ITALY SOCCER LEGA CALCIO SERIE A NEWS UPDATE

Transfer: Aquilani To AC Milan???

2011-08-03T10:41:00.000+07:00

Milan - AC Milan's interest in news of Alberto Aquilani can be will continue with the transfer agreement. The player's agent said that the talks will be conducted by the value of the players reached 10 million euros.

"When you talk about negotiating with these conditions, there are always elements of truth. Adriano Galliani is currently in China for the Italian Super Cup, but I hope to talk to him when he returned to Milan," said Aquilani agent, Franco Zavaglia.

Milan are looking for a midfielder suddenly declared the intriguing possibility Aquilani from Liverpool. Aquilani is somewhat surprising emergence of the name because he is regarded as a failure with the Reds and appeared normal when on loan to Juventus last season.

Moreover, Milan had reportedly will buy the top players with big names in place of Andrea Pirlo. They include Cesc Fabregas, Bastian Sweinsteiger Marek Hamsik up.

Aquilani related purchase plan, Milan is mentioned has to spend 10 million euros, or around Rp 121 billion. The amount is only half the value of the midfielder when purchased 'The Red' from AS Roma two years ago, which is worth 20 million euros.

"I think the deal could be worth 10 million euros. Aquilani is still bound by a three-year contract with Liverpool and before actually gone he will speak first with their authorities in Liverpool," complete Zavaglia.

Aquilani can be will quickly receive quotes Milan if true they submit proposals. Because the fate he is now at Anfield practically hanging after certainly not included in the plan of the club next season.

Transfer: Pastore To PSG

2011-08-03T10:13:00.000+07:00

Paris - Drama Javier Pastore related term would end. The midfielder said he would join Paris Saint Germain, with the transfer to be a new record for the club.

Certainty will be joining Pastore with PSG confirmed by the player through his personal blog. But do not mention how much money was involved in the transaction.

"I am very excited to begin a new stage (in my career). They explained about the project and I was quickly seduced by the challenge," said Pastore. "PSG is a great club with great history too."

Also make sure there has been an agreement between the PSG with Pastore is Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini. He calls have met with sport director and former coach of PSG Inter Milan, Leonardo, related to the deal.

"Yes, I have reached an agreement with Leonardo and PSG, negotiations are over. Pastore PSG player now. I think he will be announced in Paris between today until Friday," said Zamparini.

French media said that PSG have poured funds amounting to U.S. $ 61.1 million to sign 22-year-old Argentine footballer is. The number was a new record in the French league, breaking the previous record held by Nicolas Anelka when carried off from Real Madri also by PSG with U.S. $ 47.6 million.

Pastore's move to PSG finish the saga related to the club where he was about to strengthen next season. With great talent you have, Pastore said to be the target of many top European clubs like Inter Milan, AC Milan, Manchester United, Manchester City to Barcelona.

1926-2011: A shirt to tell. The SSC Napoli official shirts tour starts

2011-08-03T09:48:00.002+07:00

From July 22, the Sales and Marketing Management of SSC Napoli in collaboration with Publipeas presents the match official shirts of the football season 2011/2012. A bus with 6 windows will provide the "SSC Napoli mobile showroom" of 30 m2 of surface, in which to admire up close the shirts that will wear the champions in a season that promises to be exciting and full of emotions.

Sine 1926 have passed 85 years and to celebrate the first piece of history, the new shirts reflect the historical colors and take inspiration from the years rich in success. The design is inspired by a great team of the past to celebrate the great team of the presente, interpreting the main features of the Club and making them unique thanks the modern technologies of fabrics even more well-advanced.

The historic blue of 80s is now present again in the original name "Blue Force". The link with the past is even more remarkable by the presence of historic shirt of 1986, made famous by Maradona over the years.

The second shirt shows the new color "Carbon Grey", and the third is inspired by the unforgettable yellow shirt and presents itself in the new tone "Yellow Power".

Come and visit us in the main streets, squares and shopping centers in the province of Naples from 22 July. Get into SSC Napoli road show-room, immerse yourself in the blue world, foretaste the next exciting season and the exciting Champions League.

The new shirts of your champions are waiting for your.

Marotta: "Vucinic lifts up our quality"

2011-08-03T09:43:00.000+07:00

Juventus Football Club S.p.A. announces that the agreement with A.S. Roma S.p.A. for the definitive acquisition of the registration rights of the player Mirko Vucinic has been finalized. The contract envisages the payment by Juventus of € 15 million in three years.

Juventus and the player have signed a 4-year contract of employment.

"Vucinic is a player who lifts up the quality value of the team. We're satisfied and so is Conte". These were the words spoken during the introduction press conference by which Giuseppe Marotta had his personal welcome to the Montenegrin striker, the last player acquired by the Bianconeri.
The transfer market follows its path according to Marotta's words: "Our goal is still lifting up the quality value of this group and every effort is made so as to meet Conte's requests. Therefore, until the end of August, we'll be planning other transactions, mainly outwardly as we have now a number of players exceeding the real needs of the season. We'll try to offer the best chances to those who want to leave he club or don't enter in our plans any longer. We want the roster to be defined as soon as possible".
In the end, a clarification on an expression that has frequently been used regarding the transfer market of Juventus: top player. Marotta explains the sense of it under a Bianconero viewpoint: "Talking about top players, we mean quality footballers like Vucinic, as well as Pirlo and Vidal, as stated by all football experts. On the contrary, we don't take care about the price/value ratio and we're not influenced by fiscal aspects. Mirko is a top player and in the past we've spent much more than 15 millions for other transactions. The values of players like Sanchez, Pastore and Aguero are illogical and against the financial fair-play but, evidently, every club is free to act the way they prefer the most".

AMBROSINI: 5TH SUPERCUP

2011-08-03T09:39:00.000+07:00

Ambrosini's story: a little unlucky in past Super Cup finals, let's hope that Massimo is now on the right path.
Let's go back in time. Let's look back at Massimo Ambrosini's story! He almost made his debut in the Italian Super Cup 16 years ago. It was August 25th 1996 and Champions of Italy, Milan, had just moved on from Fabio Capello to Oscar Washington Tabarez (recent winner of the Copa America - congratulations!!) and they were hosting Claudio Ranieri's Fiorentina, holders of the Italian Cup. Milan lost that match 2-1 but Massimo Ambrosini did not play.
The number of Super Cup finals played by the current Milan captain ith the rossoneri are three: Milan-Parma 1-2, August 1999, Juventus-Milan 1-1 (5-3 on penalties), August 2003, Milan-Lazio 3-0, August 2004. So two defeats and a victory. To this we must add the experience with Vicenza in August 1997 when Juventus won 3-0 in Turin.
Those who are superstitious will be hoping that Andriy Shevchenko's hat-trick at the San Siro in 2004 will have led to a positive run of results after the disappointments of the previous two defeats. That night, against Lazio, Massimo left the field in the second half, a minute after Sheva's third goal that sealed the result for Milan.

Gasperini: "Super Cup in China, advert for football"

2011-08-03T09:35:00.000+07:00

BEIJING – "I don't have a crystal ball but we're here to try and win this so that Inter can take home the trophy they missed out on two years ago. And playing against AC Milan makes the event even more prestigious." That was Gian Piero Gasperini's answer to Chinese journalists in his first press conference in Beijing, when asked if Inter would win the Italian Super Cup in 2011, unlike what happened two years ago against Lazio.
The coach was then asked about Javier Zanetti: "He was playing in the Copa America a fortnight ago so he'll be fine." What's the difference between Genoa and Inter? "The importance of the team," replied Gasperini, who went to to speak about this being "a huge step forward in my career".
"Football is played rain or shine, with humidity, in hot or cold weather... whatever the conditions. That's precisely why we came here early so that we can get used to the heat and humidity here. And in any case it will be the same for both teams..." smiled the coach when asked how the team would cope with the "terrible" climate in Beijing, as the locals themselves call it.
Gasperini was also quizzed on the "Sneijder problem", as the Chinese journalists put it, speaking about the uncertainty regarding the Dutchman's future. "He's playing for us, training with us and he'll play on Saturday. There is no Sneijder problem." The topic moved onto the importance of this year's Italian Super Cup in China: "It's an advert for Italian football and also for football in China."
Finally, Gasperini commented on the date of the fixture, which meant he gave some of the players a late holiday after their exertions in the Copa America: "The date forced us to bring things forward a bit, begin our preparations earlier and make certain sacrifices so that we could respect all our commitments while remaining at a very high level. We will be competitive and we'll be able to give a good account of ourselves even if we are missing a few players."

SOrry!!!!!

2011-08-03T09:31:00.001+07:00

Sorry for not updating my old blog because too busy with new job at the Hotel salak Bogor Indonesia. Starting today I will try to update my blog. thank you for your attention.

Friendly Match: AS Roma-Al Saad 2-1

2010-07-28T13:25:00.000+07:00

Jeremy Menez to Roma victory brain when Friendly match face Qatar club Al Saad. Striker Frenchman scored one goal and send one assists.
In a match that was held in Bolzano, Wednesday (07/28/2010) up early this AM, Al Saad in fact the first to threaten in the sixth minute. The Shot deceive the goalkeeper Julio Da Silva but can be driven Mirko Sergio Cassetti at the goal line.
Rome then open the scoring when the game was 21 minutes. Jeremy Menez scored the direction of Claudio Ranieri's team after his right leg kick from close range goal penetrate Al Shoeeb.
The game entered the 36th minute when Roma widen excellence. From bait Menez, Stefano Okaka vinegar escaped from an offside trap and Shoot the ball into the opponent's goal to make Roma 2-0.
In the second half, Ranieri made a number of changes in the formation of Rome. Two lives Giallorossi game, captain Francesco Totti and Simone Perrotta pulled out.
Al Saad sting took place during the second half just six minutes. Da Silva minimize the Qatar club's dropping to 1-2 after his kick beat goalkeeper Bogdan Lobont replacement.
Goalpost saved Rome in 68 minutes. A kick Mesaad Al Hamad almost scored fruitful if not confront the pole even though the motion was to deceive the goalkeeper Lobont,
Score 2-1 for excellence Rome was eventually survive until usainya game.
The composition of players Roma: Julio Sergio (Lobont 46) Rosi, Cassetti (Loria 46), Mexes (Andreolli 60), Antunes, Menez (Scardina 60), Greco, Perrotta (Faty 46) Guberti (Brighi 71), Totti (Taddei 46), Okaka (Cerci 71)
Al-Saad: Al Shoeeb; Al Hamad, Yung Soo, Kasola, Balhaj; Kaita (Abdul Raab 69), Al Bloushi, Rizik (Afif 65), Siddiq; Ibrahim (Al Haydoos 69), Da Silva (Hamood 78)

2010-06-09T16:56:00.000+07:00

Congratulation Inter for treble winner!!!!

Legrottaglie: "We’ll end up at third place"

2010-03-09T15:55:00.002+07:00

Nicola Legrottaglie interviewed during the radio show “La Politica nel Pallone” on Gr Parlamento, speaks about the team’s targets: «I’m convinced that this Juve can end up at third place. We have means to make many points in the last eleven matches».

Juventus defender has faith and this faith comes also from what he’s doing with Zaccheroni: «When a President changes the trainer is to give the group a shock. With a new trainer, also new methods and ideas come along. Zaccheroni ha has an experience and he’s good, we are slowly amalgamating according to his ideas. His print can be seen, also if this does not mean that with Ferrara the team did not have its own identity: now we’ve got another». Legrottaglie praises also single elements’ step forward, Diego above all: «Now he is closer to the goal, while in the championship first phase he came behind to feed the action. He scores, he is dangerous and makes the difference because he is a great player and he’s got a great character too».

Another subject he spoke about is Europa League, considering the oncoming challenge vs. Fulham: «It’s a great competition; to win it could give quite a good confidence boost. At almost 34 years old I’d like to win everything»

9 March 2010: Happy Birthday Inter

2010-03-09T15:45:00.002+07:00

MILAN - We're 102 years old after twelve more months of excitement that only our colours can give. Twelve more months of important successes, anniversaries, milestones and initiatives that have made our black and blue colours even greater all over the world.

It was 15 March 2009 when Javier Zanetti played against Fiorentina at the Meazza to equal Giacinto Facchetti's total of 634 appearances for Inter. Facchetti and Zanetti: two standard-bearers who have represented with pride our colours at home and abroad.

In April, those same colours gave hope to the victims of the Abruzzo earthquake. Inter Clubs from the affected region joined in the relief effort, while Inter Campus sent coaches to provide recreational activities to children, restoring a smile to their faces.

In decidedly different circumstances, there were more smiles in May as Inter fans celebrated the club's 17th Serie A title. It was a special occasion for the club's number one fan Massimo Moratti, who couldn't have wished for a better 64th birthday present, thanks to the players, but also, and above all, to their leader José Mourinho, who several days later celebrated his first year at Inter by extending his contract until 2012.

New horizons beckoned for the Nerazzurri and their new team-mates Diego Milito, Thiago Motta, Samuel Eto'o and Lucio, who were embraced by the warm Californian climate on 13 July when they arrived for the club's first ever pre-season in the USA. It was a unique experience for Mourinho's men, who were treated to more unforgettable emotions when they stepped onto the pitch in Beijing's iconic Bird's Nest stadium at eight o'clock on the eighth day of the eighth month, precisely a year after the start of the 2008 Olympic Games.

The Super Cup was the curtain raiser for a spectacular start to the Serie A season which saw Inter, bolstered by the arrival of Sneijder, thrash AC Milan 4-0 in an extraordinary August derby which had a truly international appeal. Just like the Inter Campus World Cup in September, which saw young players from nineteen different countries come together in Tuscany.

While an increasingly solid Inter continued their march towards more trophies, there was also space for individual brilliance, as Dejan Stankovic showed us with his stunning goal from the halfway line in a 5-0 win away to Genoa. Unforgettable images, just like those that decorated the walls of Winterstore, the Nerazzurri universe that opened its doors on 27 November in the heart of Milan.

Inter were back on the road at the end of December with a winter training camp in Abu Dhabi before opening 2010 with an exhibition friendly against Al-Hilal in Riyadh to mark the farewell to football of Asian soccer legend Nawaf Al-Temyat.

The turn of the new year saw the arrival of two new champions: Mariga and Goran Pandev. For the Macedonian it was a return home, the same home that saw Ivan Ramiro Cordoba celebrate a decade at Inter and surpass the number of Serie A appearances for Inter made by the legendary Giuseppe Meazza. A record that stems from passion, the same passion shared by Massimo Moratti, who for the last fifteen years has followed in the footsteps of his father Angelo.

The long history of a boundless passion continues, in the same spirit of our founders who established FC Internazionale Milano on 9 March 1908.

Happy Birthday Inter.

Tim Cup: Inter 2-1 Juventus, Nerazzurri into semis

2010-01-29T13:02:00.003+07:00

MILAN - Mario Balotelli scored a minute from time as the Nerazzurri came from behind to defeat Juventus and set up a Tim Cup semi-final against Fiorentina.

Inter were behind early on when Diego scored from a free kick. The Bianconeri's lead lasted until the 72nd minute when Lucio slotted in the equaliser.

With time running out Balotelli put his seal on another Nerazzurri comeback with his fourth career goal against Juventus and seventh goal of the season.

Diego gave his under-fire coach Ciro Ferrara something to smile about in the tenth minute when he burst past Cambiasso on the left and created space before firing a low shot under Francesco Toldo.

Balotelli forced a save from Buffon and Maicon sent an angled effort over after one-twoing with Pandev as the Nerazzurri fought for an equaliser, but the visitors created chances to add to their lead and Toldo made amends for his earlier mistake when he kept out a strong long-range shot from Grosso.

On the stroke of half time Inter had a penalty claim waved away by referee Antonio Damato when Felipe Melo blocked Thiago Motta's cross with his right hand.

It was just the kind of decision to jolt the Nerazzurri into action and Mourinho's men made the better start to the second half, but Juve threatened first when Chiellini headed Diego's cross on to the outside of the post.

A change was needed and Mourinho withdrew Cambiasso, introduced Milito and suddenly it was all Inter. The reward came with less than twenty minutes remaining when Sneijder's free kick spun off the wall and Lucio beat Chiellini at the far post to poke home.

Buffon made vital blocks from Milito and Balotelli as the Nerazzurri went all-out for a winner, and with extra time looming the Italian striker stunned the Bianconeri with an unstoppable shot from close-range after Buffon parried away Thiago Motta's 20-yard drive.

Inter 2-1 Juventus (HT: 0-1)

Scorers: Diego 10, Lucio 72, Balotelli 89.

Inter: 1 Toldo; 13 Maicon, 6 Lucio, 23 Materazzi, 39 Santon; 4 Zanetti, 19 Cambiasso (22 Milito 61), 8 Thiago Motta; 10 Sneijder; 45 Balotelli, 27 Pandev (11 Muntari 80).
Subs not used: 12 Julio Cesar, 2 Cordoba, 7 Quaresma, 25 Samuel, 89 Arnautovic.
Coach: José Mourinho.

Juventus: 1 Buffon; 21 Grygera, 5 Cannavaro, 3 Chiellini, 6 Grosso; 22 Sissoko, 4 Melo, 26 Candreva, 29 De Ceglie (27 Paolucci 90+2); 28 Diego, 11 Amauri.
Subs not used: 13 Manninger, 15 Zebina, 32 Yago, 33 Legrottaglie, 39 Marrone, 43 Boniperti.
Coach: Ciro Ferrara.

Referee: Antonio Damato (Barletta).

Booked: Maicon 42, Chiellini 50, Melo 71, Cannavaro 76.

Serie A: Inter 2-0 AC Milan

2010-01-25T14:41:00.000+07:00

MILAN - Diego Milito scored an early goal before the dismissal of Wesley Sneijder and Goran Pandev added a curling free kick after the break to send Inter nine points clear at the top of the Serie A table.

Julio Cesar saved a penalty from Ronaldinho in injury time at the end of the second half as the Nerazzurri completed a memorable league double over their city rivals without conceding a single goal.

José Mourinho's men made a roaring start, Sneijder shaving the post with a superb long-range swerveshot in the opening seconds. Pandev set up a second chance for Sneijder before assisting Milito for the opening goal.

The Macedonian's long-range pass sailed into the path of Milito and Abate made sure it landed at his feet with a disastrous back-header. El Principe raced on goal found the bottom right corner with a low angled shot.

Fast on the break and superior in midfield, Inter created plenty of chances to double their lead and Dida made crucial saves from Milito and Pandev.

The Nerazzurri were dealt a blow on 26 minutes when Sneijder was shown a straight red card for protesting at Gianluca Rocchi's decision to book Lucio for diving when Ambrosini appeared to make contact with the Brazilian defender.

Leonardo made a switch at the break, bringing on Seedorf for Gattuso, and his team made the extra man tell in a strong start to the second period. Julio Cesar was suddenly a busy man and the Inter goalkeeper brilliantly kept out Seedorf's close-range header, protecting his near post moments later as he watched Ronaldinho's volley fly just wide.

Milito briefly interrupted Milan's momentum with a low shot that was saved by Dida, but the Rossoneri were straight back into attack and Borriello saw two headers saved before watching a third go over the bar.

Inter charged forward and Pandev rattled the post after a defence-splitting one-two with Milito. Pandev went one better on 65 minutes when he curled in a free kick to celebrate his first Milan derby in the best possible fashion and earn himself a standing ovation when substituted by Thiago Motta.

The drama spilled over into added time when Milan were awarded a penalty and Lucio was sent off for the second booking after handling the ball. Ronaldinho stepped up to the spot but Julio Cesar guessed right and pulled off a vital save.

Inter 2-0 AC Milan (HT: 1-0)

Scorers: Milito 10, Pandev 65.

Inter: 12 Julio Cesar; 13 Maicon, 6 Lucio, 25 Samuel, 39 Santon; 4 Zanetti, 19 Cambiasso, 11 Muntari (2 Cordoba 87); 10 Sneijder; 27 Pandev (8 Thiago Motta 67), 22 Milito (45 Balotelli 81). 
Subs not used: 1 Toldo, 23 Materazzi, 30 Mancini, 89 Arnautovic.
Coach: José Mourinho.

AC Milan: 1 Dida; 20 Abate, 19 Favalli, 33 Thiago Silva, 77 Antonini (18 Jankulovski 77); 8 Gattuso (10 Seedorf 46), 21 Pirlo, 23 Ambrosini (11 Huntelaar 80); 32 Beckham, 22 Borriello, 80 Ronaldinho.
Subs not used: 12 Abbiati, 4 Kaladze, 9 Inzaghi, 25 Bonera. 
Coach: Leonardo.

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi (Florence).

Booked: Beckham 3, Lucio 26, Favalli 28, Muntari 38, Pandev 65, Thiago Silva 69.
Sent off: Sneijder 26, Lucio 90+1.

Att.: 80,018.

Julio Cesar 12

Dida

Zanetti 4

Gattuso Gennaro Ivan

26'

91'

93'

Lucio 6

Favalli Giuseppe

26'

Sneijder 10

Abate Ignazio

38'

89'

Muntari 11

Pirlo Andrea

Maicon 13

Borriello Marco

Cambiasso 19

Ambrosini Massimo

10'

83'

Milito 22

Beckham David

Samuel 25

Thiago Silva

65'

69'

Pandev 27

Antonini Luca

Santon 39

Ronaldinho

substitutes

Toldo 1

Abbiati Christian

89'

Cordoba 2

Kaladze Kakha

69'

Motta 8

Inzaghi Filippo

Materazzi 23

Seedorf Clarence

Mancini 30

Huntelaar Klaas Jan

83'

Balotelli 45

Jankulovski Marek

Arnautovic 89

Bonera Daniele

Mourinho: "We'd only have lost with six..."

2010-01-25T14:38:00.001+07:00

Monday, 25 January 2010 00:24:58

MILAN - José Mourinho's Nerazzurri played 65 minutes with ten men and added time with nine as they battled to a famous derby victory over AC Milan. "We showed everything, we showed that we could only have lost this match if we had had six men on the pitch," said the Inter coach. "With six men we would have lost because with seven we would still have won it. But this wasn't the kind of match that coaches dream about. A dream match for coaches is one in which the team wins, plays very well, and so do the opponent and the referee. This is the perfect match.

"We won tonight, Inter played a spectacular game from every point of view. From the first minute you could see we were the stronger team. We won, but we leave here with a strange taste. It was a strange match where my players were fantastic and Milan played their game. There's nothing else to say."  

Mourinho was asked for his thoughts on Gianluca Rocchi's refereeing and the decision to send off Wesley Sneijder. He replied: "This is your country, it's your championship. I'm just a foreigner who comes here to do his job. I don't want to add anything else, but I repeat that we would only have lost today if we had been reduced to six men. Milan did everything to leave here with dignity, the match was never easy for them. I haven't heard Leonardo's post-match declarations, but I don't need to. He's a great man and he will be the first to say that Inter deserved to win."

Goran Pandev was set to be substituted by Thiago Motta moments before his goal, but the Macedonian stayed on long enough to score from a free kick. "A match of details? I already said it some time ago: a lucky coach is better than a good coach," said Mourinho. "Goran was about to come off, it was luck and instinct, but someone told me to leave him on the pitch for a few more minutes. Football is a game and sometimes you also need a bit of luck. We are lucky to have Pandev, I am lucky to have some very good players whose only thought was to win, finish with nine men and not with six."   

Mourinho underlined the work done by several of his players ahead of the Milan derby. "Sneijder has worked hard, away from the group, knowing that his only reference point was Pirlo. Thiago Motta did the impossible to play today, perhaps he deserves more consideration from the fans. Leonardo also did everything possible. He played two centre-forwards, but I'm happy that Inzaghi stayed on the bench because Pippo always creates problems for me. Muntari and Motta did everything possible to be on the pitch tonight. Santon did very well and I'm very satisfied with his reply, but unfortunately the game changed and he couldn't push forward. He couldn't create a lot but he did well and I can't find a player of mine who wasn't perfect tonight.

"Championship over? No. I have already realised that they won't let us win the championship. If in Bari they decided not to punish Bonucci's foul with a red and if today Sneijder was sent off, I don't think we can win this Scudetto. Rocchi told me that Sneijder was sent off for the applause and he asked me what I do if a player ironically applauds a decision of mine. No, I replied, I don't send him off because this is part of the game. But it wasn't a coincidence that Mr Rocchi produced the red card."

Serie a: Bologna-Atalanta 2-2

2010-01-21T11:38:00.000+07:00

Bologna - Bologna was forced to play entertaining draw at Atalanta in the Italian League continued. Had two-goal lead through Marco Di Vaio, Rossoblu arrested 2-2.

Compete in front of his own supporters, Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, Thursday (21/1/2010) dawn WIB, Bologna opened advantage when entering the fight 19 minutes. Striker geeks, Divaio, inflame the host fans with goals made.

Italy squad Franco Colomba besutan change the position to be 2-0 before the break. Precisely at 34 minutes to break Divaio goal back his guests.

However, these advantages could be maintained Bologna. Three minutes after the second goal Divaio, Atalanta managed to minimize the miss by Thomas Manfredini. Score was changed to 2-1 for the host.

Ernesto Chevanton into a nightmare of Bologna victory dispelled. The successful striker scored the ball into the goal during action in 60 minutes. 2-2 score lasted until the final whistle sounded the referee.

In another match held at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, Genoa also failed to take advantage playing at home. Entertain Bari, Marco Rossi et al counterbalanced guest 1-1.

Barreto host surprising when he scored a quick goal in the fourth minute. Omar Milanetto to rescue his team by scoring 53 minutes penyama.

Two of those games had little effect on the standings list. With Bari 29 points up one rank to ninth position, so the Genoese were rising one strip to the ladder 11.

While Atalanta could not get out of the relegation zone because they still survive in the order of 18, while the Bologna right in the top by collecting 20 points.

Coppa Italy: Fiorentina into Final

2010-01-21T11:37:00.001+07:00

Florence - Fiorentina finally drove into Copa semi-final after overcoming Italy 3-2 Lazio. In the match Adrian Mutu contributed two goals for the Viola.

In the match at Stadio Franchi, Thursday (21/1/2010) dawn WIB, Fiorentina down full force. While Lazio without reinforced Sergio Floccari, Mourad Meghni, Francelino Matuzalem and Roberto Baronio

But the more Lazio had threatened early in the game through Mauro Zarate and Tommaso Rocchi. Fiorentina Still capable of winning it first in this game through quality goals in the 8th minute.

Romania striker was moved from the left side with no guard and a good finish with Alberto Gilardino cross with his right foot shot. Fiorentina were winning 1-0 over Lazio.

One minute before halftime, Mutu back to break Lazio goalkeeper Nando escorted by Muslera. Goals are created through the right leg kick Quality after returning to good cooperation with Gilardino.

In the second half, Lazio had tried to get up. In the 50th minute, Zarate Sebastien Frey conquered through individual action. But nine minutes later Per Krøldrup make more superior Fiorentina 3-1.

Rocchi scored in the 68th minute had a chance to pursue Biancoceleste Fiorentina. Yet until the end of 3-2 score pertandigan remain unchanged for the Fiorentina victory.

The victory made the right Fiorentina advanced to semi-finals. Meanwhile, Viola opponent in the next round is the winner of the Inter Juventus.

Teams:

Fiorentina: Frey; De Silvestri, Natali, Krøldrup, Pasqual (Gobbi 53); Donadel, Montolivo; Santana (Marchionni 59), Mutu (Carraro 73), Vargas; Gilardino

Lazio: Muslera; Stendardo (Foggia 46), Diakite, Radu; Lichtsteiner (Del Nero 79), Brocchi, Dabo, Kolarov; Mauri (Makinwa 68); Rocchi, Zarate

Football Oscar 2010

2010-01-19T10:11:00.001+07:00

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was chosen as the best football player 2008/2009 Serie A season. While the status of best coach last season belonged to Jose Mourinho.

Announcement award known as the Football Oscar was conducted on Monday (18/1/2010) evening local time. As the name implies, the ceremony had been held since 1997 was given to the best football player in Serie A. graze

Although now been joined with Barcelona, Ibra still selected as the best player 2008/2009 season. It can not be released from the contribution amount Nerazzurri won scudetto drive and donations amounted to 25 goals, which also led the Swedish striker became top skorer.

The striker was even 28 years can be two awards at the same time as it also was chosen as the best foreign players. This is the second time Zlatan reached, after he had the same success in the previous season.

From category coach, Jose Mourinho beat its competitors to become the best. Success gives first scudetto in the coming season at the Giuseppe Meazza be the biggest accomplishment he's Portugal.

Inter Milan became the most dominant club in the event this year because the total received five awards. Besides the two obtained Ibra and one of Mourinho, Nerazzurri are also chosen as the best team last season. Julio Cesar While completing his degree with the best goalkeeper.

From the ranks of the best young players in AC Milan represented by Alexandre Pato. While the title of the best local players fell on AS Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi. Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini was elected as the best defender. Thus quoted by Reuters.

SERIE A: 19TH MATCHDAY

2010-01-11T11:05:00.001+07:00

In the anticipated matches of the 19th matchday Roma and Inter won at home. In the Champions League zone Napoli, Fiorentina, and Palermo won important matches. Livorno, Genoa and Cagliari also did well. Tonight Juve-Milan.

MILAN - Here's how it went in the 19th matchday of Serie A.

19th matchday of Serie A: all the results

*19th matchday*	*Results*	*Goalscorers*
Roma-Chievo (saturday 18.00)	1-0	1' De Rossi (R)
Inter-Siena (saturday 20.45)	4-3	18', 65' Maccarone (S), 24' Milito (I), 36', 88' Sneijder (I), 37' Ekdal (S), 93' Samuel (I)
Bologna-Cagliari	0-1	66' Matri (C)
Fiorentina-Bari	2-1	25' Barreto (B), 38' Mutu (F), 74' Castillo (F)
Genoa-Catania	2-0	36' Mesto (G), 71' Sculli (G)
Livorno-Parma	2-1	23' Tavano (L), 62' Lucarelli (L), 68' Dzemaili (P)
Napoli-Sampdoria	1-0	71' Denis (N)
Palermo-Atalanta	1-0	70' pen. Cavani (P)
Udinese-Lazio	1-1	16' Floccari (L), 27' Di Natale (U)
Juventus-Milan (20.45)

For the current standings, click here

The next round of Serie A

20th matchday - 16-17 January 2010

Cagliari-Livorno (saturday 18.00)

Bari-Inter (saturday 20.45)

Atalanta-Lazio

Chievo-Juventus

Fiorentina-Bologna

Milan-Siena

Parma-Udinese

Roma-Genoa

Sampdoria-Catania

Napoli-Palermo (20.45)

When it rains it pours…

2010-01-11T11:00:00.001+07:00

Ferrara fields a 4-4-1-1 formation with Diego behind Amauri as sole striker. The first few minutes see Juventus on the offensive. The players are highly concentrated and determined, conscious of the importance of the match.

On the first minute there is a good long ball towards Amauri but Abate manages to clear. Four minutes later, there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego puts a dangerous ball into the area but the defence in some way manages to clear. On the 6th minute a Grygera cross into the area is cleared.

It is the 8th minute when there is a bad foul on Brazzo by Ronaldinho who goes unpunished. Free-kick for Juve cleared into corner: ball into the area but the referee sees a foul in attack.

The 12th minute sees Diego attempting a powerful shot from outside the area but Dida manages to block. Beautiful footwork and conclusion by Diego one minute later, who sees the ball go slightly wide with Dida beaten.

On the 14th minute there is a corner for Milan following a Chiellini clearance: Poulsen frees the area. Six minutes later it is Juve who benefit from a corner: ball into the area but the defence clears, Diego wins the ball back but he puts it out as he sees Gattuso on the ground.

The 24th minute sees good work by Diego who passes to Grygera whose cross is beyond the touchline. Two minutes later, Cheillini clears into corner: Beckham puts the ball into the area with Amauri heading away a first time but the Milan shot from the re-bound is collected easily by Manninger.

The 28th minute marks a turning point in the match: there is a corner for Milan. The ball is put into the area, Melo does not manage to stop and Nesta deposits at the back of the net for the opener: 0-1.

On the half-hour mark, Diego is denied a foul just outside the area and five minutes later Juve have a corner but Diego's ball is headed away by Pirlo. On the 38th minute, Diego puts a ball into the area with Amauri trying an overhead kick but he does not manage to hit the ball.

It is the 39th minute when there is a corner for Juve: ball cleared a first time from the area, from the rebound the ball reaches Chiellini who shoots but Dida in some way manages to stop.

The last bit of action for the first half is on the 45th minute. There is a free-kick for Milan: Manninger with a great save puts the ball into corner. From the flag Beckham puts the ball into the area and Ronaldinho heads towards goal with Grygera saving into corner what looked like a sure goal.

The second half starts with Juve on the attack. On the 1st minute a Poulsen shot is deviated into corner: from the flag Diego's cross is headed by Amauri with the ball going just wide. Unlucky!

Two minutes later there is a free-kick for Juve from a great distance: Diego puts the ball into the area and Chiellini heads well with Dida managing to cradle the ball. On the 4th minute, Grosso misses a ball in the Juve area but Beckham's shot goes high.

It is the 7th minute when there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego puts a good ball into the area, Cannavaro's overhead kick goes wide and Chiellini from the re-bound sees his attempt being cleared. Seven minutes later, there is a corner for Juve: Diego puts the ball into the area after exchanging with Marchisio but his cross goes wide.

The 15th minute sees Del Piero coming on for Salihamidzic. Luck has long left Juventus and seconds later Poulsen suffers a cut close to his ankle and is forced to leave the field. One minute later, a Marchisio shot is deviated into corner: ball into the area by Diego is cleared by the defence, it reaches Del Piero who shoots high over the bar.

Three minutes later De Ceglie comes on for Poulsen. On the 20th minute, there is a free-kick for Juve: Del Piero's attempt goes well high over the bar. Two minutes later, Manninger and Chiellini in a misunderstanding see Juve risk with the ball finally in corner: the defence clears.

It is the 23rd minute when a series of Milan shots are cleared by the defence. Manninger waves a way a dangerous ball which is cleared by the defence after reaching Beckham who shoots. Corner for Milan: ball reaches Ronaldinho who beats Manninger with a slight deviation: 0-2.

On the 33rd minute a cross into the Milan area by Diego is cleared by the defence. Five minutes later there is a free-kick for Juve: Del Piero from 32 metres sees his ball go slightly high.

The 41st minute sees a corner for Milan which is cleared by the defence but from the second flag from the shot, the ball is put into the area and Ronaldinho who shoots home for the 0-3.

On the 45th minute Manninger leaves the area to clear from Huntelaar and two minutes later, on the second out of 3 minutes of stoppage time given, Del Piero's shot from a free-kick is saved by Dida into corner.

The end result is one which seems to be exaggerated but as the old saying goes “when it rains it pours” and Juve have definitely been down for luck in the recent past.

Serie A 2009/10 - 19th match day
Turin, Olympic Stadium
Sunday 10th January, 2010

JUVENTUS – MILAN: 0-3

Scorers : Nesta (28th), Ronaldinho (71st), Ronaldinho (88th),

JUVENTUS: Manninger; Grygera, Chiellini, Cannavaro, Grosso; Melo, Poulsen (De Ceglie 63rd), Salihamidzic (Del Piero 60th), Marchisio; Diego; Amauri. Reserves: Chimenti, De Ceglie, Legrottaglie, Zebina, Tiago, Del Piero, Immobile. Coach: Ferrara.

MILAN: Dida; Abate, Nesta, T. Silva, Antonini; Gattuso (Flamini 65th), Pirlo, Ambrosini, Beckham, Borriello (Huntelaar 85th), Ronaldinho. Reserves: Storari, Favalli, Kaladze, Flamini, Inzaghi, Huntelaar. Coach: Leonardo.

REFEREE: Damato

Yellow Cards: Poulsen (30th), Ambrosini (73rd), Amauri (79th)

Serie A: Inter 4-3 Siena

2010-01-11T10:58:00.000+07:00

MILAN - The goals flew in on a rainy evening in Milan as Serie A leaders Inter came from behind to beat cellar dwellers Siena 4-3 and extend their advantage at the top to eleven points.

Massimo Maccarone thought he had opened and closed the scoring to lift the Tuscans off the bottom rung of the table, but Wesley Sneijder grabbed a late equaliser from a free kick before Walter Samuel celebrated his return from injury with a dramatic winner in time added on.

Dejan Stankovic and Thiago Motta returned from suspension and filled holding midfield roles as José Mourinho kept faith with the 4-2-3-1 formation that beat Chievo in midweek, with Quaresma replacing the disqualified Balotelli and Zanetti switching to left-back in place of Chivu.

Keen to impress on his home debut, Goran Pandev rattled Siena's cage in the ninth minute, forcing two good saves from Curci after some great close ball control.

Siena soaked up the early pressure and took a shock lead on eighteen minutes, Maccarone beating Julio Cesar with a long-range shot that travelled at a whopping 108km/hour on its way into the top right corner.

The Nerazzurri's reply came six minutes later. Sneijder picked out Milito on the left edge of the area and the Argentine turned Cribari before sending a crisp low shot beyond Curci and in at the far post.

Free kick maestro Sneijder treated the home fans to a repeat of his goal against Livorno in the Tim Cup last month, giving Inter a 36th-minute lead with a trademark curling shot.

But Malesani's men hadn't come to the Meazza to defend and they equalised within a minute through Ekdal. Unmarked in the area, the Swedish youngster latched on to Reginaldo's low cross from the right and rifled past Julio Cesar.

Walter Samuel replaced Quaresma at the break, but Inter suffered a further injury setback when Stankovic pulled up with a calf problem when emerging from the tunnel, and on came Marko Arnautovic for his home debut.

Siena boss Alberto Malesani replaced the injured Curci with Pegolo and the Bianconeri's substitute goalkeeper was kept busy with saves in quick succession from Sneijder and Arnautovic.

The Bianconeri edged back in front in the 65th minute when Reginaldo tore down the right and sidestepped Samuel before playing to Maccarone, who sidefooted past Julio Cesar.

Mourinho's response was to bring off Thiago Motta and hand Inter Primavera attacking midfielder Alen Stevanovic his competitive debut. The Swiss youngster made an immediate impact with a precise through ball for Pandev but the Macedonian, who appeared to be pushed off the ball, was denied by Pegolo.

The Inter coached looked to be heading for his first home defeat in domestic league and cup matches since 23 February 2002, but Sneijder gave the Nerazzurri a lifeline two minutes from time with an unstoppable thunderbolt free kick that flew in off the post.

In time added on Samuel popped up in the area to finish off a well-worked move, receiving short from Pandev and firing past Pegolo to stun Siena.

Inter 4-3 Siena (HT: 2-2)

Scorers: Maccarone 18, 65, Milito 24, Sneijder 36, 88, Ekdal 37, Samuel 90+3.

Inter: Julio Cesar; 13 Maicon, 6 Lucio, 2 Cordoba, 4 Zanetti; 5 Stankovic (89 Arnautovic 46), 8 Thiago Motta (28 Stevanovic 67); 7 Quaresma (25 Samuel 46), 10 Sneijder, 27 Pandev; 22 Milito. 
Subs not used: 1 Toldo, 29 Donati, 31 Alibec, 48 Crisetig. 
Coach: José Mourinho.

Siena: 85 Curci (31 Pegolo 46); 87 Rosi, 29 Cribari, 15 Brandao, 3 Del Grosso; 8 Vergassola, 10 Codrea, 12 Ekdal (23 Jarolim 81); 7 Reginaldo (17 Fini 72), 32 Maccarone, 24 Jajalo. 
Subs not used: 6 Terzi, 9 Paolucci, 11 Calaiò, 21 Rossi. 
Coach: Alberto Malesani.

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo (Schio).

Booked: Stankovic 41, Sneijder 75, Codrea 88.
Sent off: Cribari 90+5.

Att.: 52,979.

Pandev: "A dream to play for Inter"

2010-01-08T13:08:00.001+07:00

APPIANO GENTILE - The day after his Inter debut against Chievo, Goran Pandev was unveiled to the press at the training ground. "It's a great emotion to wear the Inter shirt again," said the Macedonian striker. "I have to thank the boss for giving me the chance to play immediately. It was a dream to play with the Inter shirt after five months without playing."

Pandev was accompanied into the press room by José Mourinho and Gabriele Oriali, who reassured the press about the condition of Cristian Chivu before expressing his satisfaction at seeing Goran back at Inter. "I welcome Goran back," said Oriali. "I'm very pleased to see him back here because we let him go too soon. I'm also very pleased because there were many other clubs, including some foreign ones, that were interested in him."

Goran Pandev pulled on his new number 27 shirt yesterday after a long absence from the playing field. "This period was very hard for me but I continued to train well because I was upset to be without football," explained Inter's latest signing. "I spent five beautiful years at Lazio though, and I improved as a man and a player. I thank that team but I am here now, and ready like everyone else. I am among many champions, so it won't be easy to play every time."

Pandev, who signed a contract until 2014 on Monday, said he still needs time to reach peak fitness. "I'm at 70 or 80% of my physical condition, but I will always give my contribution. It was easy for me during Chievo-Inter because my team-mates explained many things to me. I didn't think I'd manage to stay on the pitch so long, but I gave my all. I have to thank my companions. They are champions and it's easy to play with them."

José Mourinho closed Pandev's presentation press conference with his own personal opinion of the new Inter striker: "All of his coaches have made a great contribution to Goran's professional development. He is a player of great quality and experience. What he said was true: it's easier when you join a team of champions, but he played for the team yesterday, not for himself, and this is why I decided to leave him on the pitch for so long. He's not in top condition, but this doesn't bother me. What counts is that he gives his all."

1-2… and a Happy New Year!

2010-01-07T14:49:00.001+07:00

The match sees a determined start to 2010 for the bianconeri with Ferrara fielding a traditional 4-4-2 formation that sees Diego and Trezeguet as the attacking duo.

Great start by Juve. On the 3rd minute there is a corner for Juve after Castellini heads a dangerous Diego cross away: Diego puts the ball into the area and Salihamidzic heads home for the opener (0-1).

Three minutes later there is a good Caceres run on the right flank, with the Uruguay defender passing to Trezeguet who tries a feint towards Diego but the defence anticipates.

Ferrara’s team continues to attack and on the 12th minute, a Trezeguet header is controlled by the keeper. Parma try a reaction and it is the 16th minute when Manninger performs a great save into corner. From the flag the ball is put into the area but it is cleared by the defence.

On the 19th minute, there is a ball into the Juve area but Manninger grabs easily. Two minutes later Parma benefit of a corner: ball cleared by the defence and the second shot goes high over the bar.

It is the 22nd minute when Amauri comes on for an injured Trezeguet. Three minutes later, ball into the Juve area and Amoruso heads home for the equaliser. 1-1.

On the 32nd minute, there is a corner for Parma after Manninger performs a great save: ball cleared by the defence. Three minutes later, there is great work and a good pass into the area by Diego but Amauri misses the moment.

Juve go ahead again on the 38th minute. There is a corner for Juve after Mirante is forced to a save: ball into the area by Diego and is headed into his own net by Castellini (1-2). The 41st minute sees a free-kick for Parma being blocked by the Juve wall.

Half-time is signaled on the 47th minute just as Juve see a good chance go up in smoke.

In the second half Juve start-off just like in the first, showing great determination to bring the three points home. On the 5th minute there is a free-kick for Juve: ball put into the area well by Marchisio but Grosso does not manage to shoot well after stopping.

On the 6th minute Legrottaglie clears following a good effort and one minute later Juve are spared the equaliser as a Zenoni ball into the area is not taken by any of the strikers.

It is the 8th minute when there is a corner for Parma: Poulsen heads away a first time and from the rebound Parma win another corner. Ten minutes later, there is a free-kick for Juve from just outside the area: Diego's attempt goes inches high.

The 24th minute sees a good move and pass by Salihamidzic into the area but the final shot is blocked. One minute later, Manninger blocks a Bojinov shot. It is the 26th minute when there is a corner for Juve: Diego's ball is cleared but the referee whistles for a foul in attack.

On the 27th minute sees Caceres being sent-off for a second yellow. Three minutes later, Grygera comes on for Diego. Free-kick for Parma: ball blcoked and cleared by Chiellini. On the 34th minute De Ceglie comes on for Salihamidzic.

The 38th minute sees a corner for Parma: ball cleared by the Juve defence and two minutes later an Amoruso shot goes wide.

Great team effort as Juve withstand the pressure with one man less. The referee awards 6 minutes of stoppage time. On the 46th minute, there is a free-kick for Parma for a Melo handball: Bojinov's shot is blocked well by the Juve wall.

Two minutes later, Amauri is fouled as he runs towards goal. Free-kick for Juve: Grosso puts the ball high over the bar. On the 51st and last minute there is a free-kick for Parma. Even Mirante goes up. The ball is cleared and Grosso tries a shot at the empty goal but it goes well wide.

Juve bring home 3 important points in what could be translated as a great team effort and great will to get back on the right track. Milan is next.

Serie A 2009/10 18th Match Day
Parma, Stadio Tardini
Saturday 6th January, 2010

PARMA - JUVENTUS: 1-2

Scorers: Salihamidzic (3rd), Amoruso (24th), Castellini (39th o.g.)

PARMA: Mirante, Zaccardo, Dellafiore, Panucci, Castellini (Bojinov 65th), Dzemaili, Morrone, Galoppa (Paloschi 81st), Zenoni, Amoruso, Biabiany. Reserves: Pavarini, Antonelli, Lunardini, Lanzafame, Budel, Paloschi, Bojinov. Coach: Guidolin.

JUVENTUS: Manninger, Caceres, Chiellini, Legrottaglie, Grosso, Salihamidzic (De Ceglie 79th), Marchisio, Poulsen, Felipe Melo, Diego (Grygera 75th), Trezeguet (Amauri 22nd). Reserves: Chimenti, Giovinco, Grygera, De Ceglie, Tiago, Del Piero, Amauri. Coach: Ferrara.

Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

SERIE A: THE 18TH MATCHDAY

2010-01-07T14:44:00.000+07:00

Ahead of the evening match at San Siro, in the 18th matchday Inter won at Verona and Juve momentarily move into second place after beating Parma 2-1 away from home. Napoli, Fiorentina, Bari and Lazio win.

MILAN - Here's how it went on the 18th matchday of Serie A.

18th matchday of Serie A: all the results

*18th matchday*	*Result*	*Goalscorers*
Chievo-Inter (12.30)	0-1	12' Balotelli (I)
Atalanta-Napoli	0-2	7' Quagliarella (N), 58' Pazienza (N)
Bari-Udinese	2-0	6' Meggiorini (B), 68' Barreto (B)
Cagliari-Roma	2-2	52' pen. Pizarro (R), 65' Perrotta (R), 90' Lopez (C), 93' Conti (C)
Catania-Bologna	1-0	81' Spolli (C)
Lazio-Livorno	4-1	48', 54' Floccari (L), 52' Bergvold (L), 72' Rocchi (L), rig. Kolarov (L)
Parma-Juventus	1-2	3' Salihamidzic (J), 25' Amoruso (P), 39' o.g. Castellini (P)
Sampdoria-Palermo	1-1	40' Cavani (P), 41' Cassano (S)
Siena-Fiorentina	1-5	5' Kroldrup (F), 28' Santana (F), 36', 66' Gilardino (F), 80' Mutu (F), 84' Maccarone (S)
Milan-Genoa (20.45)

For the current standings, click here

The next round of Serie A

19th matchday - 9-10 January 2010

Roma-Chievo (saturday 18.00)

Inter-Siena (saturday 20.45)

Bologna-Cagliari

Fiorentina-Bari

Genoa-Catania

Livorno-Parma

Napoli-Sampdoria

Palermo-Atalanta

Udinese-Lazio

Juventus-Milan (20.45)

Zanetti: "We will really miss Vieira"

2010-01-07T14:39:00.000+07:00

VERONA - Speaking on Inter Channel after Wednesday's win at Chievo, Javier Zanetti said what a privilege it was been to play alongside Patrick Vieira. He said: "We will really miss Vieira, as a man and as a player. I wish him a great career. I am proud to be able to say that I have played with him. We're sorry he's leaving.

"As for the match, I can say that it was an important victory on a disgraceful pitch that you couldn't stand up on. It was strange to play at this time, but personally I didn't have any problems. I ate as normal, as if it were later. I ate pasta and bresaola."

Zanetti also commented on Balotelli's post-match declarations and the crowd in Verona. "If it's true what Mario says about the crowd behaving badly, then I'm sorry. Not only for the crowd in Verona, but for the fans in any other stadium. We cannot accept these things."

Serie A: Chievo 0-1 Inter

2010-01-07T14:37:00.001+07:00

VERONA - Mario Balotelli struck in the 12th minute as Inter saw off Chievo in the first Serie A fixture of 2010 to become winter champions. Wednesday lunchtime's victory at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi stretches our lead at the top to eleven points ahead of the rest of Wednesday's Week 18 fixtures.

With Cambiasso, Krhin, Muntari, Stankovic and Thiago Motta ruled out of the Verona trip, José Mourinho solved his midfield crisis with Pandev, Sneijder and Balotelli in support of solitary striker Milito, and Zanetti alongside Vieira in front of the defence.

On his debut, Goran Pandev had a hand in match-winning goal when he served Sneijder on the edge of the area. The Dutchman played into the path of the unmarked Balotelli, who saw his first shot saved by Sorrentino before finding the net with an angled follow-up that Yepes failed to keep from crossing the line.

Maicon forced Sorrentino into a tipped save and Patrick Vieira - on his 100th appearance in Serie A - crashed a long-range shot over the bar as Inter produced chances to add to their lead.

Bentivoglio had a low effort blocked by Julio Cesar as the Flying Donkeys looked for a half-time leveller, but Inter hit back again when Cristian Chivu danced past three before seeing his shot deflected.

The solo move was Chivu's last slice of the action as a clash of heads with Pellissier saw the Romania captain stretchered off three minutes after the interval. He was replaced by Materazzi, with the excellent Ivan Cordoba switching to left-back.

There were more yellow cards than shots on goal in a scrappy second half, Chievo substitute Abbruscato missing a glorious chance to equalise when he stabbed wide from close range after latching on to Luciano's deflected cross; Julio Cesar making comfortable saves from Luciano and Marcolini; and Sneijder seeing a long-range curling shot stopped by Sorrentino.

Showing inevitable signs of tiredness, Pandev was substituted by Quaresma in the 67th minute. Mourinho made his final substitution two minutes from time, replacing Balotelli with Marko Arnautovic to hand the Austrian forward his competitive debut.

Chievo 0-1 Inter (HT: 0-1)

Scorer: Balotelli 12.

Chievo: 28 Sorrentino; 20 Sardo, 5 Mandelli, 33 Yepes, 4 Mantovani; 10 Luciano (11 Granoche 85), 16 Rigoni, 7 Marcolini; 9 Bentivoglio (6 Pinzi 60); 23 Bogdani (22 Abbruscato 60), 31 Pellissier.
Subs not used: 18 Squizzi, 2 Morero, 19 Ariatti, 21 Frey.
Coach: Nicola Pierpaoli.

Inter: 12 Julio Cesar; 13 Maicon, 6 Lucio, 2 Cordoba, 26 Chivu (23 Materazzi 48); 14 Vieira, 4 Zanetti; 45 Balotelli (89 Arnautovic 88), 10 Sneijder, 27 Pandev (7 Quaresma 67); 22 Milito.  
Subs not used: 1 Toldo, 28 Stevanovic, 29 Donati, 48 Crisetig.  
Coach: José Mourinho.

Referee: Nicola Pierpaoli (Florence).

Booked: Chivu 5, Balotelli 34, Vieira 40, Sardo 59, Marcolini 63, Cordoba 69, Pellissier 75, Quaresma 77, Maicon 45+3.

Att.: 26,000.