Juventus are finally free from worrying about their unbeaten run. Without the unbeaten in 49 games record at the back of their minds they can now rotate the squad more often, starting with the game against newly promoted side Pescara.
After a 3-1 loss to Inter Milan at home they recouped some of their lost morale and brushed aside Danish side Nordsjaelland in the Champions League mid-week.
Team news
Juventus are close to full strength in terms of numbers sparring Simone Pepe. Conte can chose to play the same side that played mid-week or rotate the squad and rest a few players for the home match against Lazio next week.
To avoid any surprises, Juventus should field a strong lineup considering they have six days to prepare for their next fixture. Giovinco and Vucinic are expected to start in attack and the usual suspects like Pirlo, Vidal, Marchisio, and Asamoah should make up the midfield.
Stephan Lichtsteiner should be back in the squad after being substituted against Inter Milan in the first half fearing a second yellow. New signing Mauricio Isla had a great game in mid-week but he might make way for Lichtsteiner.
Pescara are struggling with form in Serie A and are grappling with injuries.
Match Analysis
Juventus won't change their signature 3-5-2 formation unless there is a storm - the size of hurricane Sandy- coming their way. It is interesting that Pescara want to fight fire with fire and start in a similar formation mirroring Juventus.
Pirlo is Conte's right hand man on the pitch executing his plan to its minutest detail. If Pescara manages to stop Pirlo, Vidal and Marchisio then half the battle is won. Despite their leaky defence, a bold three man defence is an indication that Pescara will look to score early and switch to a five man defence later to protect the lead.
Giovinco - the ant man - had an excellent game mid-week and he will be looking to continue his good run in the league. Pescara should be wary of those long balls coming in from the midfield and peg Vucinic away from the goal. Juve's other form of attack comes from the wings, with Asamoah tearing up the left wing every time he starts.
Juve are poor in defending a counter attack and Pescara can only hope to score against the run of play.
Previous encounters
31-03-2007: Pescara 0-1 Juventus
11-11-2006: Juventus 2-0 Pescara
Prediction
Pescara 0-2 Juventus
