Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo has officially surpassed Austrian-Czech legend Josef Bican to become the most goal-scorer in football history for club and country after scoring the opening goal for Juventus in the Supercoppa Italiana clash against Napoli on Wednesday. &nbsp;

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Josef Bican scored 759 goals in his 24-year career (1931-1955) for country and club, and Cristiano Ronaldo has surpassed the feat by scoring 760 goals on Wednesday. Juventus went on to win the trophy after beating their rivals Napoli 2-0.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old star surpassed the Bican on his 1040th appearance. Out of 760 goals, Ronaldo scored 450 times for Real Madrid, 118 times for Manchester United, 102 for his country (Portugal), five with Sporting CP, and 85 times for his current-club Juventus.&nbsp;

<ol>
	<li>Cristiano Ronaldo - 760&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Josef Bican - 759&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Pele - 757</li>
	<li>Lionel Messi - 742</li>
	<li>Romario - 734</li>
	<li>Gerd Muller - 720</li>
</ol>

Pirlo, 41, clinched his first silverware five months after taking over at his former club where he won four league titles.

"Winning a first title (as a coach) is a great joy, different from that felt as a player, it's even more beautiful," said Pirlo, who lifted the trophy three times as a player with Juventus and AC Milan.

Juventus won the annual trophy, played between the league champions and Italian Cup holders, for the ninth time, having finished runners-up last year to Lazio.

"This trophy is very important because it can give us confidence for the rest of our season," said Ronaldo.

Juventus sit fifth in the league, 10 points behind leaders AC Milan, after losing 2-0 to second-placed Inter Milan last weekend.

"The Scudetto is possible, Milan and Inter are very strong, but there are still a lot of games to be played and we can still do it," added Ronaldo.

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo has officially surpassed Austrian-Czech legend Josef Bican to become the most goal-scorer in football history for club and country after scoring the opening goal for Juventus in the Supercoppa Italiana clash against Napoli on Wednesday.

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo has officially surpassed Austrian-Czech legend Josef Bican to become the most goal-scorer in football history for club and country after scoring the opening goal for Juventus in the Supercoppa Italiana clash against Napoli on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Will PSG sign Lionel Messi? Mauricio Pochettino opens up about the move Josef Bican scored 759 goals in his 24-year career (1931-1955) for country and club, and Cristiano Ronaldo has surpassed the feat by scoring 760 goals on Wednesday. Juventus went on to win the trophy after beating their rivals Napoli 2-0. The 35-year-old star surpassed the Bican on his 1040th appearance. Out of 760 goals, Ronaldo scored 450 times for Real Madrid, 118 times for Manchester United, 102 for his country (Portugal), five with Sporting CP, and 85 times for his current-club Juventus. Cristiano Ronaldo - 760 Josef Bican - 759 Pele - 757 Lionel Messi - 742 Romario - 734 Gerd Muller - 720 Pirlo, 41, clinched his first silverware five months after taking over at his former club where he won four league titles. "Winning a first title (as a coach) is a great joy, different from that felt as a player, it's even more beautiful," said Pirlo, who lifted the trophy three times as a player with Juventus and AC Milan. Juventus won the annual trophy, played between the league champions and Italian Cup holders, for the ninth time, having finished runners-up last year to Lazio. "This trophy is very important because it can give us confidence for the rest of our season," said Ronaldo. Juventus sit fifth in the league, 10 points behind leaders AC Milan, after losing 2-0 to second-placed Inter Milan last weekend. "The Scudetto is possible, Milan and Inter are very strong, but there are still a lot of games to be played and we can still do it," added Ronaldo.

Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Josef Bican and becomes greatest ever goal-scorer

Andrea Pirlo won his first trophy as a coach on Wednesday as Juventus beat Napoli 2-0 in the Italian Super Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo blasted in his 20th goal of the season following a corner on 64 minutes in Reggio Emilia, before Napoli captain Lorenzo Insigne missed a penalty and Alvaro Morata added a second deep into injury time.

Pirlo, 41, clinched his first silverware five months after taking over at his former club where he won four league titles.

"Winning a first title (as a coach) is a great joy, different from that felt as a player, it's even more beautiful," said Pirlo, who lifted the trophy three times as a player with Juventus and AC Milan.

Juventus won the annual trophy, played between the league champions and Italian Cup holders, for the ninth time, having finished runners-up last year to Lazio.

"This trophy is very important because it can give us confidence for the rest of our season," said Ronaldo.

Juventus sit fifth in the league, 10 points behind leaders AC Milan, after losing 2-0 to second-placed Inter Milan last weekend.

"The Scudetto is possible, Milan and Inter are very strong, but there are still a lot of games to be played and we can still do it," added Ronaldo.

It was the first meeting between Pirlo and Napoli coach Gennaro Gattuso, who won the 2006 World Cup together and spent a decade as AC Milan teammates, winning two Serie A titles and two Champions League crowns together.

<h2>- 'Sorry for Gattuso' -</h2>

They have not faced off this season after Napoli refused to travel to Turin for their October league match because of coronavirus cases -- a fixture which has still to be played.

"I'm sorry for Gennaro Gattuso, but we wanted to react after the defeat against Inter Milan," said Pirlo.&nbsp;

"We bet a lot on the pride of the players, we wanted to show that we were a team."

Juventus received a boost hours before kick-off with Juan Cuadrado recovering from coronavirus and starting for the first time in two weeks.

Napoli had the best chance of the first half in the Mapei Stadium, with Juve keeper Wojciech Szczsesny demonstrating quick reflexes to save Hirving Lozano's diving header just before the half-hour mark.

Federico Bernardeschi came off the bench after the break in place of Federico Chiesa and immediately had an impact.

Juventus piled on the pressure after an hour when Ronaldo was sent through on goal and defender Kostas Manolas almost deflected the ball into his own net.

But the five-time Ballon d'Or winner made the most of the resulting corner, with the ball bouncing off Tiemoue Bakayoko and into the path of the unmarked Portuguese forward to fire in his 20th goal of the season.

Napoli had a chance to equalise from the spot after Weston McKennie fouled Dries Mertens, but Insigne wasted the opportunity by dragging a woeful effort wide.

Szczsesny pulled off another late save before a last-gasp Morata goal sealed victory.

"We all lost together, not because of Lorenzo's penalty. Let's move on," said Gattuso, 43, whose side beat Juventus in last season's Italian Cup.

"In the first half there was a bit of fear.&nbsp;I don't remember Juve's serious chances today.

"We could have done better, but the match is very similar to the one seven months ago. In fact, we suffered more seven months ago than today."

Andrea Pirlo won his first trophy as a coach on Wednesday as Juventus beat Napoli 2-0 in the Italian Super Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo blasted in his 20th goal of the season following a corner on 64 minutes in Reggio Emilia, before Napoli captain Lorenzo Insigne missed a penalty and Alvaro Morata added a second deep into injury time.

Andrea Pirlo won his first trophy as a coach on Wednesday as Juventus beat Napoli 2-0 in the Italian Super Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo blasted in his 20th goal of the season following a corner on 64 minutes in Reggio Emilia, before Napoli captain Lorenzo Insigne missed a penalty and Alvaro Morata added a second deep into injury time. Pirlo, 41, clinched his first silverware five months after taking over at his former club where he won four league titles. "Winning a first title (as a coach) is a great joy, different from that felt as a player, it's even more beautiful," said Pirlo, who lifted the trophy three times as a player with Juventus and AC Milan. Juventus won the annual trophy, played between the league champions and Italian Cup holders, for the ninth time, having finished runners-up last year to Lazio. "This trophy is very important because it can give us confidence for the rest of our season," said Ronaldo. Juventus sit fifth in the league, 10 points behind leaders AC Milan, after losing 2-0 to second-placed Inter Milan last weekend. "The Scudetto is possible, Milan and Inter are very strong, but there are still a lot of games to be played and we can still do it," added Ronaldo. It was the first meeting between Pirlo and Napoli coach Gennaro Gattuso, who won the 2006 World Cup together and spent a decade as AC Milan teammates, winning two Serie A titles and two Champions League crowns together. - 'Sorry for Gattuso' - They have not faced off this season after Napoli refused to travel to Turin for their October league match because of coronavirus cases -- a fixture which has still to be played. "I'm sorry for Gennaro Gattuso, but we wanted to react after the defeat against Inter Milan," said Pirlo. "We bet a lot on the pride of the players, we wanted to show that we were a team." Juventus received a boost hours before kick-off with Juan Cuadrado recovering from coronavirus and starting for the first time in two weeks. Napoli had the best chance of the first half in the Mapei Stadium, with Juve keeper Wojciech Szczsesny demonstrating quick reflexes to save Hirving Lozano's diving header just before the half-hour mark. Federico Bernardeschi came off the bench after the break in place of Federico Chiesa and immediately had an impact. Juventus piled on the pressure after an hour when Ronaldo was sent through on goal and defender Kostas Manolas almost deflected the ball into his own net. But the five-time Ballon d'Or winner made the most of the resulting corner, with the ball bouncing off Tiemoue Bakayoko and into the path of the unmarked Portuguese forward to fire in his 20th goal of the season. Napoli had a chance to equalise from the spot after Weston McKennie fouled Dries Mertens, but Insigne wasted the opportunity by dragging a woeful effort wide. Szczsesny pulled off another late save before a last-gasp Morata goal sealed victory. "We all lost together, not because of Lorenzo's penalty. Let's move on," said Gattuso, 43, whose side beat Juventus in last season's Italian Cup. "In the first half there was a bit of fear. I don't remember Juve's serious chances today. "We could have done better, but the match is very similar to the one seven months ago. In fact, we suffered more seven months ago than today."

Pirlo wins first trophy as Juventus beat Napoli in Italian Super Cup

Champions Juventus battled to a 3-1 victory over 10-man Sassuolo to close the gap on the top three in Serie A on Sunday.&nbsp;

Andrea Pirlo's side won their third straight league match for the first time this season to move fourth, seven points behind leaders AC Milan with a game in hand.

"It was important to give continuity and win tonight, because otherwise the match played on Wednesday at San Siro was useless," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo whose side ended Milan's 27-match unbeaten run midweek.

Sassuolo played the entire second half a man down after Pedro Obiang saw red for a dangerous challenge on Federico Chiesa.

Defender Danilo put Juventus ahead in the 50th minute when he fired home his first goal of the season.

But seven minutes later Sassuolo pulled level with Gregoire Defrel brilliantly finishing off a Hamed Junior Traore through ball.

Substitute Aaron Ramsey gave Juventus the advantage again eight minutes from time when he tapped in a Gianluca Frabotta cross to claim his first goal of the campaign.

Cristiano Ronaldo completed the scoring deep into injury time, rifling in his 15th league goal this term.

"It was a painful match, badly managed after our advantage, but the important thing was winning even if we were a little disorganised," added Pirlo.

It was a bruising clash for the reigning champions, who are chasing their 10th title in a row, as they lost forward Paulo Dybala and Weston McKennie to injury in the first half.

Midfielder McKennie pulled up after 18 minutes with a muscle problem and was replaced by Welsh international Ramsey.

Dybala was substituted three minutes before the break after receiving treatment for a knock to his left knee, with Swede Dejan Kulusevski coming on in his place.

Juve are already without Alex Sandro, Juan Cuadrado and Matthijs de Ligt who tested positive for coronavirus.

There was also a scare for forward Chiesa, who was left screaming in pain and clutching his left ankle following Obiang's tackle.

But Alvaro Morata returned from injury, coming on for the final minutes of the game for his first outing in 2021.

"McKennie had a slight muscular problem yesterday and he felt it again when he lifted his leg for a back-heel kick, but hopefully nothing serious," said Pirlo.&nbsp;

"Dybala has a collateral ligament problem that we will evaluate better in the next few days."

Sassuolo drop to seventh after their third loss in five games.

Juventus play second-placed Inter Milan in the San Siro next weekend in what could be one of the defining clashes of the season.

Champions Juventus battled to a 3-1 victory over 10-man Sassuolo to close the gap on the top three in Serie A on Sunday. Andrea Pirlo's side won their third straight league match for the first time this season to move fourth, seven points behind leaders AC Milan with a game in hand.

Champions Juventus battled to a 3-1 victory over 10-man Sassuolo to close the gap on the top three in Serie A on Sunday. Andrea Pirlo's side won their third straight league match for the first time this season to move fourth, seven points behind leaders AC Milan with a game in hand. "It was important to give continuity and win tonight, because otherwise the match played on Wednesday at San Siro was useless," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo whose side ended Milan's 27-match unbeaten run midweek. Sassuolo played the entire second half a man down after Pedro Obiang saw red for a dangerous challenge on Federico Chiesa. Defender Danilo put Juventus ahead in the 50th minute when he fired home his first goal of the season. But seven minutes later Sassuolo pulled level with Gregoire Defrel brilliantly finishing off a Hamed Junior Traore through ball. Substitute Aaron Ramsey gave Juventus the advantage again eight minutes from time when he tapped in a Gianluca Frabotta cross to claim his first goal of the campaign. Cristiano Ronaldo completed the scoring deep into injury time, rifling in his 15th league goal this term. "It was a painful match, badly managed after our advantage, but the important thing was winning even if we were a little disorganised," added Pirlo. It was a bruising clash for the reigning champions, who are chasing their 10th title in a row, as they lost forward Paulo Dybala and Weston McKennie to injury in the first half. Midfielder McKennie pulled up after 18 minutes with a muscle problem and was replaced by Welsh international Ramsey. Dybala was substituted three minutes before the break after receiving treatment for a knock to his left knee, with Swede Dejan Kulusevski coming on in his place. Juve are already without Alex Sandro, Juan Cuadrado and Matthijs de Ligt who tested positive for coronavirus. There was also a scare for forward Chiesa, who was left screaming in pain and clutching his left ankle following Obiang's tackle. But Alvaro Morata returned from injury, coming on for the final minutes of the game for his first outing in 2021. "McKennie had a slight muscular problem yesterday and he felt it again when he lifted his leg for a back-heel kick, but hopefully nothing serious," said Pirlo. "Dybala has a collateral ligament problem that we will evaluate better in the next few days." Sassuolo drop to seventh after their third loss in five games. Juventus play second-placed Inter Milan in the San Siro next weekend in what could be one of the defining clashes of the season.

'Painful' as Juve beat 10-man Sassuolo to move fourth in Serie A

Federico Chiesa scored a brace as Juventus inflicted a first league defeat this season on Serie A leaders AC Milan, ending their 27-match unbeaten run with a 3-1 win on Wednesday.

Stefano Pioli's side maintained their one-point advantage over city rivals Inter Milan who missed a chance to go top with a 2-1 loss at Sampdoria.

AC Milan had been unbeaten since before the coronavirus lockdown last March, with a run of 12 matches without defeat to complete last season where they finished sixth, and 15 games this campaign.

But Chiesa, who joined from Fiorentina last October, bagged his first brace for the champions, scoring on 18 and 62 minutes in the San Siro with Weston McKennie getting a third with quarter of an hour to go.

"This defeat hurts," said Pioli.

"If there is an opponent against whom we have suffered it is Juventus, who have won the Scudetto for nine years in a row.

"But understanding how bad you feel after a defeat will also help us grow."

The hosts, chasing their first 'Scudetto' since 2011, had been hit hours before kick-off with the news that forward Ante Rebic and midfielder Rade Krunic had tested positive for Covid-19.

The absence of the pair was a blow for the side already without key players including their injured top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic for an eighth league game.

Juventus pair Alex Sandro and Juan Cuadrado were also out with coronavirus as the champions moved up to fourth, seven points behind Milan, but having played a game less.

"I saw the spirit of a team that wants to lead and win," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo.&nbsp;

"This match was crucial for us."

Chiesa has come into his own for Pirlo's side who had been dependent on Cristiano Ronaldo's goals this campaign.

Paulo Dybala provided the assists for both Chiesa's goals.

Chiesa rattled the woodwork minutes before picking up a clever Dybala back-heel flick to finish off after 18 minutes.

Rafael Leao send through for Davide Calabria to grab the equaliser four minutes before the break to keep Milan's hopes alive.

But Dybala again teeded up Chiesa to rifle in the second before the pair were replaced by McKennie and Dejan Kulusevski.

Kulusevski provided the pull back for McKennie to seal the victory after 76 minutes.

<h2>- Inter miss out in Genoa -</h2>

Inter's eight-match winning streak came to an halt earlier under the rain in Genoa.

Alexis Sanchez missed an early penalty for Antonio Conte's side who were tripped up by goals from former Inter players Antonio Candreva and Keita Balde.

"I'm sorry because I think we deserved something more. Lady luck was not on our side today," said Conte after their second league defeat this season after Milan last October.

Inter's leading scorer Romelu Lukaku started on the bench as the forward recovers from a muscular problem.

Sanchez started in the Belgian's place but missed the chance to give the visitors an early advantage with Emil Audero saving a penalty.

But Candreva made no mistake from the spot after 22 minutes, sending Samir Handanovic the wrong way after Samp were awarded a penalty for a Nicolo Barella handball.

Keita Balde added a second after 38 minutes following good work from Mikkel Damsgaard, the Danish winger sending the Senegalese forward through to coolly finish.

Lukaku came off the bench with just over an hour gone, two minutes before Stefan de Vrij's header from a Marcelo Brozovic corner reduced the deficit for the visitors.

Third-placed Roma closed the gap on Inter to three points, with a 3-1 win at bottom side Crotone with Borja Mayoral scoring twice and Henrikh Mkhitaryan adding a third from the penalty spot.

Sassuolo beat Genoa 2-1 to move fifth ahead of Napoli who fell to a shock defeat by the same scoreline to 10-man Spezia, for their first loss in their newly-named Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.

"I don't know how it's possible to lose a game like this, we had many shots on goal, I had a dozen myself," said Napoli captain Lorenzo Insigne.

"I'm seeing a schizophrenic Napoli," blasted coach Gennaro Gattuso.

"It's not just bad luck, this season we're throwing away incredible matches. And that makes me furious."

Seventh-placed Atalanta beat Parma 3-0 to stay ahead of Lazio who got back winning 2-1 against Fiorentina.

Federico Chiesa scored a brace as Juventus inflicted a first league defeat this season on Serie A leaders AC Milan, ending their 27-match unbeaten run with a 3-1 win on Wednesday.

Federico Chiesa scored a brace as Juventus inflicted a first league defeat this season on Serie A leaders AC Milan, ending their 27-match unbeaten run with a 3-1 win on Wednesday. Stefano Pioli's side maintained their one-point advantage over city rivals Inter Milan who missed a chance to go top with a 2-1 loss at Sampdoria. AC Milan had been unbeaten since before the coronavirus lockdown last March, with a run of 12 matches without defeat to complete last season where they finished sixth, and 15 games this campaign. But Chiesa, who joined from Fiorentina last October, bagged his first brace for the champions, scoring on 18 and 62 minutes in the San Siro with Weston McKennie getting a third with quarter of an hour to go. "This defeat hurts," said Pioli. "If there is an opponent against whom we have suffered it is Juventus, who have won the Scudetto for nine years in a row. "But understanding how bad you feel after a defeat will also help us grow." The hosts, chasing their first 'Scudetto' since 2011, had been hit hours before kick-off with the news that forward Ante Rebic and midfielder Rade Krunic had tested positive for Covid-19. The absence of the pair was a blow for the side already without key players including their injured top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic for an eighth league game. Juventus pair Alex Sandro and Juan Cuadrado were also out with coronavirus as the champions moved up to fourth, seven points behind Milan, but having played a game less. "I saw the spirit of a team that wants to lead and win," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo. "This match was crucial for us." Chiesa has come into his own for Pirlo's side who had been dependent on Cristiano Ronaldo's goals this campaign. Paulo Dybala provided the assists for both Chiesa's goals. Chiesa rattled the woodwork minutes before picking up a clever Dybala back-heel flick to finish off after 18 minutes. Rafael Leao send through for Davide Calabria to grab the equaliser four minutes before the break to keep Milan's hopes alive. But Dybala again teeded up Chiesa to rifle in the second before the pair were replaced by McKennie and Dejan Kulusevski. Kulusevski provided the pull back for McKennie to seal the victory after 76 minutes. - Inter miss out in Genoa - Inter's eight-match winning streak came to an halt earlier under the rain in Genoa. Alexis Sanchez missed an early penalty for Antonio Conte's side who were tripped up by goals from former Inter players Antonio Candreva and Keita Balde. "I'm sorry because I think we deserved something more. Lady luck was not on our side today," said Conte after their second league defeat this season after Milan last October. Inter's leading scorer Romelu Lukaku started on the bench as the forward recovers from a muscular problem. Sanchez started in the Belgian's place but missed the chance to give the visitors an early advantage with Emil Audero saving a penalty. But Candreva made no mistake from the spot after 22 minutes, sending Samir Handanovic the wrong way after Samp were awarded a penalty for a Nicolo Barella handball. Keita Balde added a second after 38 minutes following good work from Mikkel Damsgaard, the Danish winger sending the Senegalese forward through to coolly finish. Lukaku came off the bench with just over an hour gone, two minutes before Stefan de Vrij's header from a Marcelo Brozovic corner reduced the deficit for the visitors. Third-placed Roma closed the gap on Inter to three points, with a 3-1 win at bottom side Crotone with Borja Mayoral scoring twice and Henrikh Mkhitaryan adding a third from the penalty spot. Sassuolo beat Genoa 2-1 to move fifth ahead of Napoli who fell to a shock defeat by the same scoreline to 10-man Spezia, for their first loss in their newly-named Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. "I don't know how it's possible to lose a game like this, we had many shots on goal, I had a dozen myself," said Napoli captain Lorenzo Insigne. "I'm seeing a schizophrenic Napoli," blasted coach Gennaro Gattuso. "It's not just bad luck, this season we're throwing away incredible matches. And that makes me furious." Seventh-placed Atalanta beat Parma 3-0 to stay ahead of Lazio who got back winning 2-1 against Fiorentina.

Juventus end AC Milan's 27-game unbeaten run in Serie A

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A.

Ronaldo opened the scoring for Juventus in the first-half as he unleashed a superb strike to leave Udinese goalkeeper Juan Musso helpless. Ronaldo then completed his brace in the second half as Juventus returned back to winning ways in the Allianz Stadium.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, with the brace, completed his 758 goals in his splendid career - moving one ahead of Pele's all-time list.

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Now, only Slavia Prague legend Josef Bican is ahead of Ronaldo with as many as 805 goals in 530 matches, scored between 1931 and 1955.

Fans hailed Ronaldo as one of the greatest players of all-time. Ronaldo has accumulated a whopping 450 goals during his nine-year stay at Real Madrid while completing his 700th career goal in 2019.

The former Manchester United forward's super-agent, Jorge Mendes, has always been vocal about Ronaldo's on-field achievement and had predicted that the Portuguese would go onto shatter Pele's record to cement his name even more in football history.

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The 54-year-old Portuguese football agent told Sky Sports: "His numbers don't lie and light up the overwhelming way Cristiano Ronaldo shatters records, which elevate him to the category of best player in the history of football, with a big difference compared to the second [best] for all he achieved with the different clubs he represented, whether in England, Spain or now in Italy and also with the Portuguese national team."

Mendes added: "Cristiano has reached the remarkable milestone of 700 goals, but I have no doubt that he'll surpass Pele as the best scorer in football history, and he'll do it with Juventus."

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A. Ronaldo opened the scoring for Juventus in the first-half as he unleashed a superb strike to leave Udinese goalkeeper Juan Musso helpless. Ronaldo then completed his brace in the second half as Juventus returned back to winning ways in the Allianz Stadium. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, with the brace, completed his 758 goals in his splendid career - moving one ahead of Pele's all-time list. ALSO READ: Barca triumph as Messi makes 500th Liga appearance Now, only Slavia Prague legend Josef Bican is ahead of Ronaldo with as many as 805 goals in 530 matches, scored between 1931 and 1955. Fans hailed Ronaldo as one of the greatest players of all-time. Ronaldo has accumulated a whopping 450 goals during his nine-year stay at Real Madrid while completing his 700th career goal in 2019. The former Manchester United forward's super-agent, Jorge Mendes, has always been vocal about Ronaldo's on-field achievement and had predicted that the Portuguese would go onto shatter Pele's record to cement his name even more in football history. ALSO READ: Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter The 54-year-old Portuguese football agent told Sky Sports: "His numbers don't lie and light up the overwhelming way Cristiano Ronaldo shatters records, which elevate him to the category of best player in the history of football, with a big difference compared to the second [best] for all he achieved with the different clubs he represented, whether in England, Spain or now in Italy and also with the Portuguese national team." Mendes added: "Cristiano has reached the remarkable milestone of 700 goals, but I have no doubt that he'll surpass Pele as the best scorer in football history, and he'll do it with Juventus."

Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's record, climbs second in all-time goal-scoring charts

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place.

The Milan clubs are top of the Italian league with Juventus 10 points adrift of the summit having played a game less.

Leaders AC Milan stayed one point ahead of Inter with a 2-0 win over midtable Benevento despite playing an hour a man down.

City rivals Inter crushed lowly Crotone 6-2 with Lautaro Martinez bagging his first hat-trick for the club.

But Milan restored their advantage thanks to a Franck Kessie penalty on 15 minutes and Rafael Leao's terrific curling strike from a tight angle shortly after half-time.

Sandro Tonali's sending off after 33 minutes for a high tackle on Artur Ionita did not hold back Stefano Pioli's side.

Gianluigi Donnarumma was solid in the Milan goal while Gianluca Caprari dragged a penalty wide on the hour.

"We don't let ourselves be put under pressure by the results of the opponents," said Pioli whose side are unbeaten in 27 league games going back to March.

"We're ambitious, we're not hiding it and we aim to win the next match as well against Juventus (on Wednesday)."

Ronaldo once again proved decisive for Juventus scoring a goal in each half to bring his league-leading tally to 14 this campaign and teeing up Federico Chiesa after the break.

Paulo Dybala added the fourth deep into injury time as Andrea Pirlo's side moved on from their shock 3-0 loss to Fiorentina last time out.

"It wasn't the best Juventus because we were coming off a bad defeat, we were a bit fearful at the beginning," said Pirlo.

"Slowly we grew and in the second half we did better. It's a delicate moment but we have to have confidence in what we can achieve and the determination to get there."

At the San Siro, Martinez and Romelu Lukaku combined to devastating effect for Inter who have now won eight league games in a row.

The strike duo were involved in five goals although midfielder Arturo Vidal was hauled off at half-time after conceding a penalty in a woeful display.

Antonio Conte's side had been pegged back 2-2 at the break with Niccolo Zanellato scoring first with a 12th-minute header for the rock bottom Calabrians with the worst attack in the league.

But Martinez picked up a Lukaku cross to pull the hosts level eight minutes later.

Martinez had a role in Inter's second just after half an hour when Crotone defender Luca Marrone turned the ball into his own net under pressure from the Argentina forward.

Vladimir Golemic put the sides level six minutes later after Vidal fouled Arkadiusz Reca, with a furious Conte replacing the Chilean with Stefano Sensi at the break.

<h2>- Roma stay third -</h2>

Martinez restored the lead for Inter before the hour connecting with a Marcelo Brozovic through ball following a Lukaku back-heel, and headed in his third with 12 minutes to go off a rebound.

Lukaku blasted in his 50th goal for Inter after 64 minutes but limped off after taking a knock to his right thigh 10 minutes later, before Achraf Hakimi rounded out the win with three minutes to go.

"There is great desire and it shows," said Conte as Inter target their first Serie A title since 2010 with their European campaign over this season.

Roma held third place, six points behind Inter, with captain Edin Dzeko scoring with a quarter of an hour to go in a 1-0 win in the rain over former Roma coach Claudio Ranieri's Sampdoria.&nbsp;

The capital side are ahead of Napoli who swept past Cagliari 4-1 with Piotr Zielinski scoring twice and Hirving Lozano and Lorenzo Insigne also on target late, the latter from the penalty spot.

In a clash of European rivals, Atalanta whipped Sassuolo 5-1 with Colombian Duvan Zapata scoring twice.

The Bergamo side were again playing without captain Papu Gomez who has fallen out with coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

Zapata and Matteo Pessina scored in the first half with the Colombian adding a second just after the break with Robin Gosens and Luis Muriel compounding the rout before Vlad Chiriches pulled a goal back.

Sassuolo are sixth one point ahead of Atalanta who have played a game less.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place. The Milan clubs are top of the Italian league with Juventus 10 points adrift of the summit having played a game less. Leaders AC Milan stayed one point ahead of Inter with a 2-0 win over midtable Benevento despite playing an hour a man down. City rivals Inter crushed lowly Crotone 6-2 with Lautaro Martinez bagging his first hat-trick for the club. But Milan restored their advantage thanks to a Franck Kessie penalty on 15 minutes and Rafael Leao's terrific curling strike from a tight angle shortly after half-time. Sandro Tonali's sending off after 33 minutes for a high tackle on Artur Ionita did not hold back Stefano Pioli's side. Gianluigi Donnarumma was solid in the Milan goal while Gianluca Caprari dragged a penalty wide on the hour. "We don't let ourselves be put under pressure by the results of the opponents," said Pioli whose side are unbeaten in 27 league games going back to March. "We're ambitious, we're not hiding it and we aim to win the next match as well against Juventus (on Wednesday)." Ronaldo once again proved decisive for Juventus scoring a goal in each half to bring his league-leading tally to 14 this campaign and teeing up Federico Chiesa after the break. Paulo Dybala added the fourth deep into injury time as Andrea Pirlo's side moved on from their shock 3-0 loss to Fiorentina last time out. "It wasn't the best Juventus because we were coming off a bad defeat, we were a bit fearful at the beginning," said Pirlo. "Slowly we grew and in the second half we did better. It's a delicate moment but we have to have confidence in what we can achieve and the determination to get there." At the San Siro, Martinez and Romelu Lukaku combined to devastating effect for Inter who have now won eight league games in a row. The strike duo were involved in five goals although midfielder Arturo Vidal was hauled off at half-time after conceding a penalty in a woeful display. Antonio Conte's side had been pegged back 2-2 at the break with Niccolo Zanellato scoring first with a 12th-minute header for the rock bottom Calabrians with the worst attack in the league. But Martinez picked up a Lukaku cross to pull the hosts level eight minutes later. Martinez had a role in Inter's second just after half an hour when Crotone defender Luca Marrone turned the ball into his own net under pressure from the Argentina forward. Vladimir Golemic put the sides level six minutes later after Vidal fouled Arkadiusz Reca, with a furious Conte replacing the Chilean with Stefano Sensi at the break. - Roma stay third - Martinez restored the lead for Inter before the hour connecting with a Marcelo Brozovic through ball following a Lukaku back-heel, and headed in his third with 12 minutes to go off a rebound. Lukaku blasted in his 50th goal for Inter after 64 minutes but limped off after taking a knock to his right thigh 10 minutes later, before Achraf Hakimi rounded out the win with three minutes to go. "There is great desire and it shows," said Conte as Inter target their first Serie A title since 2010 with their European campaign over this season. Roma held third place, six points behind Inter, with captain Edin Dzeko scoring with a quarter of an hour to go in a 1-0 win in the rain over former Roma coach Claudio Ranieri's Sampdoria. The capital side are ahead of Napoli who swept past Cagliari 4-1 with Piotr Zielinski scoring twice and Hirving Lozano and Lorenzo Insigne also on target late, the latter from the penalty spot. In a clash of European rivals, Atalanta whipped Sassuolo 5-1 with Colombian Duvan Zapata scoring twice. The Bergamo side were again playing without captain Papu Gomez who has fallen out with coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Zapata and Matteo Pessina scored in the first half with the Colombian adding a second just after the break with Robin Gosens and Luis Muriel compounding the rout before Vlad Chiriches pulled a goal back. Sassuolo are sixth one point ahead of Atalanta who have played a game less.

Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter

Andrea Pirlo will be hoping that the turn of the year can inject fresh impetus into his Juventus side when they return to action against Udinese on Sunday with a calamitous end to 2020 fresh in the memory. 
 
The Turin club’s nine-year dominance of Serie A is under threat this season, as the Italian champions must fight their way back into title contention after dropping six points in one day before the winter break. 
 
In the final round of action before Italy’s top division stopped for 10 days, Juventus fell to their first league defeat under Pirlo as struggling Fiorentina stormed to a shock 3-0 win in Turin. 
 
To make matters worse, the defeat came hours after news broke that Napoli had won an appeal against the decision to hand them a one-point deduction and award Juve a 3-0 victory for failing to turn up for their Serie A fixture in Turin in October. 
 
Napoli claimed that they were instructed by their local health authority to stay at home after two squad members had tested positive for COVID-19. 
 
But their appeals to Serie A’s disciplinary tribunal and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) were unsuccessful before the highest tribunal in Italian sport, the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) Guarantee Board, ordered that the match be played later in the season. 
 
Juventus therefore lost three points from their league tally, and the subsequent combination of defeat by Fiorentina and leaders AC Milan`s late win away to Lazio suddenly left the champions down in sixth place and 10 points off top – having started the day in third and four points from first place. 
 
This sequence of events has left Pirlo and his side with a mountain to climb if they are to retain the domestic crown they`ve had an unshakeable grip on for almost a decade. 
 
Juventus` performance against Fiorentina also troubled the rookie coach, who has had a season of ups and downs since taking on his first managerial job by replacing Maurizio Sarri last year. 
 
"The attitude was wrong," he complained after the match. "We were thinking about the holidays already." 
 
Defender Leonardo Bonucci apologised to fans on social media, saying it was "the worst Juventus of the season". 
 
There will be little room for error when mid-table Udinese visit the Allianz Stadium on Sunday, as it is Juventus’ final test before they travel to San Siro to face unbeaten Milan on Wednesday. 
 
The league leaders travel to Benevento on Sunday, while second-placed Inter Milan, one point below them, host Crotone in the lunchtime kick-off. 
 
Third-placed AS Roma host Claudio Ranieri’s Sampdoria, while surprise package Sassuolo in fourth will welcome Atalanta to the Mapei Stadium in an intriguing meeting of two entertaining teams.

Andrea Pirlo will be hoping that the turn of the year can inject fresh impetus into his Juventus side when they return to action against Udinese on Sunday with a calamitous end to 2020 fresh in the memory.

Andrea Pirlo will be hoping that the turn of the year can inject fresh impetus into his Juventus side when they return to action against Udinese on Sunday with a calamitous end to 2020 fresh in the memory. The Turin club’s nine-year dominance of Serie A is under threat this season, as the Italian champions must fight their way back into title contention after dropping six points in one day before the winter break. In the final round of action before Italy’s top division stopped for 10 days, Juventus fell to their first league defeat under Pirlo as struggling Fiorentina stormed to a shock 3-0 win in Turin. To make matters worse, the defeat came hours after news broke that Napoli had won an appeal against the decision to hand them a one-point deduction and award Juve a 3-0 victory for failing to turn up for their Serie A fixture in Turin in October. Napoli claimed that they were instructed by their local health authority to stay at home after two squad members had tested positive for COVID-19. But their appeals to Serie A’s disciplinary tribunal and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) were unsuccessful before the highest tribunal in Italian sport, the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) Guarantee Board, ordered that the match be played later in the season. Juventus therefore lost three points from their league tally, and the subsequent combination of defeat by Fiorentina and leaders AC Milan`s late win away to Lazio suddenly left the champions down in sixth place and 10 points off top – having started the day in third and four points from first place. This sequence of events has left Pirlo and his side with a mountain to climb if they are to retain the domestic crown they`ve had an unshakeable grip on for almost a decade. Juventus` performance against Fiorentina also troubled the rookie coach, who has had a season of ups and downs since taking on his first managerial job by replacing Maurizio Sarri last year. "The attitude was wrong," he complained after the match. "We were thinking about the holidays already." Defender Leonardo Bonucci apologised to fans on social media, saying it was "the worst Juventus of the season". There will be little room for error when mid-table Udinese visit the Allianz Stadium on Sunday, as it is Juventus’ final test before they travel to San Siro to face unbeaten Milan on Wednesday. The league leaders travel to Benevento on Sunday, while second-placed Inter Milan, one point below them, host Crotone in the lunchtime kick-off. Third-placed AS Roma host Claudio Ranieri’s Sampdoria, while surprise package Sassuolo in fourth will welcome Atalanta to the Mapei Stadium in an intriguing meeting of two entertaining teams.

Juventus aim to get back on course after disastrous end to 2020

Romelu Lukaku scored from the penalty spot as Inter Milan battled past title rivals Napoli 1-0 on Wednesday to move one point behind Serie A leaders and city rivals AC Milan who were held at Genoa.

Defending champions Juventus sit three points behind Inter after Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty in a 1-1 home draw with Atalanta.

Napoli -- who played the final quarter of an hour a man down after captain Lorenzo Insigne was sent off -- drop to fourth, a further point adrift.

Insigne saw red for arguing with the referee after goalkeeper David Ospina fouled Inter's Matteo Darmian to concede the crucial spot-kick.

"Only in Italy players are thrown out for this stuff," fumed Napoli coach Gennaro Gattuso, blasting "a dubious penalty".

Napoli also saw club record scorer Dries Mertens limp off with an ankle injury in the first half.

Lukaku stepped up to slot in on 73 minutes for his 10th league goal this season, joining Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the top of the Serie A goalscoring chart.

Inter could also thank goalkeeper Samir Handanovic&nbsp;for their clean sheet, denying Insigne and Giovanni Di Lorenzo late on.

For Antonio Conte's Inter it was a fifth consecutive league win as they target a first Scudetto since 2010, with their European hopes now over.

"It was a painful victory that can do us good," said Conte.&nbsp;"These are three important points because against a rival and a great team like Napoli they are worth double."

AC Milan, playing a fourth consecutive league game without the injured Ibrahimovic, came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw as Mattia Destro scored a double for Genoa.

The Italian striker tapped in a rebound after Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Eldor Shomurodov just after the break.

Five minutes later, Davide Calabria's long-range effort pulled Milan level before Destro headed in a second on the hour.

But French defender Pierre Kalulu nodded in from close range to rescue a second consecutive draw for Milan, who stay unbeaten in Serie A since March and are looking to deny Juventus a 10th straight league triumph this season.

"We had six players out and had to grit our teeth but those who played proved to be up to par," said coach Stefano Pioli.&nbsp;

"Our club has not been in the Champions League for many years and that is our goal."

&nbsp;

<h2>- Sixth Juventus stalemate -</h2>

&nbsp;

In Turin, unbeaten Juventus were held for the sixth time in Serie A this term.

Federico Chiesa curled in a powerful shot to put Juventus ahead before the half-hour mark.

But Atalanta hit back with Remo Freuler grabbing the equaliser 12 minutes into the second half, shortly after captain Papu Gomez came off the bench.

The build-up to the game had been overshadowed by tensions between coach Gian Piero Gasperini and Gomez, left out of their last two league games amid speculation he could leave the Bergamo club in January.

Ronaldo, who had fired over the target in the fifth minute, had a rare penalty miss after an hour following a Hans Hateboer foul on Chiesa.

The Portuguese striker's weak effort was easily saved by Atalanta keeper Pierluigi Gollini.

Spaniard Alvaro Morata had missed a golden chance after 12 minutes, sending a weak back-heel flick wide in front of an open goal.

At the other end of the pitch, Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny saved a Cristian Romero header with a quarter of an hour to go.

"You have to take these games home," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo.

"We had many opportunities and we weren't able to close it. When you leave the game in the balance anything can happen."

Atalanta, who also held Juventus the last time they played in Turin last July, are eighth, 10 points behind AC Milan, after a slow start to the campaign.

"It's a great result," said Gasperini. "We were very good, at one point we were convinced of winning it.&nbsp;

"We played with personality against a team that are one of the favourites for the Scudetto."

Fifth-placed Sassuolo drew 1-1 at Fiorentina, whose winless run stretched to seven games.

Romelu Lukaku scored from the penalty spot as Inter Milan battled past title rivals Napoli 1-0 on Wednesday to move one point behind Serie A leaders and city rivals AC Milan who were held at Genoa.

Romelu Lukaku scored from the penalty spot as Inter Milan battled past title rivals Napoli 1-0 on Wednesday to move one point behind Serie A leaders and city rivals AC Milan who were held at Genoa. Defending champions Juventus sit three points behind Inter after Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty in a 1-1 home draw with Atalanta. Napoli -- who played the final quarter of an hour a man down after captain Lorenzo Insigne was sent off -- drop to fourth, a further point adrift. Insigne saw red for arguing with the referee after goalkeeper David Ospina fouled Inter's Matteo Darmian to concede the crucial spot-kick. "Only in Italy players are thrown out for this stuff," fumed Napoli coach Gennaro Gattuso, blasting "a dubious penalty". Napoli also saw club record scorer Dries Mertens limp off with an ankle injury in the first half. Lukaku stepped up to slot in on 73 minutes for his 10th league goal this season, joining Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the top of the Serie A goalscoring chart. Inter could also thank goalkeeper Samir Handanovic for their clean sheet, denying Insigne and Giovanni Di Lorenzo late on. For Antonio Conte's Inter it was a fifth consecutive league win as they target a first Scudetto since 2010, with their European hopes now over. "It was a painful victory that can do us good," said Conte. "These are three important points because against a rival and a great team like Napoli they are worth double." AC Milan, playing a fourth consecutive league game without the injured Ibrahimovic, came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw as Mattia Destro scored a double for Genoa. The Italian striker tapped in a rebound after Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Eldor Shomurodov just after the break. Five minutes later, Davide Calabria's long-range effort pulled Milan level before Destro headed in a second on the hour. But French defender Pierre Kalulu nodded in from close range to rescue a second consecutive draw for Milan, who stay unbeaten in Serie A since March and are looking to deny Juventus a 10th straight league triumph this season. "We had six players out and had to grit our teeth but those who played proved to be up to par," said coach Stefano Pioli. "Our club has not been in the Champions League for many years and that is our goal." - Sixth Juventus stalemate - In Turin, unbeaten Juventus were held for the sixth time in Serie A this term. Federico Chiesa curled in a powerful shot to put Juventus ahead before the half-hour mark. But Atalanta hit back with Remo Freuler grabbing the equaliser 12 minutes into the second half, shortly after captain Papu Gomez came off the bench. The build-up to the game had been overshadowed by tensions between coach Gian Piero Gasperini and Gomez, left out of their last two league games amid speculation he could leave the Bergamo club in January. Ronaldo, who had fired over the target in the fifth minute, had a rare penalty miss after an hour following a Hans Hateboer foul on Chiesa. The Portuguese striker's weak effort was easily saved by Atalanta keeper Pierluigi Gollini. Spaniard Alvaro Morata had missed a golden chance after 12 minutes, sending a weak back-heel flick wide in front of an open goal. At the other end of the pitch, Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny saved a Cristian Romero header with a quarter of an hour to go. "You have to take these games home," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo. "We had many opportunities and we weren't able to close it. When you leave the game in the balance anything can happen." Atalanta, who also held Juventus the last time they played in Turin last July, are eighth, 10 points behind AC Milan, after a slow start to the campaign. "It's a great result," said Gasperini. "We were very good, at one point we were convinced of winning it. "We played with personality against a team that are one of the favourites for the Scudetto." Fifth-placed Sassuolo drew 1-1 at Fiorentina, whose winless run stretched to seven games.

Inter close gap on leaders AC Milan, Ronaldo penalty miss stalls Juve

Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said Monday the Italian champions were awaiting an answer from Argentina forward Paulo Dybala on a contract offer which would make him "among the 20 highest paid footballers in Europe".

Dybala scored his first Serie A goal in five months on Sunday during a 3-1 win over Genoa, telling journalists afterwards he had received no news on an extension to his current deal which expires in June 2022.

"So many things that aren't true have been said in relation to my contract," he said.

Agnelli insisted on Monday the 27-year-old, who suffered with coronavirus for six weeks earlier this year, "has already received an offer that places him among the 20 highest paid in Europe".

"We are calmly awaiting an answer," Agnelli said during an awards ceremony in Turin.

"The positive news is the return to scoring. Paulo had a tough time after the coronavirus, with a slow recovery.

"I was delighted to hear his declaration of love for Juve, it's reciprocated. We see Paulo as a future captain of the team. Already now he often wears the armband.

"He knows he has the offer, we are waiting serenely for an answer."

Dybala joined Juventus from Palermo in 2015 and has scored 97 goals for the club, winning eight major trophies, including five Serie A titles.

He has often been linked with a move away in recent months and was reportedly close to signing for Premier League sides Manchester United and Tottenham last year.

"We are also waiting for one (response) on the pitch, his ambition is to be among the top five (players) in the world, and we want to support him. He is still not there and he knows this," added Agnelli.

Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said Monday the Italian champions were awaiting an answer from Argentina forward Paulo Dybala on a contract offer which would make him "among the 20 highest paid footballers in Europe".

Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said Monday the Italian champions were awaiting an answer from Argentina forward Paulo Dybala on a contract offer which would make him "among the 20 highest paid footballers in Europe". Dybala scored his first Serie A goal in five months on Sunday during a 3-1 win over Genoa, telling journalists afterwards he had received no news on an extension to his current deal which expires in June 2022. "So many things that aren't true have been said in relation to my contract," he said. Agnelli insisted on Monday the 27-year-old, who suffered with coronavirus for six weeks earlier this year, "has already received an offer that places him among the 20 highest paid in Europe". "We are calmly awaiting an answer," Agnelli said during an awards ceremony in Turin. "The positive news is the return to scoring. Paulo had a tough time after the coronavirus, with a slow recovery. "I was delighted to hear his declaration of love for Juve, it's reciprocated. We see Paulo as a future captain of the team. Already now he often wears the armband. "He knows he has the offer, we are waiting serenely for an answer." Dybala joined Juventus from Palermo in 2015 and has scored 97 goals for the club, winning eight major trophies, including five Serie A titles. He has often been linked with a move away in recent months and was reportedly close to signing for Premier League sides Manchester United and Tottenham last year. "We are also waiting for one (response) on the pitch, his ambition is to be among the top five (players) in the world, and we want to support him. He is still not there and he knows this," added Agnelli.

Juve awaiting Dybala response on contract offer, says Agnelli

Italian giants Juventus had the last laugh against Barcelona on the pitch and in the social media after Ronaldo's brace helped them beat the Catalan club 3-0 at Camp Nuo on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Juventus wasted no time in trolling Barcelona after the Spanish club took a cheeky swipe at them in October when Barcelona defeated the Italian club in Turin. Messi scored one of the two goals in the match, after which the club took to Twitter to share their skipper's photo and wrote: "We are glad you were able to see the (goat) on your pitch, @juventusfcen!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We are glad you were able to see the 🐐 on your pitch, <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@juventusfcen</a>! 😘 <a href="https://t.co/yh74wh0lNJ">pic.twitter.com/yh74wh0lNJ</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1321573012894896133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Juventus replied at the time with a simple message: "You probably looked it up in the wrong dictionary. We'll bring you the right one at Camp Nou."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
You probably looked it up in the wrong dictionary. We'll bring you the right one at Camp Nou 🔍📖
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1321589740542562304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Well, Ronaldo missed the previous fixture after he was tested for COVID-19. However, he returned for the reverse fixture at Camp Nou. The Portuguese star was booed as he landed into Barcelona. Ronaldo went on to score two crucial penalties to but the Italian side at the front.&nbsp;

After Ronaldo's performance, Juventus took to Twitter and wrote: "We kept our word: we brought it!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We kept our word: we brought it! 📖🐐🔥 <a href="https://t.co/EMOPTzYEFx">https://t.co/EMOPTzYEFx</a> <a href="https://t.co/mqr5aKA5cC">pic.twitter.com/mqr5aKA5cC</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1336435446050643968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Last time Ronaldo and Messi met on the pitch was back in 2018. The Portuguese superstar took to Twitter after the match to share his delight in playing at the Camp Nou again and "against one of the best teams I ever faced."

"Always great to return to Spain and to Catalunya, always hard to play in Camp Nou against one of the best teams I ever faced.

"Today we were a team of Champions [sic]! A true, strong and united family! Playing like this, we have nothing to fear until the end of the season... Let's go!"

Italian giants Juventus had the last laugh against Barcelona on the pitch and in the social media after Ronaldo's brace helped them beat the Catalan club 3-0 at Camp Nuo on Tuesday.

Italian giants Juventus had the last laugh against Barcelona on the pitch and in the social media after Ronaldo's brace helped them beat the Catalan club 3-0 at Camp Nuo on Tuesday. Juventus wasted no time in trolling Barcelona after the Spanish club took a cheeky swipe at them in October when Barcelona defeated the Italian club in Turin. Messi scored one of the two goals in the match, after which the club took to Twitter to share their skipper's photo and wrote: "We are glad you were able to see the (goat) on your pitch, @juventusfcen!" We are glad you were able to see the 🐐 on your pitch, @juventusfcen! 😘 pic.twitter.com/yh74wh0lNJ — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 28, 2020 × Juventus replied at the time with a simple message: "You probably looked it up in the wrong dictionary. We'll bring you the right one at Camp Nou." You probably looked it up in the wrong dictionary. We'll bring you the right one at Camp Nou 🔍📖 — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) October 28, 2020 × Well, Ronaldo missed the previous fixture after he was tested for COVID-19. However, he returned for the reverse fixture at Camp Nou. The Portuguese star was booed as he landed into Barcelona. Ronaldo went on to score two crucial penalties to but the Italian side at the front. After Ronaldo's performance, Juventus took to Twitter and wrote: "We kept our word: we brought it!" We kept our word: we brought it! 📖🐐🔥 https://t.co/EMOPTzYEFx pic.twitter.com/mqr5aKA5cC — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) December 8, 2020 × Last time Ronaldo and Messi met on the pitch was back in 2018. The Portuguese superstar took to Twitter after the match to share his delight in playing at the Camp Nou again and "against one of the best teams I ever faced." "Always great to return to Spain and to Catalunya, always hard to play in Camp Nou against one of the best teams I ever faced. "Today we were a team of Champions [sic]! A true, strong and united family! Playing like this, we have nothing to fear until the end of the season... Let's go!"

'We kept our word': Juventus bring back Twitter banter after Messi vs Ronaldo battle

Juventus, Chelsea and Sevilla all claimed last-gasp wins as they qualified for the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, while Martin Braithwaite grabbed a double in Barcelona's 4-0 victory at Dynamo Kiev as they also secured a place in the knockout rounds.

They are the first teams to make it out of the group stage, doing so with two games to spare, on a night which saw Erling Braut Haaland, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes all get among the goals.

There was no Lionel Messi for Barcelona, with the Argentine rested for the trip to Ukraine, but Ronald Koeman's side got the job done to make it four wins from four in Group G.

All the goals came in the second half, with Sergino Dest opening the scoring before Danish striker Braithwaite added another and then converted a penalty to make it 3-0.

On as a substitute, Antoine Griezmann wrapped up the win on the night young centre-back Oscar Mingueza, Brazilian midfielder Matheus Fernandes and teenage American winger Konrad de la Fuente were all blooded in the first team.

"We've achieved our objective," said Koeman. "We looked hungry and scored four goals. Important players were able to rest and the youngsters deserved their minutes."&nbsp;

<h2>- Morata, Giroud strike late -</h2>

Juventus joined Barcelona in qualifying from Group G but the Italian champions needed a stoppage-time header by substitute Alvaro Morata to beat Ferencvaros 2-1 in Turin and seal their progress.

Albanian international Myrto Uzuni put the Hungarians ahead but Ronaldo drilled in the equaliser before half-time, meaning he has scored in 15 consecutive Champions League seasons.

Chelsea are through from Group E after edging Rennes 2-1 in France, with Olivier Giroud coming off the bench to head in an injury-time winner. Serhou Guirassy had cancelled out Callum Hudson-Odoi's breakaway opener.

Last season's Europa League winners Sevilla will not get to defend their trophy as they advanced to the last 16 of Europe's elite club competition and did so with a 2-1 win over Krasnodar in Russia, in a rare game played before a sizeable crowd.

Ivan Rakitic's drilled strike put the Spaniards in front only for the Brazilian Wanderson to equalise, but Munir El Haddadi won it for Sevilla five minutes into added time.

Sevilla and Chelsea are level on 10 points but Frank Lampard's side go to Spain next week, when the winner will secure top spot.

Manchester United are in pole position in Group H after a first-half Fernandes brace set them on their way to a 4-1 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir that made up for a 2-1 defeat in Turkey last time out.

The opener by Fernandes was a thunderous strike from outside the box, while the second was a tap-in after a horrible error by Mert Gunok in the away goal.

Marcus Rashford added a penalty, but there was a fightback from the away side, with Deniz Turuc's free-kick crossing the line before David de Gea could claw it away.

Edin Visca crashed a shot off the bar, but Daniel James made sure of the victory on the counter-attack.

"It's a Champions League night at Old Trafford, you'd expect them to enjoy themselves," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said of his team. "We scored some very nice goals, I'm pleased."

<h2>- Haaland's frightening record -</h2>

Solskjaer's side are three points clear of both Paris Saint-Germain and RB Leipzig, after an early Neymar penalty gave the French side a 1-0 win over their German visitors.

PSG go to Old Trafford next week.

Borussia Dortmund need just one more point to qualify from Group F following a 3-0 win over Club Brugge as the prolific Haaland netted twice either side of a Jadon Sancho free-kick in Germany.

Haaland has 16 goals for the season, and has now scored 16 Champions League goals in just 12 appearances -- Messi had two goals and Ronaldo none after the same number of appearances.

"Erling is a fantastic player. He works hard on and off the pitch and he deserves everything that's coming his way," said Sancho.

In the group's other game Ciro Immobile was on target twice, including from a penalty, as Lazio beat Zenit Saint-Petersburg 3-1 in Rome, a result which eliminated the Russians. Marco Parolo also netted for Lazio, with Artem Dzyuba scoring for Zenit.

Juventus, Chelsea and Sevilla all claimed last-gasp wins as they qualified for the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, while Martin Braithwaite grabbed a double in Barcelona's 4-0 victory at Dynamo Kiev as they also secured a place in the knockout rounds.

Juventus, Chelsea and Sevilla all claimed last-gasp wins as they qualified for the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, while Martin Braithwaite grabbed a double in Barcelona's 4-0 victory at Dynamo Kiev as they also secured a place in the knockout rounds. They are the first teams to make it out of the group stage, doing so with two games to spare, on a night which saw Erling Braut Haaland, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes all get among the goals. There was no Lionel Messi for Barcelona, with the Argentine rested for the trip to Ukraine, but Ronald Koeman's side got the job done to make it four wins from four in Group G. All the goals came in the second half, with Sergino Dest opening the scoring before Danish striker Braithwaite added another and then converted a penalty to make it 3-0. On as a substitute, Antoine Griezmann wrapped up the win on the night young centre-back Oscar Mingueza, Brazilian midfielder Matheus Fernandes and teenage American winger Konrad de la Fuente were all blooded in the first team. "We've achieved our objective," said Koeman. "We looked hungry and scored four goals. Important players were able to rest and the youngsters deserved their minutes." - Morata, Giroud strike late - Juventus joined Barcelona in qualifying from Group G but the Italian champions needed a stoppage-time header by substitute Alvaro Morata to beat Ferencvaros 2-1 in Turin and seal their progress. Albanian international Myrto Uzuni put the Hungarians ahead but Ronaldo drilled in the equaliser before half-time, meaning he has scored in 15 consecutive Champions League seasons. Chelsea are through from Group E after edging Rennes 2-1 in France, with Olivier Giroud coming off the bench to head in an injury-time winner. Serhou Guirassy had cancelled out Callum Hudson-Odoi's breakaway opener. Last season's Europa League winners Sevilla will not get to defend their trophy as they advanced to the last 16 of Europe's elite club competition and did so with a 2-1 win over Krasnodar in Russia, in a rare game played before a sizeable crowd. Ivan Rakitic's drilled strike put the Spaniards in front only for the Brazilian Wanderson to equalise, but Munir El Haddadi won it for Sevilla five minutes into added time. Sevilla and Chelsea are level on 10 points but Frank Lampard's side go to Spain next week, when the winner will secure top spot. Manchester United are in pole position in Group H after a first-half Fernandes brace set them on their way to a 4-1 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir that made up for a 2-1 defeat in Turkey last time out. The opener by Fernandes was a thunderous strike from outside the box, while the second was a tap-in after a horrible error by Mert Gunok in the away goal. Marcus Rashford added a penalty, but there was a fightback from the away side, with Deniz Turuc's free-kick crossing the line before David de Gea could claw it away. Edin Visca crashed a shot off the bar, but Daniel James made sure of the victory on the counter-attack. "It's a Champions League night at Old Trafford, you'd expect them to enjoy themselves," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said of his team. "We scored some very nice goals, I'm pleased." - Haaland's frightening record - Solskjaer's side are three points clear of both Paris Saint-Germain and RB Leipzig, after an early Neymar penalty gave the French side a 1-0 win over their German visitors. PSG go to Old Trafford next week. Borussia Dortmund need just one more point to qualify from Group F following a 3-0 win over Club Brugge as the prolific Haaland netted twice either side of a Jadon Sancho free-kick in Germany. Haaland has 16 goals for the season, and has now scored 16 Champions League goals in just 12 appearances -- Messi had two goals and Ronaldo none after the same number of appearances. "Erling is a fantastic player. He works hard on and off the pitch and he deserves everything that's coming his way," said Sancho. In the group's other game Ciro Immobile was on target twice, including from a penalty, as Lazio beat Zenit Saint-Petersburg 3-1 in Rome, a result which eliminated the Russians. Marco Parolo also netted for Lazio, with Artem Dzyuba scoring for Zenit.

Barcelona, Juventus join Chelsea and Sevilla in Champions League last 16

Juve boss Andrea Pirlo confirmed that star Cristiano Ronaldo suffered an injury by the end of 1-1 draw against Lazio.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-reacts-to-manchester-united-criticism-says-people-dont-want-us-to-do-well-341728" hreflang="en">Harry Maguire reacts to Manchester United criticism</a>

In the final 15 minutes, Ronaldo collided with Spanish midfielder Luis Alberto after which he was seen limping off the pitch.&nbsp;

During the post-match conference, Pirlo said: "[Cristiano] Ronaldo is a key player not only for us but for all the teams he has played for. Unfortunately he had an ankle problem and was forced to leave the field."

The severity of the injury is still unknown.&nbsp;

The Portuguese has missed out on most of the action this year. Earlier, he was tested positive for coronavirus and now the injury.&nbsp;

This injury has come amidst reports that suggest Juventus are considering to sell the Portuguese in the upcoming summer. The report comes as rumours are making rounds that the player is not intending to extend his contract with the club.&nbsp;

Juve boss Andrea Pirlo confirmed that star Cristiano Ronaldo suffered an injury by the end of 1-1 draw against Lazio. Also read: Harry Maguire reacts to Manchester United criticism In the final 15 minutes, Ronaldo collided with Spanish midfielder Luis Alberto after which he was seen limping off the pitch.

Juve boss Andrea Pirlo confirmed that star Cristiano Ronaldo suffered an injury by the end of 1-1 draw against Lazio. Also read: Harry Maguire reacts to Manchester United criticism In the final 15 minutes, Ronaldo collided with Spanish midfielder Luis Alberto after which he was seen limping off the pitch. During the post-match conference, Pirlo said: "[Cristiano] Ronaldo is a key player not only for us but for all the teams he has played for. Unfortunately he had an ankle problem and was forced to leave the field." The severity of the injury is still unknown. The Portuguese has missed out on most of the action this year. Earlier, he was tested positive for coronavirus and now the injury. This injury has come amidst reports that suggest Juventus are considering to sell the Portuguese in the upcoming summer. The report comes as rumours are making rounds that the player is not intending to extend his contract with the club.

Juve star Cristiano Ronaldo suffers ankle injury, confirms Andrea Pirlo

Lionel Messi scored as Barcelona overcame a depleted Dynamo Kiev 2-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, while Juventus eased Ferencvaros aside and Manchester United slumped to an unexpected defeat in Turkey.

Nine-man Paris Saint-Germain lost to RB Leipzig in a repeat of last season's semi-final and Chelsea proved too strong for Rennes, with Timo Werner twice converting from the penalty spot.&nbsp;

Making his 150th appearance in European competition, Messi dispatched an early penalty at Camp Nou after he was fouled in the area and Gerard Pique headed in Ansu Fati's cross on the hour.

Viktor Tsygankov grabbed a consolation for coronavirus-hit Dynamo as Barca, winless in four games in La Liga, recorded their third successive Group G victory to stay three points clear of Juventus.

"We are happy because we won," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "But we have to play better than we did today. We have to improve, above all without the ball, where we haven't played well."

Cristiano Ronaldo made his first start for the Italian champions since September after testing positive for Covid-19 in a 4-1 win at Hungarian side Ferencvaros.

However, the Portuguese star was outshone in Budapest by Alvaro Morata, whose two goals put Andrea Pirlo's team in control.

Paulo Dybala added a third before an own goal from Lasha Dvali, with Franck Boli netting for the hosts in the final minute.

United produced a shambolic first-half defensive display as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side lost 2-1 against Istanbul Basaksehir.

Demba Ba collected the ball just inside his own half and raced through to beat goalkeeper Dean Henderson on 13 minutes, with Edin Visca smashing in a second after Juan Mata was stripped of possession.

Anthony Martial's header cut the deficit before half-time but United saw their momentum in Group H halted after wins over PSG and RB Leipzig last month.

"You don't just turn up and get three points in the Champions League. We weren't good enough, that's it. It's not easy to be positive when you've lost the way we did," Solskjaer told BT Sport.

<h2>- PSG capitulate in Leipzig -</h2>

Emil Forsberg's penalty earned Leipzig a 2-1 victory as they came from behind to beat a weakened Paris Saint-Germain, dealing a major blow to the Champions League aspirations of last season's runners-up.

Angel di Maria had given PSG an early lead in Germany but he then crucially missed a penalty for the French champions, who were missing both Neymar and Kylian Mbappe due to injury and ended the contest with nine men.

Christopher Nkunku levelled before half-time for Leipzig and Forsberg converted from the spot in the 57th minute before the visitors had both Idrissa Gueye and Presnel Kimpembe sent off.

"It's difficult. It's maybe our fault because we didn't get the second goal and then made a mistake on the penalty," PSG boss Thomas Tuchel told RMC Sport.

"There was a red card, it's then hard, 10 against 11. There were too many things going against us."

Chelsea strolled to a 3-0 win at home against Rennes who saw defender Dalbert sent off after conceding two penalties in the first half.

Werner took over spot-kick duties from Jorginho and confidently tucked both away before Tammy Abraham turned in a third for the Blues on 50 minutes.

Frank Lampard's men have yet to concede in Group E and are level on seven points with Sevilla, who rallied to defeat Krasnodar 3-2 despite the dismissal of captain Jesus Navas late in the first half.

Goals from Magomed Suleymanov and Marcus Berg, the second a penalty, put Krasnodar ahead in Spain but Ivan Rakitic pulled one back for Sevilla before the break.

Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri struck twice in four second-half minutes to floor Krasnodar and leave the Russians alongside Rennes on just one point.

Erling Braut Haaland notched a brace to lead Borussia Dortmund to a 3-0 win at Club Brugge and send the Germans top of Group F. Thorgan Hazard had opened the scoring in his native Belgium.

Felipe Caicedo's late equaliser earned Lazio a 1-1 draw at Zenit Saint Petersburg after Aleksandr Erokhin had struck in the first half in front of some 17,000 fans in Russia.

Lionel Messi scored as Barcelona overcame a depleted Dynamo Kiev 2-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, while Juventus eased Ferencvaros aside and Manchester United slumped to an unexpected defeat in Turkey.

Lionel Messi scored as Barcelona overcame a depleted Dynamo Kiev 2-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, while Juventus eased Ferencvaros aside and Manchester United slumped to an unexpected defeat in Turkey. Nine-man Paris Saint-Germain lost to RB Leipzig in a repeat of last season's semi-final and Chelsea proved too strong for Rennes, with Timo Werner twice converting from the penalty spot. Making his 150th appearance in European competition, Messi dispatched an early penalty at Camp Nou after he was fouled in the area and Gerard Pique headed in Ansu Fati's cross on the hour. Viktor Tsygankov grabbed a consolation for coronavirus-hit Dynamo as Barca, winless in four games in La Liga, recorded their third successive Group G victory to stay three points clear of Juventus. "We are happy because we won," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "But we have to play better than we did today. We have to improve, above all without the ball, where we haven't played well." Cristiano Ronaldo made his first start for the Italian champions since September after testing positive for Covid-19 in a 4-1 win at Hungarian side Ferencvaros. However, the Portuguese star was outshone in Budapest by Alvaro Morata, whose two goals put Andrea Pirlo's team in control. Paulo Dybala added a third before an own goal from Lasha Dvali, with Franck Boli netting for the hosts in the final minute. United produced a shambolic first-half defensive display as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side lost 2-1 against Istanbul Basaksehir. Demba Ba collected the ball just inside his own half and raced through to beat goalkeeper Dean Henderson on 13 minutes, with Edin Visca smashing in a second after Juan Mata was stripped of possession. Anthony Martial's header cut the deficit before half-time but United saw their momentum in Group H halted after wins over PSG and RB Leipzig last month. "You don't just turn up and get three points in the Champions League. We weren't good enough, that's it. It's not easy to be positive when you've lost the way we did," Solskjaer told BT Sport. - PSG capitulate in Leipzig - Emil Forsberg's penalty earned Leipzig a 2-1 victory as they came from behind to beat a weakened Paris Saint-Germain, dealing a major blow to the Champions League aspirations of last season's runners-up. Angel di Maria had given PSG an early lead in Germany but he then crucially missed a penalty for the French champions, who were missing both Neymar and Kylian Mbappe due to injury and ended the contest with nine men. Christopher Nkunku levelled before half-time for Leipzig and Forsberg converted from the spot in the 57th minute before the visitors had both Idrissa Gueye and Presnel Kimpembe sent off. "It's difficult. It's maybe our fault because we didn't get the second goal and then made a mistake on the penalty," PSG boss Thomas Tuchel told RMC Sport. "There was a red card, it's then hard, 10 against 11. There were too many things going against us." Chelsea strolled to a 3-0 win at home against Rennes who saw defender Dalbert sent off after conceding two penalties in the first half. Werner took over spot-kick duties from Jorginho and confidently tucked both away before Tammy Abraham turned in a third for the Blues on 50 minutes. Frank Lampard's men have yet to concede in Group E and are level on seven points with Sevilla, who rallied to defeat Krasnodar 3-2 despite the dismissal of captain Jesus Navas late in the first half. Goals from Magomed Suleymanov and Marcus Berg, the second a penalty, put Krasnodar ahead in Spain but Ivan Rakitic pulled one back for Sevilla before the break. Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri struck twice in four second-half minutes to floor Krasnodar and leave the Russians alongside Rennes on just one point. Erling Braut Haaland notched a brace to lead Borussia Dortmund to a 3-0 win at Club Brugge and send the Germans top of Group F. Thorgan Hazard had opened the scoring in his native Belgium. Felipe Caicedo's late equaliser earned Lazio a 1-1 draw at Zenit Saint Petersburg after Aleksandr Erokhin had struck in the first half in front of some 17,000 fans in Russia.

Barca, Juve win in Champions League as woeful Man Utd beaten

Cristiano Ronaldo made a perfect comeback after missing a couple of games as he had tested positive for COVID-19 in October.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-vs-arsenal-premier-league-live-streaming-how-to-watch-mun-vs-ars-online-339460" hreflang="en">Manchester United vs Arsenal, Premier League Live Streaming: How to watch MUN vs ARS online?</a>

Juventus star scored a brace just minutes into the pitch helping his team thrash Spezia by 4-1 in Serie A on Sunday.&nbsp;

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He's 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤. 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpeziaJuve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpeziaJuve</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FinoAllaFine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FinoAllaFine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForzaJuve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForzaJuve</a> <a href="https://t.co/QF6B0e2tnc">pic.twitter.com/QF6B0e2tnc</a>
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The 5-time Ballon d'Or had tested positive for COVID-19 while being on international duty due to which Ronaldo was forced to miss crucial games including the Champions League clash against Barcelona. However, his return helped Juventus move to second place in the Serie A points tally. They are now four points below early leader AC Milan which won 2-1 at Udinese thanks to a late winner from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Ronaldo was brought in the 56th minute and he put Juventus 2-1 up three minutes later. He also converted a penalty to seal the result for the Bianconeri side.

Earlier this week, Juventus had informed Ronaldo had tested negative for the virus after testing positive twice.&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo made a perfect comeback after missing a couple of games as he had tested positive for COVID-19 in October. Also read: Manchester United vs Arsenal, Premier League Live Streaming: How to watch MUN vs ARS online?

Cristiano Ronaldo made a perfect comeback after missing a couple of games as he had tested positive for COVID-19 in October. Also read: Manchester United vs Arsenal, Premier League Live Streaming: How to watch MUN vs ARS online? Juventus star scored a brace just minutes into the pitch helping his team thrash Spezia by 4-1 in Serie A on Sunday. He's 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤. 🔥#SpeziaJuve #FinoAllaFine #ForzaJuve pic.twitter.com/QF6B0e2tnc — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) November 1, 2020 × The 5-time Ballon d'Or had tested positive for COVID-19 while being on international duty due to which Ronaldo was forced to miss crucial games including the Champions League clash against Barcelona. However, his return helped Juventus move to second place in the Serie A points tally. They are now four points below early leader AC Milan which won 2-1 at Udinese thanks to a late winner from Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Ronaldo was brought in the 56th minute and he put Juventus 2-1 up three minutes later. He also converted a penalty to seal the result for the Bianconeri side. Earlier this week, Juventus had informed Ronaldo had tested negative for the virus after testing positive twice.

'He's back': Cristiano Ronaldo scores a brace for Juventus after COVID recovery

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo has recovered from COVID-19, the club took to Twitter to share this news on Friday. It took 17 days for the Portuguese legend to recover from this virus.&nbsp;

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. <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> recovers from Covid-19<a href="https://t.co/4etecyAw0O">https://t.co/4etecyAw0O</a> <a href="https://t.co/YPZSm0My8A">pic.twitter.com/YPZSm0My8A</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1322224770788872193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The five-time Ballon D'Or winner first tested positive for COVID-19 just days after playing for Portugal against Spain and France in the Nations League. He missed out on many crucial fixtures including the much-anticipated Champions League clash against Barcelona.&nbsp;

Portugal’s Football Federation, after the footballer tested positive for the virus, issued a statement. According to the statement, the 35-year-old was "well" and had "no symptoms". It added that the player had gone into isolation.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ronaldo, who has shaved his head, has been seen training in his house as per Instagram activities while flexing his finely crafted physique.&nbsp;

Ronaldo and Messi, who ruled the last decade, have not faced each other in the UEFA Champions League since the semi-final between Real Madrid and Barcelona on 2011-12 season.

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo has recovered from COVID-19, the club took to Twitter to share this news on Friday. It took 17 days for the Portuguese legend to recover from this virus.

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo has recovered from COVID-19, the club took to Twitter to share this news on Friday. It took 17 days for the Portuguese legend to recover from this virus. . @Cristiano recovers from Covid-19https://t.co/4etecyAw0O pic.twitter.com/YPZSm0My8A — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) October 30, 2020 × The five-time Ballon D'Or winner first tested positive for COVID-19 just days after playing for Portugal against Spain and France in the Nations League. He missed out on many crucial fixtures including the much-anticipated Champions League clash against Barcelona. Portugal’s Football Federation, after the footballer tested positive for the virus, issued a statement. According to the statement, the 35-year-old was "well" and had "no symptoms". It added that the player had gone into isolation. Meanwhile, Ronaldo, who has shaved his head, has been seen training in his house as per Instagram activities while flexing his finely crafted physique. Ronaldo and Messi, who ruled the last decade, have not faced each other in the UEFA Champions League since the semi-final between Real Madrid and Barcelona on 2011-12 season.

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo recovers from COVID-19

Barcelona may host few fans for their Champions League fixture against Juventus at the Camp Nou in December, as per Catalan's regional government.&nbsp;

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In an interview with &nbsp;Catalan daily Sport, the region's General Director for Sport, Gerard Figueras, said preliminary discussions had taken place between authorities and Barca about the return of fans amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The club have spoken to us about gradually brining fans back, and we told them this is something we need to analyse game by game. Initial figures could be 3000 or 5000 people at the Nou Camp, and according to the epidemiological situation, we will decide if we can scale that up," he said.

"I think that the protocols will be just about ready to allow for a crowd for the game against Juventus on Dec. 8, as long as the epidemiological situation hasn't got worse."

Barcelona is yet to comment on the situation.&nbsp;

(Inputs from Reuters)

Barcelona may host few fans for their Champions League fixture against Juventus at the Camp Nou in December, as per Catalan's regional government. Also read: Arteta feels he has 'failed' Arsenal over Ozil omission In an interview with Catalan daily Sport, the region's General Director for Sport, Gerard Figueras, said preliminary discussions had taken place between authorities and Barca about the return of fans amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Barcelona may host few fans for their Champions League fixture against Juventus at the Camp Nou in December, as per Catalan's regional government. Also read: Arteta feels he has 'failed' Arsenal over Ozil omission In an interview with Catalan daily Sport, the region's General Director for Sport, Gerard Figueras, said preliminary discussions had taken place between authorities and Barca about the return of fans amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "The club have spoken to us about gradually brining fans back, and we told them this is something we need to analyse game by game. Initial figures could be 3000 or 5000 people at the Nou Camp, and according to the epidemiological situation, we will decide if we can scale that up," he said. "I think that the protocols will be just about ready to allow for a crowd for the game against Juventus on Dec. 8, as long as the epidemiological situation hasn't got worse." Barcelona is yet to comment on the situation. (Inputs from Reuters)

Barcelona vs Juventus in December might feature fans: Catalan's regional government

Italy's top-tier football league Serie A chief Paolo Dal Pino on Tuesday has tested positive for coronavirus. Gabriele Gravina, Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president, has gone into isolation too, as per both organisations' statement.

Italy's top-tier football league Serie A chief Paolo Dal Pino on Tuesday has tested positive for coronavirus. Gabriele Gravina, Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president, has gone into isolation too, as per both organisations' statement. "President Paolo Dal Pino tested positive for COVID-19 following a swab carried out yesterday (Monday)," the Italian top-flight said in a statement. "Asymptomatic and in isolation at home, he will follow the procedures set out in the health protocol." As a result of 58-year-old Dal Pino's positive, the FIGC said Gravina, 67, "for prudential purposes, in the absence of symptoms" had also decided to self-isolate. Earlier, defending champions Juventus informed that the entire squad has gone into isolation after two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Turin giants confirmed those returning positive tests were "neither players nor members of the technical or medical staff". (Inputs from AFP)

Serie A: League president Dal Pino positive for virus, Gravina in isolation

Serie A champions Juventus on Saturday informed that the entire squad has gone into isolation after two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/edinson-cavani-set-to-manchester-united-on-a-two-year-deal-reports-332404" hreflang="en">Edinson Cavani set to Manchester United on a two-year deal: Reports</a>

Turin giants confirmed those returning positive tests were "neither players nor members of the technical or medical staff".

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Team in fiduciary isolation<a href="https://t.co/iVRUG23N4e">https://t.co/iVRUG23N4e</a> <a href="https://t.co/GWe5dRxHsj">pic.twitter.com/GWe5dRxHsj</a>
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"This procedure will allow all members who tested negative to the controls to carry out regular training and match activities, but will not be allowed contact with outside the group," the club said in a statement.

"The club is in constant contact with the competent health authorities."

Serie A champions Juventus on Saturday informed that the entire squad has gone into isolation after two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Also read: Edinson Cavani set to Manchester United on a two-year deal: Reports Turin giants confirmed those returning positive tests were "neither players nor members of the technical or medical staff".

Serie A champions Juventus on Saturday informed that the entire squad has gone into isolation after two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Also read: Edinson Cavani set to Manchester United on a two-year deal: Reports Turin giants confirmed those returning positive tests were "neither players nor members of the technical or medical staff". Team in fiduciary isolationhttps://t.co/iVRUG23N4e pic.twitter.com/GWe5dRxHsj — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) October 3, 2020 × "This procedure will allow all members who tested negative to the controls to carry out regular training and match activities, but will not be allowed contact with outside the group," the club said in a statement. "The club is in constant contact with the competent health authorities."

Juventus squad in isolation after couple of staff members test positive for coronavirus

Football fans are overjoyed as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will face each other on the pitch after almost two years after Barcelona and Juventus were drawn into the Champions League 2020-21 Group G.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-says-he-wants-to-put-an-end-to-barcelona-feuding-331415" hreflang="en">Messi says he wants to 'put an end' to Barcelona feuding</a>

This is the first time Cristiano and Lionel will play each other in the group stage of the Champions League. .

Netizens took to Twitter to share their excitement for the match between the two legends.&nbsp;

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For the last time I would get to watch Messi vs C.Ronaldo play against each other one more time <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/imBHSE4P15">pic.twitter.com/imBHSE4P15</a>
— Farouk Abimbola Abdulsalam (@Akanopeacemaker) <a href="https://twitter.com/Akanopeacemaker/status/1311699057019158532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo and Messi both in Group G 
 
G for GOAT.. And you tell me this wasn’t planned ? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/Cb7lihqZXF">pic.twitter.com/Cb7lihqZXF</a>
— Omo Grandma (@oluwaseyii01) <a href="https://twitter.com/oluwaseyii01/status/1311699036538368023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo and Messi in group G 
 
G for goat 
I see what you did there <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/O0UG8EJI5D">pic.twitter.com/O0UG8EJI5D</a>
— Alabi_Blacknd 🌚 (@temidayo_XO) <a href="https://twitter.com/temidayo_XO/status/1311698714310905857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Messi and Ronaldo to Dynamo Kiev goalkeeper <a href="https://t.co/jONwTfqaCV">pic.twitter.com/jONwTfqaCV</a>
— 🎥ernst (@ERNESTHDGAMERX) <a href="https://twitter.com/ERNESTHDGAMERX/status/1311699109078851589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The grand old men of football will face each other in the Champions League group stage for the first time. <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@juventusfcen</a> v <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCBarcelona</a>. Ronaldo v Messi. 👌🏻
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1311695761910964227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo and Messi in group 'G' because they are 'GOATS' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/6Wa7zhPL5G">pic.twitter.com/6Wa7zhPL5G</a>
— Unwanted Friend😒🌚 (@holardamolar) <a href="https://twitter.com/holardamolar/status/1311723394719780864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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When Messi and Ronaldo are drawn in the same Champions League group 🕺 <a href="https://t.co/cccZkOj8vp">pic.twitter.com/cccZkOj8vp</a>
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNUK/status/1311712993793769473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Barcelona and Juventus are drawn along with Dynamo Kyiv and Ferencvaros.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have faced each other several times in La Liga's prestigious El Clasico clash. However, the Real Madrid star left the club after Ronaldo's transfer to Juventus in 2018.

Football fans are overjoyed as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will face each other on the pitch after almost two years after Barcelona and Juventus were drawn into the Champions League 2020-21 Group G.

Football fans are overjoyed as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will face each other on the pitch after almost two years after Barcelona and Juventus were drawn into the Champions League 2020-21 Group G. Also read: Messi says he wants to 'put an end' to Barcelona feuding This is the first time Cristiano and Lionel will play each other in the group stage of the Champions League. . Netizens took to Twitter to share their excitement for the match between the two legends. For the last time I would get to watch Messi vs C.Ronaldo play against each other one more time #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/imBHSE4P15 — Farouk Abimbola Abdulsalam (@Akanopeacemaker) October 1, 2020 × Ronaldo and Messi both in Group G G for GOAT.. And you tell me this wasn’t planned ? #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/Cb7lihqZXF — Omo Grandma (@oluwaseyii01) October 1, 2020 × Ronaldo and Messi in group G G for goat I see what you did there #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/O0UG8EJI5D — Alabi_Blacknd 🌚 (@temidayo_XO) October 1, 2020 × Messi and Ronaldo to Dynamo Kiev goalkeeper pic.twitter.com/jONwTfqaCV — 🎥ernst (@ERNESTHDGAMERX) October 1, 2020 × The grand old men of football will face each other in the Champions League group stage for the first time. @juventusfcen v @FCBarcelona. Ronaldo v Messi. 👌🏻 — Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) October 1, 2020 × Ronaldo and Messi in group 'G' because they are 'GOATS' #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/6Wa7zhPL5G — Unwanted Friend😒🌚 (@holardamolar) October 1, 2020 × When Messi and Ronaldo are drawn in the same Champions League group 🕺 pic.twitter.com/cccZkOj8vp — ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) October 1, 2020 × Barcelona and Juventus are drawn along with Dynamo Kyiv and Ferencvaros. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have faced each other several times in La Liga's prestigious El Clasico clash. However, the Real Madrid star left the club after Ronaldo's transfer to Juventus in 2018.

'G for Goat': Netizens react to Messi vs Ronaldo in Champions League

In a highly-anticipated first clash between two former stars of Italy and AC Milan now chasing coaching glory, Gennaro Gattuso's Napoli test their 'Scudetto' ambitions at Andrea Pirlo's Juventus on Sunday.

Both won the 2006 World Cup for Italy and spent a decade as AC Milan teammates, winning two Serie A titles and two Champions League crowns together.

It is a clash which Inter Milan coach Antonio Conte can't wait to see.

"Juve v Napoli? I'll enjoy watching it," said Conte, who coached Pirlo as a player to the first three of Juventus's current run of nine Serie A titles.

"Napoli are underestimated a lot," continued Conte.&nbsp;

"They are an excellent team, they are among the favourites for the Scudetto.&nbsp;

"They have a staff and a very good coach who will make life difficult for everyone."

Gattuso begins his second season on the Napoli bench having taken over from Carlo Ancelotti last December. The club finished seventh but qualified for the Europa League after winning the Italian Cup, their first trophy in six years.

Former Glasgow Rangers defensive midfielder Gattuso has been coaching since he hung up his boots in 2013, with the bulk of his footballing career spent at AC Milan.

He had stints at Sion, Palermo, Crete and Pisa before returning to Milan where he trained the youth team before coaching the first-team for 18 months.

The 42-year-old left Milan after the team missed the Champions League by just one point.

By contrast, Pirlo, 41, had no coaching experience before taking over from Maurizio Sarri, receiving his coaching diploma days before the season kicked off.

"Well he's stuck now! That's the job," quipped Gattuso on hearing Pirlo's appointment.

"He's lucky to be starting at Juventus, but this profession is one where a great playing career is not enough. You have to study, to work hard, and you don't get much sleep."

<h2>Coronavirus tests&nbsp;</h2>

This season Gattuso has the ambitious task of winning a first Serie A title since the days of Napoli legend Diego Maradona in 1990.

Pirlo is counting on extending Juventus's winning streak to 10 consecutive Serie A titles.

Napoli are top of the Italian league table after two games with a win over Parma, and a 6-0 hammering of Genoa last time out.

Pirlo's Juventus is a team "under construction". They were held 2-2 by Roma last weekend.

As Napoli sit equal on maximum points with Inter Milan, Atalanta, Hellas Verona and AC Milan, Juve have four points.

Napoli are awaiting the results of a second round of coronavirus tests as last week's opponents Genoa had 16 positive tests this week, including 12 players.&nbsp;

Genoa's game against Torino on Saturday has been postponed.

A first round of swabs at Napoli came back negative, with the results of the second series of tests expected on Friday.

Inter, who have scored nine goals in their first two matches, take on a Lazio hurting after their 4-1 defeat to Atalanta in the Stadio Olimpico.

"Inter have been considered an outsider for many years, now we have acquired credibility," said Conte of last season's runenrs-up.

High-scoring Atalanta next host Cagliari with Hellas Verona&nbsp;looking for a third consecutive win at Parma.

Roma head for Udinese looking for their first win, with the north-easterners reeling after losing to promoted La Spezia, who next challenge AC Milan.

In a highly-anticipated first clash between two former stars of Italy and AC Milan now chasing coaching glory, Gennaro Gattuso's Napoli test their 'Scudetto' ambitions at Andrea Pirlo's Juventus on Sunday.

In a highly-anticipated first clash between two former stars of Italy and AC Milan now chasing coaching glory, Gennaro Gattuso's Napoli test their 'Scudetto' ambitions at Andrea Pirlo's Juventus on Sunday. Both won the 2006 World Cup for Italy and spent a decade as AC Milan teammates, winning two Serie A titles and two Champions League crowns together. It is a clash which Inter Milan coach Antonio Conte can't wait to see. "Juve v Napoli? I'll enjoy watching it," said Conte, who coached Pirlo as a player to the first three of Juventus's current run of nine Serie A titles. "Napoli are underestimated a lot," continued Conte. "They are an excellent team, they are among the favourites for the Scudetto. "They have a staff and a very good coach who will make life difficult for everyone." Gattuso begins his second season on the Napoli bench having taken over from Carlo Ancelotti last December. The club finished seventh but qualified for the Europa League after winning the Italian Cup, their first trophy in six years. Former Glasgow Rangers defensive midfielder Gattuso has been coaching since he hung up his boots in 2013, with the bulk of his footballing career spent at AC Milan. He had stints at Sion, Palermo, Crete and Pisa before returning to Milan where he trained the youth team before coaching the first-team for 18 months. The 42-year-old left Milan after the team missed the Champions League by just one point. By contrast, Pirlo, 41, had no coaching experience before taking over from Maurizio Sarri, receiving his coaching diploma days before the season kicked off. "Well he's stuck now! That's the job," quipped Gattuso on hearing Pirlo's appointment. "He's lucky to be starting at Juventus, but this profession is one where a great playing career is not enough. You have to study, to work hard, and you don't get much sleep." Coronavirus tests This season Gattuso has the ambitious task of winning a first Serie A title since the days of Napoli legend Diego Maradona in 1990. Pirlo is counting on extending Juventus's winning streak to 10 consecutive Serie A titles. Napoli are top of the Italian league table after two games with a win over Parma, and a 6-0 hammering of Genoa last time out. Pirlo's Juventus is a team "under construction". They were held 2-2 by Roma last weekend. As Napoli sit equal on maximum points with Inter Milan, Atalanta, Hellas Verona and AC Milan, Juve have four points. Napoli are awaiting the results of a second round of coronavirus tests as last week's opponents Genoa had 16 positive tests this week, including 12 players. Genoa's game against Torino on Saturday has been postponed. A first round of swabs at Napoli came back negative, with the results of the second series of tests expected on Friday. Inter, who have scored nine goals in their first two matches, take on a Lazio hurting after their 4-1 defeat to Atalanta in the Stadio Olimpico. "Inter have been considered an outsider for many years, now we have acquired credibility," said Conte of last season's runenrs-up. High-scoring Atalanta next host Cagliari with Hellas Verona looking for a third consecutive win at Parma. Roma head for Udinese looking for their first win, with the north-easterners reeling after losing to promoted La Spezia, who next challenge AC Milan.

Pirlo v Gattuso: World Cup-winners face off as Napoli test Juventus

Perugia prosecutor's department on Tuesday said that Barcelona's striker Luis Suarez is suspected of cheating to pass his Italian language test with the help of his teachers.

Perugia prosecutor's department on Tuesday said that Barcelona's striker Luis Suarez is suspected of cheating to pass his Italian language test with the help of his teachers. Also read: La Liga: Barca looking to block Luis Suarez's move to Atletico Madrid Clearing the Italian exam is the first step to receive a passport. Suarez has been looking for one after being linked to Juventus as a possible transfer. "The investigation showed that the subjects discussed during the exam were agreed beforehand with the candidate and that the grade was awarded to him even before the test," the prosecutor's department said in a statement. Raffaele Cantone, a former head of Italy's National Anti-Corruption Authority, has been investigating University for Foreigners officials over various irregularities since February. Suarez came under suspicion over an overheard conversation. "But what do you think, that we're going to fail him? Today I have the last lesson (with Suarez) and I have to prepare it because he barely speaks a word" of Italian, Stefania Spina, one of the people targeted by the investigation, is claimed to have said according to prosecution documents cited by Italian media. Asked by a colleague what level Suarez "should pass" in Italian, Spina reportedly replied: "He should not, he must, he will pass, because with a salary of 10 million (euros) per season, you can't make him fail" his exam, "even if he doesn't know how to conjugate verbs and speak in the infinitive." According to Juve coach Andrea Pirlo, a proposed deal for Suarez was unlikely to go ahead because of delays in the Uruguayan's bid to get an Italian passport. The Italian champions cannot recruit Suarez otherwise because they have already reached their quota for non-EU players. (Inputs from AFP)

Luis Suarez and cheating? Barca striker suspected of cheating on Italian exam

Defending Champions Juventus will begin their 2020/21 Serie A campaign hoping for a 10th consecutive league win on the weekend of September 19-20, according to the calendar unveiled on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-el-clasicos-to-madrid-derbies-la-liga-schedule-announced-324717" hreflang="en">From El Clasicos to Madrid Derbies: La Liga schedule announced!</a>

They will be hosting Sampdoria.&nbsp;

Juventus will be the only Italian club involved in the Champions League to play in the opening round of fixtures.

League runners-up Inter Milan travel to promoted Benevento while Atalanta, who finished third, is away at fourth-placed Lazio, those two matches a week later because of their European involvement.

The opening weekend will also witness Zlatan Ibrahimovic's AC Milan hosting Bologna and Napoli making the trip to Palermo. Roma will play an away game Hellas Verona.&nbsp;

Heavyweights Juventus and Inter Milan will face each other in 2021. The teams will play each other on January 17 in Milan and May 16 in Turin.&nbsp;

Defending Champions Juventus will begin their 2020/21 Serie A campaign hoping for a 10th consecutive league win on the weekend of September 19-20, according to the calendar unveiled on Wednesday.

Defending Champions Juventus will begin their 2020/21 Serie A campaign hoping for a 10th consecutive league win on the weekend of September 19-20, according to the calendar unveiled on Wednesday. Also read: From El Clasicos to Madrid Derbies: La Liga schedule announced! They will be hosting Sampdoria. Juventus will be the only Italian club involved in the Champions League to play in the opening round of fixtures. League runners-up Inter Milan travel to promoted Benevento while Atalanta, who finished third, is away at fourth-placed Lazio, those two matches a week later because of their European involvement. The opening weekend will also witness Zlatan Ibrahimovic's AC Milan hosting Bologna and Napoli making the trip to Palermo. Roma will play an away game Hellas Verona. Heavyweights Juventus and Inter Milan will face each other in 2021. The teams will play each other on January 17 in Milan and May 16 in Turin.

Defending champs Juventus to begin Serie A season against Sampdoria

Italian side Juventus' new boss Andrea Pirlo is looking to drop six players in the team this summer and one of them is Aaron Ramsey. The former Arsenal star has been asked to look for another club after Pirlo made it clear that the player is not needed.&nbsp;

Ramsey joined Juventus last year on a free transfer from Arsenal. His wages of £400,000-a-week could well limit his options on moving to another club, and he will have to take a pay cut if he moves on.

Aaron Ramsey, under Maurizio Sarri, made just 11 Serie A starts and he does not fit into Pirlo’s ball-playing style.

Other players in the team like &nbsp;Gonzalo Higuain, Sami Khedira, Daniele Rugani, Mattia De Sciglio, and Blaise Matuidi are also not included in Pirlo's squad. Matuidi is on his way to MLS to play for David Beckham's Inter Miami.&nbsp;

Last month, the Daily Telegraph reported that Juventus were hoping a swap deal involving Ramsey and Tanguy Ndombele. However, Jose Mourinho though wants to keep the £53.8million man, claiming that he will come good.

Aaron Ramsey is even being linked with Manchester United as their manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was interested in the Wales star earlier in the summer.

Italian side Juventus' new boss Andrea Pirlo is looking to drop six players in the team this summer and one of them is Aaron Ramsey. The former Arsenal star has been asked to look for another club after Pirlo made it clear that the player is not needed.

Italian side Juventus' new boss Andrea Pirlo is looking to drop six players in the team this summer and one of them is Aaron Ramsey. The former Arsenal star has been asked to look for another club after Pirlo made it clear that the player is not needed. Ramsey joined Juventus last year on a free transfer from Arsenal. His wages of £400,000-a-week could well limit his options on moving to another club, and he will have to take a pay cut if he moves on. Aaron Ramsey, under Maurizio Sarri, made just 11 Serie A starts and he does not fit into Pirlo’s ball-playing style. Other players in the team like Gonzalo Higuain, Sami Khedira, Daniele Rugani, Mattia De Sciglio, and Blaise Matuidi are also not included in Pirlo's squad. Matuidi is on his way to MLS to play for David Beckham's Inter Miami. Last month, the Daily Telegraph reported that Juventus were hoping a swap deal involving Ramsey and Tanguy Ndombele. However, Jose Mourinho though wants to keep the £53.8million man, claiming that he will come good. Aaron Ramsey is even being linked with Manchester United as their manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was interested in the Wales star earlier in the summer.

Aaron Ramsey has no place in Andrea Pirlo's Juventus: Reports

Juventus crashed to a humiliating 2-0 defeat at Cagliari on Wednesday, days after sealing their ninth consecutive Serie A title, prompting coach Maurizio Sarri to consider fielding his Under-23 team in Saturday's finale to conserve resources ahead of their Champions League challenge.

Cagliari's 20-year-old forward Luca Gagliano tapped in the opener eight minutes into his first Serie A match, beating veteran Juventus keeper Gianluigi Buffon to score his first top division goal.

And the young Italian then teed up Giovanni Simeone in first half stoppage time to give Cagliari their first win over Juventus in 11 years.

"The 40 goals conceded (this season) may be a concern, but tonight's game is not," said Sarri.&nbsp;

"We had nine injured and we came from a championship won 68 hours ago, so it was an atypical game that should be taken for what it is.&nbsp;

"We are the only ones in Europe who have played five games in 12 days, the League has created big problems for us.&nbsp;

"Let's see how we are tomorrow and if it is appropriate to line up the Under-23 team on Saturday against Roma to recover better."

Cristiano Ronaldo missed the chance to keep pace with Serie A's leading scorer Ciro Immobile, the Portuguese now four goals behind the Lazio forward's tally of 35 with one match remaining.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had a goal ruled offside after 16 minutes and was denied twice by Cagliari goalkeeper Alessio Cragno as the 13th-placed Sardinians ended their eight-match winless run.

It was a worrying performance for Sarri's side, who have won just two of their last seven games, with key forwards Paulo Dybala and Douglas Costa fighting for fitness ahead of the Champions League showdown with Lyon on August 7 in Turin, when they need to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit.

<h2>- Immobile on target -</h2>

&nbsp;

In Rome, Immobile moved to within one goal of equalling the Serie A single season scoring record as Lazio beat relegated Brescia 2-0 to stay in the race for second place.

Immobile struck eight minutes from time to close in on Gonzalo Higuain's record of 36 goals, scored for Napoli in 2015-16.

Lazio are fourth, equal on 78 points with third-placed Atalanta, who beat Parma 2-1 on Tuesday, and one adrift of Inter Milan who are second following their 2-0 win over Napoli.

Inter and Atalanta will go head-to-head this weekend with Lazio's last game at seventh-placed Napoli.

Immobile helped Joaquin Correa open the scoring after 16 minutes at the Stadio Olimpico, with Correa returning the favour late on.

Behind the top four, who are assured of Champions League football next season, Roma sealed their Europa League group stage berth with a 3-2 win at Torino.

Napoli have already secured their place as a result of their Italian Cup win while AC Milan, who will finish sixth, must go through the Europa League qualifying rounds despite beating Sampdoria 4-1.

<h2>- Zlatan AKA 'Benjamin Button' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Stefano Pioli's side remain four points behind Roma after Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice and set up a third in a dominating display against Samp.

The 38-year-old got his head to an Ante Rebic cross within four minutes in Genoa for his fastest goal in the Italian top flight, before nodding the ball across for Hakan Calhanoglu to add the second six minutes after the break.&nbsp;

Turkish winger Calhanoglu provided the cross which allowed Ibrahimovic to add his second of the night.&nbsp;

Leao added a fourth in injury time as Milan extended their unbeaten run to 11 games.

Ibrahimovic has scored nine league goals since rejoining Milan in January.

The veteran brings his club tally to 51 goals for the club, combined with his previous stint between 2010 and 2012.

He also becomes the first player to have scored 50 goals for both Milan clubs, with 57 netted during his time at city rivals Inter from 2006 to 2009.

"Like Benjamin Button, I've always been young, never old," said Ibrahimovic of the film of a man who ages in reverse.

"They tell me I'm old and tired but I'm just warming up."

Lecce's bid for survival will go down to the final day after they came from behind to beat Udinese 2-1.&nbsp;

The southern club occupy the final relegation position but are now just one point behind 17th-placed Genoa, who were hammered 5-0 at Sassuolo.

Both Lecce and Genoa will face Parma and Hellas Verona respectively at the weekend hoping to avoid joining Brescia and SPAL in Serie B.

Juventus crashed to a humiliating 2-0 defeat at Cagliari on Wednesday, days after sealing their ninth consecutive Serie A title, prompting coach Maurizio Sarri to consider fielding his Under-23 team in Saturday's finale to conserve resources ahead of their Champions League challenge.

Juventus crashed to a humiliating 2-0 defeat at Cagliari on Wednesday, days after sealing their ninth consecutive Serie A title, prompting coach Maurizio Sarri to consider fielding his Under-23 team in Saturday's finale to conserve resources ahead of their Champions League challenge. Cagliari's 20-year-old forward Luca Gagliano tapped in the opener eight minutes into his first Serie A match, beating veteran Juventus keeper Gianluigi Buffon to score his first top division goal. And the young Italian then teed up Giovanni Simeone in first half stoppage time to give Cagliari their first win over Juventus in 11 years. "The 40 goals conceded (this season) may be a concern, but tonight's game is not," said Sarri. "We had nine injured and we came from a championship won 68 hours ago, so it was an atypical game that should be taken for what it is. "We are the only ones in Europe who have played five games in 12 days, the League has created big problems for us. "Let's see how we are tomorrow and if it is appropriate to line up the Under-23 team on Saturday against Roma to recover better." Cristiano Ronaldo missed the chance to keep pace with Serie A's leading scorer Ciro Immobile, the Portuguese now four goals behind the Lazio forward's tally of 35 with one match remaining. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had a goal ruled offside after 16 minutes and was denied twice by Cagliari goalkeeper Alessio Cragno as the 13th-placed Sardinians ended their eight-match winless run. It was a worrying performance for Sarri's side, who have won just two of their last seven games, with key forwards Paulo Dybala and Douglas Costa fighting for fitness ahead of the Champions League showdown with Lyon on August 7 in Turin, when they need to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit. - Immobile on target - In Rome, Immobile moved to within one goal of equalling the Serie A single season scoring record as Lazio beat relegated Brescia 2-0 to stay in the race for second place. Immobile struck eight minutes from time to close in on Gonzalo Higuain's record of 36 goals, scored for Napoli in 2015-16. Lazio are fourth, equal on 78 points with third-placed Atalanta, who beat Parma 2-1 on Tuesday, and one adrift of Inter Milan who are second following their 2-0 win over Napoli. Inter and Atalanta will go head-to-head this weekend with Lazio's last game at seventh-placed Napoli. Immobile helped Joaquin Correa open the scoring after 16 minutes at the Stadio Olimpico, with Correa returning the favour late on. Behind the top four, who are assured of Champions League football next season, Roma sealed their Europa League group stage berth with a 3-2 win at Torino. Napoli have already secured their place as a result of their Italian Cup win while AC Milan, who will finish sixth, must go through the Europa League qualifying rounds despite beating Sampdoria 4-1. - Zlatan AKA 'Benjamin Button' - Stefano Pioli's side remain four points behind Roma after Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice and set up a third in a dominating display against Samp. The 38-year-old got his head to an Ante Rebic cross within four minutes in Genoa for his fastest goal in the Italian top flight, before nodding the ball across for Hakan Calhanoglu to add the second six minutes after the break. Turkish winger Calhanoglu provided the cross which allowed Ibrahimovic to add his second of the night. Leao added a fourth in injury time as Milan extended their unbeaten run to 11 games. Ibrahimovic has scored nine league goals since rejoining Milan in January. The veteran brings his club tally to 51 goals for the club, combined with his previous stint between 2010 and 2012. He also becomes the first player to have scored 50 goals for both Milan clubs, with 57 netted during his time at city rivals Inter from 2006 to 2009. "Like Benjamin Button, I've always been young, never old," said Ibrahimovic of the film of a man who ages in reverse. "They tell me I'm old and tired but I'm just warming up." Lecce's bid for survival will go down to the final day after they came from behind to beat Udinese 2-1. The southern club occupy the final relegation position but are now just one point behind 17th-placed Genoa, who were hammered 5-0 at Sassuolo. Both Lecce and Genoa will face Parma and Hellas Verona respectively at the weekend hoping to avoid joining Brescia and SPAL in Serie B.

Sarri tempted to field Under-23 team as Juve crash to humiliating defeat

Juventus won&nbsp;Serie&nbsp;A for the ninth season in a row when Cristiano Ronaldo set them on the way to a 2-0 win over Sampdoria on Sunday although the Portuguese veteran missed a late penalty.

The 35-year-old broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time with his 31st league goal of the season and Federico Bernardeschi added the second as Juve moved seven points clear of Inter Milan.

Juve, in their first season under coach Maurizio Sarri, clinched the title with two games to spare despite a stuttering run in which they won only one out of five matches before Sunday.

Sarri, who claimed the first major Italian title of his career, blamed their problems on the unique situation caused by the three-month coronavirus stoppage which led to the championship race finishing in a hectic six weeks played at the height of summer.

Juventus have 83 points while Inter, whose coach Antonio Conte led the Turin side to the first three titles of their present run, are on 76 and Atalanta and Lazio have 75 each.

Samp, who have climbed away from the relegation zone in the last few rounds and are 15th, had Morten Thorsby sent off for second bookable offence in the 76th minute.

Juventus lost two players to injury in the first half as defender Danilo had to go of after colliding with Gaston Ramriez and Paulo Dybala suffered a muscular injury to his left leg.

Fabio Quagliarella had Samp's best first-half chance when the ball was pulled back to him but his left-foot shot was weak and easily stopped by Wojciech Szczesny.

Juve went ahead from a free kick when Miralem Pjanic rolled the ball to Ronaldo and the Portuguese swept the ball home.

Sampdoria had a flurry of chances early in the second half.

Mehdi Leris sidefooted wide, Szczesny had to turn a looping Ramirez free kick around his post and Lorenzo Tonelli sent a powerful header narrowly wide from the resulting corner.

After those let-offs, Juve doubled their lead in 67th minute. Sampdoria goalkeeper Emil Audero could not hold Ronaldo's shot and Bernardeschi, who had replaced Danilo, snapped up the rebound.

Ronaldo's evening ended on a sour note when he smashed a penalty against the crossbar after Alex Sandro was fouled.

Juventus won Serie A for the ninth season in a row when Cristiano Ronaldo set them on the way to a 2-0 win over Sampdoria on Sunday although the Portuguese veteran missed a late penalty.

Juventus won Serie A for the ninth season in a row when Cristiano Ronaldo set them on the way to a 2-0 win over Sampdoria on Sunday although the Portuguese veteran missed a late penalty. The 35-year-old broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time with his 31st league goal of the season and Federico Bernardeschi added the second as Juve moved seven points clear of Inter Milan. Juve, in their first season under coach Maurizio Sarri, clinched the title with two games to spare despite a stuttering run in which they won only one out of five matches before Sunday. Sarri, who claimed the first major Italian title of his career, blamed their problems on the unique situation caused by the three-month coronavirus stoppage which led to the championship race finishing in a hectic six weeks played at the height of summer. Juventus have 83 points while Inter, whose coach Antonio Conte led the Turin side to the first three titles of their present run, are on 76 and Atalanta and Lazio have 75 each. Samp, who have climbed away from the relegation zone in the last few rounds and are 15th, had Morten Thorsby sent off for second bookable offence in the 76th minute. Juventus lost two players to injury in the first half as defender Danilo had to go of after colliding with Gaston Ramriez and Paulo Dybala suffered a muscular injury to his left leg. Fabio Quagliarella had Samp's best first-half chance when the ball was pulled back to him but his left-foot shot was weak and easily stopped by Wojciech Szczesny. Juve went ahead from a free kick when Miralem Pjanic rolled the ball to Ronaldo and the Portuguese swept the ball home. Sampdoria had a flurry of chances early in the second half. Mehdi Leris sidefooted wide, Szczesny had to turn a looping Ramirez free kick around his post and Lorenzo Tonelli sent a powerful header narrowly wide from the resulting corner. After those let-offs, Juve doubled their lead in 67th minute. Sampdoria goalkeeper Emil Audero could not hold Ronaldo's shot and Bernardeschi, who had replaced Danilo, snapped up the rebound. Ronaldo's evening ended on a sour note when he smashed a penalty against the crossbar after Alex Sandro was fouled.

Juventus wins ninth straight Serie A title after beating Sampdoria

Maurizio Sarri slammed a "messy" performance as Juventus fell to a shock 2-1 defeat at struggling Udinese on Thursday to miss the chance to seal the Serie A title for the ninth time in a row.

Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt had put the defending champions ahead&nbsp;three minutes before the break in Udine.

But a diving Ilija Nestorovski header seven minutes after the interval got Udinese level with Seko Fofana scoring the winner in injury time.

Juventus remain six points ahead of second-placed Atalanta with three games left to play, and have another chance to seal the title for the 36th time on the pitch at home against 14th-placed Sampdoria on Sunday.

Maurizio Sarri's side need just three more points and the coronation could come on Saturday, depending on the results of their rivals Atalanta, Inter Milan and Lazio. &nbsp;

But Juventus's performance against the minnows from the north-east was worrying ahead of their crunch Champions League last 16 game against Lyon on August 7.&nbsp;

"We paid for a lack of order after a good first half," said Sarri.

"We wanted to win at all costs, we were messy and we took the game on a dangerous track and lost it on 93 minutes because we wanted the three points.

"At this stage of the season it is difficult, we are all tired.&nbsp;We have lost aggression."

The game started with a clumsy header from Danilo, which almost resulted in an own goal before bouncing off Wojciech Szczesny's post.&nbsp;

Udinese keeper Juan Musso denied Paulo Dybala -- who was wearing the Juventus captain's armband -- after 13 minutes with Ronaldo's long-range effort wide before De Ligt broke through, smashing in after 42 minutes.

Back after the break, Nestorovski took advantage of an Alex Sandro error to equalise, getting his head to a cross from on-loan Watford midfielder Ken Sema to beat Szczesny.

And two minutes into extra time, Ivorian international Fofana capped a solid match by getting the better of De Ligt to all but ensure Udinese of staying in Serie A with his third goal this season.

It was a precious three points for Udinese who move up to 15th position, seven points clear of the relegation zone.

"Juventus wanted to win the championship, but we had a great game," said Fofana.

"We said beforehand that (relegation rivals) Lecce were going strong and we had to push forward."

Lazio, 11 points behind Juventus in fourth, play at Cagliari later on Thursday.

Maurizio Sarri slammed a "messy" performance as Juventus fell to a shock 2-1 defeat at struggling Udinese on Thursday to miss the chance to seal the Serie A title for the ninth time in a row.

Maurizio Sarri slammed a "messy" performance as Juventus fell to a shock 2-1 defeat at struggling Udinese on Thursday to miss the chance to seal the Serie A title for the ninth time in a row. Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt had put the defending champions ahead three minutes before the break in Udine. But a diving Ilija Nestorovski header seven minutes after the interval got Udinese level with Seko Fofana scoring the winner in injury time. Juventus remain six points ahead of second-placed Atalanta with three games left to play, and have another chance to seal the title for the 36th time on the pitch at home against 14th-placed Sampdoria on Sunday. Maurizio Sarri's side need just three more points and the coronation could come on Saturday, depending on the results of their rivals Atalanta, Inter Milan and Lazio. But Juventus's performance against the minnows from the north-east was worrying ahead of their crunch Champions League last 16 game against Lyon on August 7. "We paid for a lack of order after a good first half," said Sarri. "We wanted to win at all costs, we were messy and we took the game on a dangerous track and lost it on 93 minutes because we wanted the three points. "At this stage of the season it is difficult, we are all tired. We have lost aggression." The game started with a clumsy header from Danilo, which almost resulted in an own goal before bouncing off Wojciech Szczesny's post. Udinese keeper Juan Musso denied Paulo Dybala -- who was wearing the Juventus captain's armband -- after 13 minutes with Ronaldo's long-range effort wide before De Ligt broke through, smashing in after 42 minutes. Back after the break, Nestorovski took advantage of an Alex Sandro error to equalise, getting his head to a cross from on-loan Watford midfielder Ken Sema to beat Szczesny. And two minutes into extra time, Ivorian international Fofana capped a solid match by getting the better of De Ligt to all but ensure Udinese of staying in Serie A with his third goal this season. It was a precious three points for Udinese who move up to 15th position, seven points clear of the relegation zone. "Juventus wanted to win the championship, but we had a great game," said Fofana. "We said beforehand that (relegation rivals) Lecce were going strong and we had to push forward." Lazio, 11 points behind Juventus in fourth, play at Cagliari later on Thursday.

Juve miss chance to seal title after Udinese defeat

Atlanta has dropped points for the second time since the season's restart after drawing 1-1 against Hellas Verona on Saturday. The last time they lost points was against Juventus last weekend when they drew 2-2.&nbsp;

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Atlanta is currently tied on 71 points with second-placed Inter Milan, who play away at AS Roma on Sunday, and six points behind Juventus who also have a game in hand.

Duvan Zapata opened the score for Atlanta on the 50th minute.&nbsp;

But the visitors lost the lead within nine minutes after Matteo Pessina's strike equalled the score for Verona. Pessina was loaned by Atlanta to Verona. He made a late run into the box to pounce on Pierluigi Gollini's parry and fire home emphatically his fourth goal since the restart and seventh of the season.

Atalanta, who would have wrapped up Champions League qualification with victory, nearly took all three points in stoppage time when Mario Pasalic's effort from a cross went inches wide of the post.

Atlanta has dropped points for the second time since the season's restart after drawing 1-1 against Hellas Verona on Saturday. The last time they lost points was against Juventus last weekend when they drew 2-2.

Atlanta has dropped points for the second time since the season's restart after drawing 1-1 against Hellas Verona on Saturday. The last time they lost points was against Juventus last weekend when they drew 2-2. Also read: AC Milan coach brushes off Zlatan Ibrahimovic's angry reaction to substitution Atlanta is currently tied on 71 points with second-placed Inter Milan, who play away at AS Roma on Sunday, and six points behind Juventus who also have a game in hand. Duvan Zapata opened the score for Atlanta on the 50th minute. But the visitors lost the lead within nine minutes after Matteo Pessina's strike equalled the score for Verona. Pessina was loaned by Atlanta to Verona. He made a late run into the box to pounce on Pierluigi Gollini's parry and fire home emphatically his fourth goal since the restart and seventh of the season. Atalanta, who would have wrapped up Champions League qualification with victory, nearly took all three points in stoppage time when Mario Pasalic's effort from a cross went inches wide of the post.

Serie A: Second-placed Atalanta held to 1-1 draw at Verona

Cristiano Ronaldo has finally scored a free-kick for his Juventus side and played a role in beating Torino 4-1 in the Derby Della Mole on Saturday.

This was Ronaldo's first goal through a free-kick for Juventus, he had attempted 43 times but could not find the back of the net. Another milestone was achieved by Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who made a record 648th Serie A appearance. The 42-year-old goalkeeper overtook Paolo Maldini (previous record-holder) when he was picked for his first league game this year.&nbsp;

Torino have failed to beat Juventus in the past 12 attempts. Juventus top the Serie A table with 75 points, whereas, Torino struggle on 15th position with just 31 points.&nbsp;

"We took the lead right away and then scored again. Maybe we thought it was going to be easy but the penalty got us nervous and made us lose control of the game," said Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri.

"We had a confusing phase at the start of the second half and then, when the two teams were tired, our quality came out."

After scoring a free-kick, Ronaldo was relieved by it.

"I needed to score from a free-kick to get my confidence back," he said.

Paulo Dybala opened the score for the team by scoring his trademark goal.&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo has finally scored a free-kick for his Juventus side and played a role in beating Torino 4-1 in the Derby Della Mole on Saturday. This was Ronaldo's first goal through a free-kick for Juventus, he had attempted 43 times but could not find the back of the net.

Cristiano Ronaldo has finally scored a free-kick for his Juventus side and played a role in beating Torino 4-1 in the Derby Della Mole on Saturday. This was Ronaldo's first goal through a free-kick for Juventus, he had attempted 43 times but could not find the back of the net. Another milestone was achieved by Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who made a record 648th Serie A appearance. The 42-year-old goalkeeper overtook Paolo Maldini (previous record-holder) when he was picked for his first league game this year. Torino have failed to beat Juventus in the past 12 attempts. Juventus top the Serie A table with 75 points, whereas, Torino struggle on 15th position with just 31 points. "We took the lead right away and then scored again. Maybe we thought it was going to be easy but the penalty got us nervous and made us lose control of the game," said Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri. "We had a confusing phase at the start of the second half and then, when the two teams were tired, our quality came out." After scoring a free-kick, Ronaldo was relieved by it. "I needed to score from a free-kick to get my confidence back," he said. Paulo Dybala opened the score for the team by scoring his trademark goal.

Serie A: Ronaldo and Dybala star as Juventus beat Torina 4-1; Buffon hits another milestone

Juventus bounced back to winning ways in Serie A after Cristiano Ronald and Paulo Dybala found the back of the net in early minutes of the game against Bologna. Turin giants' 2-0 win over Bologna has put them four points clear of Lazio on top of the Serie A table.

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Ronaldo has been on a poor run after missing a penalty against AC Milan in the Italian Cup and losing 4-2 on penalties against Napoli in the finals. But the five-time Ballon d'Or winner made no mistake in this match.&nbsp;

He converted a spot-kick earned by Matthijs de Ligt after 23 minutes for his 26th goal for Juventus in all competitions this season.

In the 36th minute of the game, Dybala scored after Federico Bernardeschi's back-heel flick as Juventus, chasing a ninth consecutive Scudetto, opened up a four-point lead on second-placed Lazio.

"We need confidence and this victory will help us," said Dybala.

"It's not easy to be brilliant right now, we hadn't been playing for a long time.

"If we had won the (Italian Cup) final everyone would have complimented us because on a tactical level we have had a great game, even if we were not brilliant, but we conceded little.

"Today we played a great game, even if after 2-0 we gave up a bit."

Second-placed Lazio travels north to fourth-placed Atalanta in Bergamo on Wednesday, looking to keep their bid for a first Serie A title in two decades on track.

Inter Milan, in third, are nine points away from Juventus, and will next play Sassuolo.

Juventus bounced back to winning ways in Serie A after Cristiano Ronald and Paulo Dybala found the back of the net in early minutes of the game against Bologna. Turin giants' 2-0 win over Bologna has put them four points clear of Lazio on top of the Serie A table.

Juventus bounced back to winning ways in Serie A after Cristiano Ronald and Paulo Dybala found the back of the net in early minutes of the game against Bologna. Turin giants' 2-0 win over Bologna has put them four points clear of Lazio on top of the Serie A table. Also read: NASCAR community comes together for Bubba Wallace as FBI investigates noose Ronaldo has been on a poor run after missing a penalty against AC Milan in the Italian Cup and losing 4-2 on penalties against Napoli in the finals. But the five-time Ballon d'Or winner made no mistake in this match. He converted a spot-kick earned by Matthijs de Ligt after 23 minutes for his 26th goal for Juventus in all competitions this season. In the 36th minute of the game, Dybala scored after Federico Bernardeschi's back-heel flick as Juventus, chasing a ninth consecutive Scudetto, opened up a four-point lead on second-placed Lazio. "We need confidence and this victory will help us," said Dybala. "It's not easy to be brilliant right now, we hadn't been playing for a long time. "If we had won the (Italian Cup) final everyone would have complimented us because on a tactical level we have had a great game, even if we were not brilliant, but we conceded little. "Today we played a great game, even if after 2-0 we gave up a bit." Second-placed Lazio travels north to fourth-placed Atalanta in Bergamo on Wednesday, looking to keep their bid for a first Serie A title in two decades on track. Inter Milan, in third, are nine points away from Juventus, and will next play Sassuolo.

Serie A: Ronaldo, Dybala star as Juventus win easy against Bologna

Juventus's Serie A supremacy faces a stiff test with the champions just one point ahead of Lazio as the Italian league kicks off again this weekend following a three-month shutdown.

A return had looked unthinkable back in April as Italy counted their daily coronavirus deaths in the hundreds for nearly 35,000 victims in the country.

But the situation has improved with strict health protocols in place and all matches being played behind closed doors.

Four postponed games will take place first this weekend involving teams at the epicentre of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Atalanta host Sassuolo in Bergamo on Sunday, and Inter Milan are at home against Sampdoria.

On Saturday, Torino host Parma and Cagliari travel to Hellas Verona.

Next week all teams will have 12 games left to play with Juventus at Bologna on Monday, and Lazio travelling to Atalanta on Wednesday.

Maurizio Sarri's Juventus fell in the Italian Cup final to Napoli on penalties midweek, having also lost the Italian SuperCup to Lazio in December.

"Ronaldo, (Paulo) Dybala and our great soloists lack that little bit of brilliance, but I consider it quite normal in this period," said Sarri.&nbsp;

"I didn't say anything to the players, we were all very angry and disappointed and I think it's better to be silent right now."

Sarri's woes have been compounded with Brazilian defender Alex Sandro tearing a knee ligament against Napoli and Sami Khedira picking up a potentially serious tendon problem.

Argentine forward Gonzalo Higuain and captain Giorgio Chiellini are also not yet at full fitness.

<h2>- Ronaldo effect -</h2>

Juventus will be counting on their top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo to react after suffering two defeats in a final for the first time in his career, and missing a penalty in the Italian Cup semi-final.

Lazio's Ciro Immobile has scored 27 goals this season, six more than Ronaldo, as the in-form Romans target their third Scudetto and first in two decades.

Simone Inzaghi's side have already beaten Juventus twice this season, in the Italian SuperCup final and 3-1 in the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

The top two teams will meet in Turin on July 20.

Inter Milan are third, nine points behind Juventus. Inter lost to Lazio (2-1) and Juventus (2-0) just before the suspension.

"If I have to find a positive part of this crisis, it's that I've had time to focus and try to find different areas in which the team can improve," said coach Antonio Conte.

Atalanta occupy the final Champions League berth, three points ahead of Roma, with Napoli sixth a further six points back.

<h2>- Maths madness -</h2>

While the championship resumes the question remains of what happens in the case of another suspension.

Plan B provides for play-offs, the format of which remains to be defined.

A final decision could open the way to use a complicated algorithm devised by the federation to establish the final ranking.&nbsp;

Who would qualify for the Champions League or the Europa League? Who would go to Serie B?&nbsp;

Very simple: PF = PT + (MPc x NPc) + (MPt x NPt)!&nbsp;

This formula means that the total points will be calculated taking into account those obtained at the time of the interruption, plus a simulation based on the average points taken at home and away multiplied by the number of matches still to play.

Got it?

It was even considered at one point to take into account the number of goals scored home and away, for an even more intimidating formula: PF = PT + 0,90 x [(MPc x NPc ) + (MPt x NPt)] + 0,10 x (iag x Δr).

"This is madness. We are at the 'Normale' of Pisa," said FIGC president Gabriele Gravina, referring to the prestigious Tuscan university, which has given Italy three Nobel Prize winners and two Presidents.&nbsp;

But one sticking point was cleared up Thursday with the Italian government agreeing to ease quarantine restrictions in the case of a positive test with only the infected person isolated.

The squad and staff will be closely monitored and a quick test performed on the whole team on match day, boosting hopes that the championship will be concluded.

Fixtures (all times GMT):

Saturday&nbsp;

Torino v Parma (1730), Verona v Cagliari (1945)

Sunday

Atalanta v Sassuolo (1730), Inter Milan v Sampdoria (1945)

Monday

Lecce v AC Milan (1730), Fiorentina v Brescia (1730), Bologna v Juventus (1945)

Tuesday

SPAL v Cagliari (1730), Verona v Napoli (1730), Torino v Udinese (1845), Genoa v Parma (1945)

&nbsp;

Wednesday

Inter Milan v Sassuolo (1730), Atalanta v Lazio (1945), Rome v Sampdoria (1945)

Juventus's Serie A supremacy faces a stiff test with the champions just one point ahead of Lazio as the Italian league kicks off again this weekend following a three-month shutdown.

Juventus's Serie A supremacy faces a stiff test with the champions just one point ahead of Lazio as the Italian league kicks off again this weekend following a three-month shutdown. A return had looked unthinkable back in April as Italy counted their daily coronavirus deaths in the hundreds for nearly 35,000 victims in the country. But the situation has improved with strict health protocols in place and all matches being played behind closed doors. Four postponed games will take place first this weekend involving teams at the epicentre of the COVID-19 outbreak. Atalanta host Sassuolo in Bergamo on Sunday, and Inter Milan are at home against Sampdoria. On Saturday, Torino host Parma and Cagliari travel to Hellas Verona. Next week all teams will have 12 games left to play with Juventus at Bologna on Monday, and Lazio travelling to Atalanta on Wednesday. Maurizio Sarri's Juventus fell in the Italian Cup final to Napoli on penalties midweek, having also lost the Italian SuperCup to Lazio in December. "Ronaldo, (Paulo) Dybala and our great soloists lack that little bit of brilliance, but I consider it quite normal in this period," said Sarri. "I didn't say anything to the players, we were all very angry and disappointed and I think it's better to be silent right now." Sarri's woes have been compounded with Brazilian defender Alex Sandro tearing a knee ligament against Napoli and Sami Khedira picking up a potentially serious tendon problem. Argentine forward Gonzalo Higuain and captain Giorgio Chiellini are also not yet at full fitness. - Ronaldo effect - Juventus will be counting on their top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo to react after suffering two defeats in a final for the first time in his career, and missing a penalty in the Italian Cup semi-final. Lazio's Ciro Immobile has scored 27 goals this season, six more than Ronaldo, as the in-form Romans target their third Scudetto and first in two decades. Simone Inzaghi's side have already beaten Juventus twice this season, in the Italian SuperCup final and 3-1 in the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. The top two teams will meet in Turin on July 20. Inter Milan are third, nine points behind Juventus. Inter lost to Lazio (2-1) and Juventus (2-0) just before the suspension. "If I have to find a positive part of this crisis, it's that I've had time to focus and try to find different areas in which the team can improve," said coach Antonio Conte. Atalanta occupy the final Champions League berth, three points ahead of Roma, with Napoli sixth a further six points back. - Maths madness - While the championship resumes the question remains of what happens in the case of another suspension. Plan B provides for play-offs, the format of which remains to be defined. A final decision could open the way to use a complicated algorithm devised by the federation to establish the final ranking. Who would qualify for the Champions League or the Europa League? Who would go to Serie B? Very simple: PF = PT + (MPc x NPc) + (MPt x NPt)! This formula means that the total points will be calculated taking into account those obtained at the time of the interruption, plus a simulation based on the average points taken at home and away multiplied by the number of matches still to play. Got it? It was even considered at one point to take into account the number of goals scored home and away, for an even more intimidating formula: PF = PT + 0,90 x [(MPc x NPc ) + (MPt x NPt)] + 0,10 x (iag x Δr). "This is madness. We are at the 'Normale' of Pisa," said FIGC president Gabriele Gravina, referring to the prestigious Tuscan university, which has given Italy three Nobel Prize winners and two Presidents. But one sticking point was cleared up Thursday with the Italian government agreeing to ease quarantine restrictions in the case of a positive test with only the infected person isolated. The squad and staff will be closely monitored and a quick test performed on the whole team on match day, boosting hopes that the championship will be concluded. Fixtures (all times GMT): Saturday Torino v Parma (1730), Verona v Cagliari (1945) Sunday Atalanta v Sassuolo (1730), Inter Milan v Sampdoria (1945) Monday Lecce v AC Milan (1730), Fiorentina v Brescia (1730), Bologna v Juventus (1945) Tuesday SPAL v Cagliari (1730), Verona v Napoli (1730), Torino v Udinese (1845), Genoa v Parma (1945) Wednesday Inter Milan v Sassuolo (1730), Atalanta v Lazio (1945), Rome v Sampdoria (1945)

Juventus supremacy under threat as Serie A returns

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