimovic combined with Trezeguet only to be disposessed by Stam, but moments later Juventus got one back. The same move came back out and Trezeguet sprung the offside trap thanks to Stam's error to volley in Vieira's chipped pass over the defence.

Substitute Vieri ballooned over and Gilardino made way for Marcos Cafu for the final 10 minutes. Nesta slipped inside the area and allowed Del Piero space to cross, but Dida recovered the situation before the ball could reach Ibrahimovic.

Vieri's angled drive shaved the far post in stoppages, but he had just strayed offside and it wouldn't have counted had the finish been on target.

The last kick of the game was a splendid Del Piero volley that tested Dida on the ground, but Milan re-open the title race with a crucial victory.

Milan: Dida; Stam, Nesta, Maldini, Serginho; Gattuso, Pirlo, Seedorf (Kaladze 85); Kakà; Inzaghi (Vieri 69); Gilardino (Cafu 79)

Juventus: Chimenti; Pessotto (Chiellini 41), Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Mutu 58), Emerson, Vieira, Nedved (Del Piero 72); Trezeguet, Ibrahimovic

Ref: Bertini

snakies

11-02-2005, 10:43 PM

Juventus 2 - 1 B Munich
Trezeguet 62, 85 (J), Deisler 67 (B)
Stadio Delle Alpi

David Trezeguet bagged a brace to beat Bayern Munich after another Christian Abbiati error almost proved costly again, but Zlatan Ibrahimovic saw red.

The Bianconeri found themselves under pressure for the first time this season, having lost 2-1 in Munich followed by Saturday's 3-1 Serie A defeat to Milan. Patrick Vieira returned from injury, albeit not 100 per cent fit, while Jonathan Zebina, Gigi Buffon and Alessandro Birindelli remained sidelined.

Christian Abbiati was back in goal after a bout of tonsillitis and his howler in the first leg in Germany, but Fabio Capello gambled with an all-new tactical set-up. A three-man defence allowed Alessandro Del Piero to play behind front two Zlatan Ibrahimovic and David Trezeguet. Robert Kovac faced the club he left in the summer.

Juve nearly scored an own goal after four minutes, as Abbiati had to fly in order to tip Trezeguet's wayward backward header out from under the crossbar.

He almost netted at the other end moments later, a fierce strike stunging the palms of Oliver Kahn, but the Frenchman probably should've passed to the unmarked Del Piero in a better scoring position.

Bayern really should've taken the lead when Emerson mis-timed his challenge and let Roy Makaay free just inside the area, but he drilled his angled drive inches past the upright with Abbiati left motionless.

Juve made possibly an even worse miss on 15 minutes. Gianluca Zambrotta out-sprinted two defenders down the right flank and managed to put in a perfect cross for the totally unmarked Trezeguet, but he somehow blazed well wide of the near post from seven yards.

Claudio Pizarro had timid penalty appeals waved away for a nudge from Lilian Thuram, then at the other end Zambrotta wanted a spot-kick for a scuffle with Ze Roberto.

Kahn smothered an Ibrahimovic attempt from close range after a corner kick came to the back post, but the Swede was visibly on poor form and was booked for a petulant kick at Ismael after the ball had already gone.

Surprisingly, Capello chose to take off Del Piero for Pavel Nedved at half-time. Bayern had a great chance to take the lead immediately after the restart, but Michael Ballack missed his volley and Makaay's follow-up was charged down by Abbiati and a defender.

Kahn smothered a timid Ibrahimovic angled drive from the edge of the box, then Nedved had penalty appeals when his header was charged down by Ismael's arm, then Willy Sagnol blocked an Ibrahimovic follow-up.

Mauro German Camoranesi replaced ex-Bayern Munich man Kovac, moving Giorgio Chiellini and Zambrotta back for a 4-4-2 system.

Juventus eventually broke the deadlock through sheer persistence. Nedved appeared to be brought down just inside the area as he ran on to Ibrahimovic's pass, but before the referee could even consider a penalty appeal, Trezeguet had slammed in the loose ball from 10 yards.

However, Bayern drew level soon after with another mistake from Abbiati, who had given away the first goal in Munich. Sebastian Deisler's free kick from 30 metres went past everyone and bounced just in front of Abbiati.

Capello's third substitution was a curious one, as Adrian Mutu replaced Camoranesi, whose match lasted for just 18 minutes. The Italian international did not appear to be injured and tellingly went off the field from the opposite end, walking all the way around the pitch.

Patrick Vieira nodded a free kick off target, but it was Trezeguet who restored the Bianconeri's lead five minutes from time with a wonderful finish. The Frenchman chested down Vieira's chipped pass and struck a low volley into the far corner of the net for his 106th goal in a Juve jersey - beating the tally of 105 set by John Charles.

It still wasn't over, as Bastian Schweinsteiger's screamer from the edge of the box shaved the near post.

Ibrahimovic had already been booked for kicking out at an opponent earlier on and in the final minute received his second yellow card for a similar incident.

There was a scuffle in stoppages when Chiellini went down on the edge of the box and Bayern carried on playing, but the final whistle was blown and Juve took the victory.

snakies

11-02-2005, 10:44 PM

Fabio Capello has praised David Trezeguet as one of the world’s best goal poachers and warned he will ‘sort out’ Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

“Trezeguet is able to shoot from any position and is a great goal poacher who is in his element in the penalty area rather than moving around the field looking for the ball,” he said after the 2-1 win over Bayern Munich.

“He had another good chance in the first half and probably should’ve passed it, but he is a world class striker and tends to punish opponents at the first opportunity.”

Both giants are currently leading Group A and look solid to qualify for the next stage, with Club Brugge now on track for third place.

“Bayern are a very strong side without weak points. They are technically gifted and physically solid, while they know how to suffer under pressure and are fantastic on set-pieces. They’ll be very tough to beat this year.”

The main disappointment of the evening was the red card for Ibrahimovic, who received two bookings for petulantly kicking out at opponents.

“Ibrahimovic could’ve avoided that, but he did well tonight. He is a very important player and we will set him on the right road. In a relaxed atmosphere we will sort him out.”

Capello made some surprising substitutions in this game, taking off Alessandro Del Piero for Pavel Nedved.

“I think that Del Piero had a good first half, but I needed Nedved to change the tempo in midfield and frighten Bayern. Pavel works more off the ball and creates space, whereas Alex can go past his marker. I had to gamble with the cards I had at my disposal. In the second half Bayern released their grip on the game a little and that is why we found more space.”

Even more intriguing, Mauro Camoranesi was substituted just 18 minutes after stepping on to the field and did not look happy with the switch.

“Camoranesi picked up a knock and, seeing as he wasn’t on form and I needed the pace of Adrian Mutu, I chose to make this decision.”

Bayern had temporarily equalised through a Sebastian Deisler free kick that took Christian Abbiati by surprise, but Capello was eager to defend his goalkeeper.

“When someone comes sliding in right in front of you, the goalkeeper doesn’t know if it’s going to make contact or not, so this goal was not his fault.”

David Trezeguet scored both goals, taking his career tally in a Juventus jersey to 106, and ensuring the Bianconeri got back on track.

“We are all very happy, as this was a show of character, especially after the defeat to Milan,” said the Frenchman. “It was a good performance and we gave everything we had tonight, so we are very satisfied with the result.”

Some sections of the Italian Press had accused Juve of only dominating the little clubs, struggling badly against the likes of Milan and Bayern.

“When you’re facing an organised side like Bayern Munich, it’s always going to be difficult. We really needed this after the Milan game. Juventus proved their worth and now we can prepare for the Livorno match.”

snakies

11-06-2005, 04:01 PM

Juventus 3 - 0 Livorno
Ibrahimovic 58 (J), Trezeguet 60 (J), Del Piero 92 (J)
Stadio Delle Alpi

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Trezeguet and Alessandro Del Piero were forced to work hard in order to beat Livorno and maintain their two-point lead at the top of the table, but Fabio Capello is taking a new hardline stance on lack of discipline among his players.

The Bianconeri may have beaten Bayern Munich midweek, but they needed a victory to get back on their Serie A track after the 3-1 defeat to Milan. They were taking on a Livorno side that was in fifth place going into this weekend and had a Cristiano Lucarelli on fine form.Gianluca Zambrotta again switched to right-back, leaving the left role for Giorgio Chiellini.

David Trezeguet bagged a brace midweek and nearly opened the scoring here after four minutes when Fabio Galante's dreadful header set up the Frenchman for a volley, but his finish was off target.

Moments later, Pavel Nedved drilled wide from the edge of the box, while at the other end Nikola Lazetic dribbled past a defender and fired over.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic left the entire Livorno defence for dead with a cheeky chip that allowed him to run past three players, but his shot was charged down by a desperate Marco Amelia.

The Amaranto went very close to a shock opener on 16 minutes, as Lucarelli's perfect cross reached Diego De Ascentis at the back post, but the former Torino man's header was charged down by Zambrotta's chest.

Lucarelli and Patrick Vieira had hopeful efforts off target, while another Nedved rocket shaved the woodwork. Francesco Coco's strike shook the side-netting after some good build-up play from Lucarelli.

Amelia tipped a tricky Nedved corner kick out of the top corner of the net, and in the second half Ibrahimovic ballooned Adrian Mutu's cross over the bar.

Juventus eventually broke through just before the hour mark. Jorge Vargas inexplicably stopped when Patrick Vieira's pass came over the defence and Zlatan Ibrahimovic was at full stretch to volley it past Amelia.

Moments later, Trezeguet made it 2-0 with his 107th goal in a Juventus jersey. The Livorno defence was again caught napping, as the Frenchman rose to nod in Zambrotta's sweeping cross from the right.

Livorno were furious and lost their heads, as De Ascentis saw red for a reaction foul on Mutu. However, replays suggest contact was minimal and Mutu was substituted soon after to avoid further problems.

The Bianconeri were very unlucky not to make it three, as Ibrahimovic's header was parried at point-blank range and Trezeguet somehow failed to push in the loose ball from a yard.

Lucarelli was the last to give in and his deflected effort looped up off Thuram's leg, Abbiati tipping it out of the top corner.

Mauro Camoranesi chested down the ball for Ibrahimovic and brought another tough save out of Amelia from six yards.

Fabio Capello is taking a new hard stance on lack of discipline and substituted Camoranesi straight after a dreadful challenge on Lucarelli. Camoranesi suffered a similar fate midweek against Munich, as the substitute was in turn replaced.

Alessandro Del Piero netted his fourth of the season in Serie A in stoppages, skipping round Passoni's challenge and the goalkeeper as he ran on to an Ibrahimovic through ball, slotting into an empty net.

Ibrahimovic nearly made it 4-0, bursting through the Livorno defence only for Amelia to block at the near post with one hand.

Juventus: Abbiati; Chiellini, Cannavaro, Thuram, Zambrotta; Nedved, Emerson, Vieira, Mutu (Camoranesi 63) (Balzaretti 86); Trezeguet (Del Piero 72), Ibrahimovic

Livorno: Amelia; Melara, Vargas, Galante; Pfertzel (Cesar Prates 72), Morrone, Passoni, De Ascentis; Lazetic (Bakayoko 78), C Lucarelli (Paulinho 88)

Ref: Brighi

Sent off: De Ascentis 61 (L)