Juventus star player Cristiano Ronaldo has reached another milestone as he became the first player to score 400 goals in Europe's top five leagues.

Despite his stunning goal, Juventus dropped points for the first time this season as their perfect start came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-thinking-about-man-utd-as-perfect-serie-a-run-ends-172598"> earned a 1-1</a>.

Ronaldo's fifth Serie A goal for Juve was added to his 84 Premier League strikes for Manchester United and 311 in La Liga for Real Madrid.

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👏⚽️ <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> is now the first ever player to score 4️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ goals in the five major European leagues.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JuveGenoa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JuveGenoa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CR7JUVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CR7JUVE</a> <a href="https://t.co/ETSFUA1w1C">pic.twitter.com/ETSFUA1w1C</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1053745195207061504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Cristiano Ronaldo gave Juventus a deserved lead in a dominant first half when he apped in after Joao Cancelo's shot was blocked - having earlier hit the post with a header.

The hosts dominated most of the game out of their 21, only three were on target, all from Ronaldo.

The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was dampened after racist chants during Juve’s last home league game against Napoli resulted in a closure of the ‘Curva Sud’ section of the stadium. The Italian champions, though, were allowed to fill the seats with local school children.

Juventus star player Cristiano Ronaldo has reached another milestone as he became the first player to score 400 goals in Europe's top five leagues. Despite his stunning goal, Juventus dropped points for the first time this season as their perfect start came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1.

Juventus star player Cristiano Ronaldo has reached another milestone as he became the first player to score 400 goals in Europe's top five leagues. Despite his stunning goal, Juventus dropped points for the first time this season as their perfect start came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1. Ronaldo's fifth Serie A goal for Juve was added to his 84 Premier League strikes for Manchester United and 311 in La Liga for Real Madrid. 👏⚽️ @Cristiano is now the first ever player to score 4️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ goals in the five major European leagues.#JuveGenoa #CR7JUVE pic.twitter.com/ETSFUA1w1C — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) October 20, 2018 × Cristiano Ronaldo gave Juventus a deserved lead in a dominant first half when he apped in after Joao Cancelo's shot was blocked - having earlier hit the post with a header. The hosts dominated most of the game out of their 21, only three were on target, all from Ronaldo. The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was dampened after racist chants during Juve’s last home league game against Napoli resulted in a closure of the ‘Curva Sud’ section of the stadium. The Italian champions, though, were allowed to fill the seats with local school children.

Juve star Cristiano Ronaldo reaches another milestone

Juventus’ perfect start to the season came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1 Serie A draw on Ivan Juric’s return as coach.

The Croatian boss replaced Davide Ballardini before the international break for his third spell in charge of Genoa and he made an immediate impact as the Italian champions failed to record a victory for the first time in nine league games this season.

Cristiano Ronaldo gave Juventus a deserved lead in a dominant first half, but sloppy defending from the hosts allowed Daniel Bessa to draw Genoa level after the break and end Juve's winning streak at ten matches in all competitions.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri blamed his players for being sidetracked by their Champions League trip to Manchester United on Tuesday.

“It’s simple,” he told reporters. “Genoa did well not toexpose themselves, but these things shouldn’t happen. We played for 10 minutes and then started thinking about Manchester.

“We went from being frenetic to falling asleep and vice-versa. We should have had our mind on the job. "I think it’ll be a good lesson for us, as this is a wake-up call, so everyone can remember that nothing is to be taken for granted. Every match has to be won on the pitch in 90 minutes. Nothing is guaranteed or won before we’ve stepped on to the pitch.

“It’ll be very different with Manchester United, as we will both be playing to win. Genoa did well today to play in defence and try to stay in the game, but I have to say this was the biggest example of drifting out of the game that I’ve seen in my five years at Juventus.”

Ronaldo had come close to opening the scoring after just 14 minutes when he powered a header onto the post from a Juan Cuadrado cross.

The Portuguese opened his account just five minutes later, tapping in from close range after Genoa failed to clear their lines when Joao Cancelo’s shot took an awkward deflection inside the box.

The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was dampened after racist chants during Juve’s last home league game against Napoli resulted in a closure of the ‘Curva Sud’ section of the stadium. The Italian champions, though, were allowed to fill the seats with local school children.

Krzysztof Piatek, who leads the Serie A scoring charts with nine goals, tested Wojciech Szczesny from range before flashing a header wide as the visitors improved after the break and Juric’s side drew level when Daniel Bessa headed home from close range on 68 minutes after the Juve defence switched off.

There were further chances for Ronaldo, Miralem Pjanic and substitute Paulo Dybala but Juric’s players stood firm to earn an unexpected point.

Earlier, Roma suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to SPAL courtesy of an Andrea Petagna penalty and a Kevin Bonifazi header either side of the break. The result leaves the capital club in sixth place before Sunday’s games, 11 points adrift of leaders Juventus.

Juventus’ perfect start to the season came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1 Serie A draw on Ivan Juric’s return as coach. The Croatian boss replaced Davide Ballardini before the international break for his third spell in charge of Genoa and he made an immediate impact as the Italian champions failed to record a victory for the first time in nine league games this season.

Juventus’ perfect start to the season came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1 Serie A draw on Ivan Juric’s return as coach. The Croatian boss replaced Davide Ballardini before the international break for his third spell in charge of Genoa and he made an immediate impact as the Italian champions failed to record a victory for the first time in nine league games this season. Cristiano Ronaldo gave Juventus a deserved lead in a dominant first half, but sloppy defending from the hosts allowed Daniel Bessa to draw Genoa level after the break and end Juve's winning streak at ten matches in all competitions. Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri blamed his players for being sidetracked by their Champions League trip to Manchester United on Tuesday. “It’s simple,” he told reporters. “Genoa did well not toexpose themselves, but these things shouldn’t happen. We played for 10 minutes and then started thinking about Manchester. “We went from being frenetic to falling asleep and vice-versa. We should have had our mind on the job. "I think it’ll be a good lesson for us, as this is a wake-up call, so everyone can remember that nothing is to be taken for granted. Every match has to be won on the pitch in 90 minutes. Nothing is guaranteed or won before we’ve stepped on to the pitch. “It’ll be very different with Manchester United, as we will both be playing to win. Genoa did well today to play in defence and try to stay in the game, but I have to say this was the biggest example of drifting out of the game that I’ve seen in my five years at Juventus.” Ronaldo had come close to opening the scoring after just 14 minutes when he powered a header onto the post from a Juan Cuadrado cross. The Portuguese opened his account just five minutes later, tapping in from close range after Genoa failed to clear their lines when Joao Cancelo’s shot took an awkward deflection inside the box. The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was dampened after racist chants during Juve’s last home league game against Napoli resulted in a closure of the ‘Curva Sud’ section of the stadium. The Italian champions, though, were allowed to fill the seats with local school children. Krzysztof Piatek, who leads the Serie A scoring charts with nine goals, tested Wojciech Szczesny from range before flashing a header wide as the visitors improved after the break and Juric’s side drew level when Daniel Bessa headed home from close range on 68 minutes after the Juve defence switched off. There were further chances for Ronaldo, Miralem Pjanic and substitute Paulo Dybala but Juric’s players stood firm to earn an unexpected point. Earlier, Roma suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to SPAL courtesy of an Andrea Petagna penalty and a Kevin Bonifazi header either side of the break. The result leaves the capital club in sixth place before Sunday’s games, 11 points adrift of leaders Juventus.

Juventus 'thinking about Man Utd' as perfect Serie A run ends

Unstoppable Juventus maintained their perfect start to the season after 10 matches when first-half goals from Rodrigo Bentancur and Cristiano Ronaldo gave them a 2-0 win at Udinese in Serie A on Saturday.

Juventus, chasing an eighth successive league title, have 24 points from their eight matches in Serie A and have won their first two games in the Champions League. They are nine points ahead of second-placed Napoli who host Sassuolo on Sunday.

Uruguay midfielder Bentancur's goal was his first since joining Juventus at the start of last season while Ronaldo took his tally to four since his move from Real Madrid.

"From a technical point of view, this was one of our best matches, creating a lot and giving away very little," Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said.

"It's the first time this season we have gone two matches without conceding a goal and that's positive. Today, we passed the ball around very well (and) faster."

Juve dominated the opening half hour and broke through in the 33rd minute with a counter-attack as Bentancur set Joao Cancelo away on the right and headed in the Portugal full back's pinpoint cross.

Four minutes later, Mario Mandzukic won a loose ball in the penalty area and teed the ball up for Ronaldo to fire a venomous drive past Simone Scuffet.

Antonin Barak hit the post for Udinese and Kevin Lasagna had a shot cleared off the line either side of halftime but, otherwise, Juventus continued to dominate.

Federico Bernardeschi and Ronaldo were denied further goals by Scuffet who also tipped a Cancelo shot on to the crossbar.

World Cup winner Steven Nzonzi set AS Roma on their way to a 2-0 win at Empoli (five points) which lifted them to third (14) ahead of Sunday's games.

The French midfielder met a Lorenzo Pellegrini free kick with a glancing header to open the scoring nine minutes before halftime.

Ismael Bennacer struck a free kick against the crossbar for promoted Empoli who then missed a series of chances including a penalty which Francesco Caputo fired over the crossbar.

Empoli paid the price when Edin Dzeko followed up his hat-trick against Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League on Tuesday by latching on to Stephan El Shaarawy's through ball to score the second with five minutes left.

Cagliari (nine points) picked up their first home win of the season when headed goals from Joao Pedro and Leonardo Pavoletti, both from Lucas Castro crosses, gave them a 2-0 win over Bologna (7) in the afternoon match.

Unstoppable Juventus maintained their perfect start to the season after 10 matches when first-half goals from Rodrigo Bentancur and Cristiano Ronaldo gave them a 2-0 win at Udinese in Serie A on Saturday.

Unstoppable Juventus maintained their perfect start to the season after 10 matches when first-half goals from Rodrigo Bentancur and Cristiano Ronaldo gave them a 2-0 win at Udinese in Serie A on Saturday. Juventus, chasing an eighth successive league title, have 24 points from their eight matches in Serie A and have won their first two games in the Champions League. They are nine points ahead of second-placed Napoli who host Sassuolo on Sunday. Uruguay midfielder Bentancur's goal was his first since joining Juventus at the start of last season while Ronaldo took his tally to four since his move from Real Madrid. "From a technical point of view, this was one of our best matches, creating a lot and giving away very little," Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said. "It's the first time this season we have gone two matches without conceding a goal and that's positive. Today, we passed the ball around very well (and) faster." Juve dominated the opening half hour and broke through in the 33rd minute with a counter-attack as Bentancur set Joao Cancelo away on the right and headed in the Portugal full back's pinpoint cross. Four minutes later, Mario Mandzukic won a loose ball in the penalty area and teed the ball up for Ronaldo to fire a venomous drive past Simone Scuffet. Antonin Barak hit the post for Udinese and Kevin Lasagna had a shot cleared off the line either side of halftime but, otherwise, Juventus continued to dominate. Federico Bernardeschi and Ronaldo were denied further goals by Scuffet who also tipped a Cancelo shot on to the crossbar. World Cup winner Steven Nzonzi set AS Roma on their way to a 2-0 win at Empoli (five points) which lifted them to third (14) ahead of Sunday's games. The French midfielder met a Lorenzo Pellegrini free kick with a glancing header to open the scoring nine minutes before halftime. Ismael Bennacer struck a free kick against the crossbar for promoted Empoli who then missed a series of chances including a penalty which Francesco Caputo fired over the crossbar. Empoli paid the price when Edin Dzeko followed up his hat-trick against Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League on Tuesday by latching on to Stephan El Shaarawy's through ball to score the second with five minutes left. Cagliari (nine points) picked up their first home win of the season when headed goals from Joao Pedro and Leonardo Pavoletti, both from Lucas Castro crosses, gave them a 2-0 win over Bologna (7) in the afternoon match.

Cristiano Ronaldo on target again as Juve maintain perfect start

Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to play for Juventus against Udinese this weekend despite the rape claims made against him, coach Massimiliano Allegri said on Friday as the Italian champions try to maintain their perfect start to the Serie A season.&nbsp;

"Ronaldo is doing well, he is ready to play. His professionalism and his composure on and off the pitch are not in question," Allegri told a press conference on Friday.

"He is ready to return to action tomorrow."

US police said Monday they had re-opened an investigation into accusations by former American model Kathryn Mayorga that the Portuguese player raped her in a Las Vegas hotel in June 2009.

Ronaldo has strenuously denied the accusations.

"I've known Cristiano for three months now and for over 15 years of his career he has shown to be a great professional both on and off the pitch," said Allegri of the 33-year-old striker who joined the club from Real Madrid for 100 million euros ($117 million) during the summer.&nbsp;

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🎙 <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialAllegri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialAllegri</a>: "I've known <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> for three months now and for over 15 years of his career he has shown to be a great professional both on and off the pitch. He is ready to return to action tomorrow."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UdineseJuve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UdineseJuve</a> <a href="https://t.co/tOJt6Lq7g6">pic.twitter.com/tOJt6Lq7g6</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1048151575942848512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"He's dedicated and he's just as dedicated to social issues, which says it all."

Juventus travel to Udine in northeastern Italy, on the border with Slovenia, to face Udinese, who are 14th in the table.

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🎙 <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialAllegri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialAllegri</a>: "Playing away at Udinese is always a battle and we'll need to approach the match with focus and determination. On a technical level, it may not be the easiest on the eye."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UdineseJuve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UdineseJuve</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1048153179593080832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo was filmed preparing for the game on Thursday, with several Juventus players later posting a photo of a team dinner in a Turin restaurant, with a smiling Ronaldo seated between Blaise Matuidi and Federico Bernardeschi.&nbsp;

"It is normal that we help him during a delicate time, but he has broad enough shoulders to focus on tomorrow's game, go down onto the pitch and play well," said Allegri.&nbsp;

Amid the storm of sponsors' concerns, and the team's share price taking a hit, Juventus are trying to focus on their quest for an eighth straight league title.

They have a maximum 21 points from seven games, six points ahead of Carlo Ancelotti's Napoli, who they beat 3-1 in Turin last weekend with Ronaldo setting up all three goals.

"Tomorrow I could go with a front three of Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala and Cristiano Ronaldo, or alternatively one of them could be rested," said Allegri.

The Turin giants have also won both their Champions League games including last Tuesday's match against Swiss side Young Boys, with Ronaldo watching from the stands as he was suspended for a red card against Valencia.

"Tomorrow is a match that will ask a lot of the players both physically and mentally, so we must be prepared for that," Allegri said.

"(Udinese) have lost the last two matches, so we must not be complacent but make sure that we're on top of our game in order to enter the international break on a high."

Behind Juventus the battle for European places is very tight with Napoli, who are six points behind the champions in second. Just three points separate the third to eighth-placed teams.

Napoli, Roma and Inter Milan also all won their Champions League games during the week.

Napoli bounced back from their defeat in Turin with a last-gasp Lorenzo Insigne goal snatching a 1-0 win over Liverpool.

"It's an important victory because it shows our progression, notably on a psychological level," said Ancelotti ahead of Sunday's game at home against Sassuolo, joint third with 13 points.

Roma travel to Empoli looking for a third straight league win days after Edin Dzeko's hat-trick inspired a 5-0 win over Czech side Viktoria Plzen.

Eusebio Di Francesco's side slumped to ninth after a four-game winless streak, and a win over lowly Empoli would propel them further up the table.

Fiorentina, third with 13 points, face a stiff test at Lazio, in seventh.

Simone Inzaghi's side were stung by last week's derby defeat to Roma followed by a heavy 4-1 Europa League defeat at Eintracht Frankfurt.

Inter Milan, also on 13 points, travel to SPAL with city rivals AC Milan, 11th with a game in hand, hosting tailenders Chievo.

Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to play for Juventus against Udinese this weekend despite the rape claims made against him, coach Massimiliano Allegri said on Friday as the Italian champions try to maintain their perfect start to the Serie A season.

Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to play for Juventus against Udinese this weekend despite the rape claims made against him, coach Massimiliano Allegri said on Friday as the Italian champions try to maintain their perfect start to the Serie A season. "Ronaldo is doing well, he is ready to play. His professionalism and his composure on and off the pitch are not in question," Allegri told a press conference on Friday. "He is ready to return to action tomorrow." US police said Monday they had re-opened an investigation into accusations by former American model Kathryn Mayorga that the Portuguese player raped her in a Las Vegas hotel in June 2009. Ronaldo has strenuously denied the accusations. "I've known Cristiano for three months now and for over 15 years of his career he has shown to be a great professional both on and off the pitch," said Allegri of the 33-year-old striker who joined the club from Real Madrid for 100 million euros ($117 million) during the summer. 🎙 @OfficialAllegri: "I've known @Cristiano for three months now and for over 15 years of his career he has shown to be a great professional both on and off the pitch. He is ready to return to action tomorrow."#UdineseJuve pic.twitter.com/tOJt6Lq7g6 — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) October 5, 2018 × "He's dedicated and he's just as dedicated to social issues, which says it all." Juventus travel to Udine in northeastern Italy, on the border with Slovenia, to face Udinese, who are 14th in the table. 🎙 @OfficialAllegri: "Playing away at Udinese is always a battle and we'll need to approach the match with focus and determination. On a technical level, it may not be the easiest on the eye."#UdineseJuve — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) October 5, 2018 × Ronaldo was filmed preparing for the game on Thursday, with several Juventus players later posting a photo of a team dinner in a Turin restaurant, with a smiling Ronaldo seated between Blaise Matuidi and Federico Bernardeschi. "It is normal that we help him during a delicate time, but he has broad enough shoulders to focus on tomorrow's game, go down onto the pitch and play well," said Allegri. Amid the storm of sponsors' concerns, and the team's share price taking a hit, Juventus are trying to focus on their quest for an eighth straight league title. They have a maximum 21 points from seven games, six points ahead of Carlo Ancelotti's Napoli, who they beat 3-1 in Turin last weekend with Ronaldo setting up all three goals. "Tomorrow I could go with a front three of Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala and Cristiano Ronaldo, or alternatively one of them could be rested," said Allegri. The Turin giants have also won both their Champions League games including last Tuesday's match against Swiss side Young Boys, with Ronaldo watching from the stands as he was suspended for a red card against Valencia. "Tomorrow is a match that will ask a lot of the players both physically and mentally, so we must be prepared for that," Allegri said. "(Udinese) have lost the last two matches, so we must not be complacent but make sure that we're on top of our game in order to enter the international break on a high." Behind Juventus the battle for European places is very tight with Napoli, who are six points behind the champions in second. Just three points separate the third to eighth-placed teams. Napoli, Roma and Inter Milan also all won their Champions League games during the week. Napoli bounced back from their defeat in Turin with a last-gasp Lorenzo Insigne goal snatching a 1-0 win over Liverpool. "It's an important victory because it shows our progression, notably on a psychological level," said Ancelotti ahead of Sunday's game at home against Sassuolo, joint third with 13 points. Roma travel to Empoli looking for a third straight league win days after Edin Dzeko's hat-trick inspired a 5-0 win over Czech side Viktoria Plzen. Eusebio Di Francesco's side slumped to ninth after a four-game winless streak, and a win over lowly Empoli would propel them further up the table. Fiorentina, third with 13 points, face a stiff test at Lazio, in seventh. Simone Inzaghi's side were stung by last week's derby defeat to Roma followed by a heavy 4-1 Europa League defeat at Eintracht Frankfurt. Inter Milan, also on 13 points, travel to SPAL with city rivals AC Milan, 11th with a game in hand, hosting tailenders Chievo.

Cristiano Ronaldo ready to play for Juventus at Udinese despite rape claims

US sportswear giant Nike says it is "deeply concerned" by rape allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo and shares in Italian champions Juventus fell over five percent on the Italian stock exchange on Friday.

Portuguese star Ronaldo is one of the world's top athletes and boasts a number of lucrative sponsorship contracts.

But his relationship with Nike, which is rumoured to be worth $1 billion dollars (869 million euros), could be in jeopardy after police in Las Vegas announced this week they were reopening a rape case after allegations made by a former model, Kathryn Mayorga, relating to an incident in 2009.

"We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation," a Nike spokesman told AFP on Thursday.

According to Forbes magazine, Ronaldo is one of only three athletes to have been given a lifetime deal with Nike, joining an elite club that also includes NBA icons LeBron James and Michael Jordan.

EA Sports, for whom Ronaldo is a leading figure in their phenomenally successful FIFA video game market, also described the allegations as "concerning".

"We are closely monitoring the situation, as we expect cover athletes and ambassadors to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with EA's values," the group said in a statement.

Juventus reaction criticised

Ronaldo's move from Real Madrid to Juventus in the summer gave the Italian champions a huge boost, both on and off the field, as they continue their elusive bid for a first Champions League title since 1996. On September 20, shares rose 180 percent to a record level of over 1.80 euros.

But the Italian champions woke up to the sobering news on Friday that over five percent had been wiped off the value of their shares after the Milan stock exchange opened. At midday on Friday they were worth 1.25 euro a share.

Juventus have so far stood behind Ronaldo, but the Italian club's reaction to the issue has angered some fans.

The Portuguese striker "has shown in recent months his great professionalism and dedication, which is appreciated by everyone at Juventus", the club wrote on Twitter Thursday, breaking their silence over the allegations.

"The events allegedly dating back to almost 10 years ago do not change this opinion, which is shared by anyone who has come into contact with this great champion."

Juventus later posted a video on YouTube and Twitter showing Ronaldo working up a sweat as he trained with his teammates for Saturday's league game against Udinese.

"Juventus go for goal. Cristiano Ronaldo finds the target!" read the caption beside the video.

The defending Serie A champions' tweets were widely panned on social media as "shockingly dismissive and insensitive".

"You'd expect a more nuanced and sensitive approach from such a mega organisation," said one tweet.

Ronaldo has vehemently denied the accusations.

"I firmly deny the accusations being issued against me," he tweeted in English on Wednesday.

"Rape is an abominable crime that goes against everything that I am and believe in.

"My clear conscious (sic) will thereby allow me to await with tranquility the results of any and all investigations," he added on his Twitter feed, which has 75 million followers.

Portugal said Thursday Ronaldo will play no part in the country's next four internationals, but he was given backing from Portugal coach Fernando Santos and the president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Fernando Gomes.

Asked about the allegations, Santos said. "I know Cristiano Ronaldo very well and I fully believe his word when he says he would never commit a crime like this."

Gomes also spoke up for Ronaldo.

"I believe what he said... because I've known Ronaldo for many years and I can attest to his good character," Gomes said.

Mayorga's attorney Leslie Stovall told reporters his client had suffered years of trauma as a result of the alleged attack and found the courage to speak out thanks to the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and assault at the hands of powerful men.

Mayorga claims she was pressured into signing a non-disclosure agreement in 2010 to keep the alleged rape secret and is seeking at least $200,000 in penalties and damages.

US sportswear giant Nike says it is "deeply concerned" by rape allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo and shares in Italian champions Juventus fell over five percent on the Italian stock exchange on Friday.

US sportswear giant Nike says it is "deeply concerned" by rape allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo and shares in Italian champions Juventus fell over five percent on the Italian stock exchange on Friday. Portuguese star Ronaldo is one of the world's top athletes and boasts a number of lucrative sponsorship contracts. But his relationship with Nike, which is rumoured to be worth $1 billion dollars (869 million euros), could be in jeopardy after police in Las Vegas announced this week they were reopening a rape case after allegations made by a former model, Kathryn Mayorga, relating to an incident in 2009. "We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation," a Nike spokesman told AFP on Thursday. According to Forbes magazine, Ronaldo is one of only three athletes to have been given a lifetime deal with Nike, joining an elite club that also includes NBA icons LeBron James and Michael Jordan. EA Sports, for whom Ronaldo is a leading figure in their phenomenally successful FIFA video game market, also described the allegations as "concerning". "We are closely monitoring the situation, as we expect cover athletes and ambassadors to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with EA's values," the group said in a statement. Juventus reaction criticised Ronaldo's move from Real Madrid to Juventus in the summer gave the Italian champions a huge boost, both on and off the field, as they continue their elusive bid for a first Champions League title since 1996. On September 20, shares rose 180 percent to a record level of over 1.80 euros. But the Italian champions woke up to the sobering news on Friday that over five percent had been wiped off the value of their shares after the Milan stock exchange opened. At midday on Friday they were worth 1.25 euro a share. Juventus have so far stood behind Ronaldo, but the Italian club's reaction to the issue has angered some fans. The Portuguese striker "has shown in recent months his great professionalism and dedication, which is appreciated by everyone at Juventus", the club wrote on Twitter Thursday, breaking their silence over the allegations. "The events allegedly dating back to almost 10 years ago do not change this opinion, which is shared by anyone who has come into contact with this great champion." Juventus later posted a video on YouTube and Twitter showing Ronaldo working up a sweat as he trained with his teammates for Saturday's league game against Udinese. "Juventus go for goal. Cristiano Ronaldo finds the target!" read the caption beside the video. The defending Serie A champions' tweets were widely panned on social media as "shockingly dismissive and insensitive". "You'd expect a more nuanced and sensitive approach from such a mega organisation," said one tweet. Ronaldo has vehemently denied the accusations. "I firmly deny the accusations being issued against me," he tweeted in English on Wednesday. "Rape is an abominable crime that goes against everything that I am and believe in. "My clear conscious (sic) will thereby allow me to await with tranquility the results of any and all investigations," he added on his Twitter feed, which has 75 million followers. Portugal said Thursday Ronaldo will play no part in the country's next four internationals, but he was given backing from Portugal coach Fernando Santos and the president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Fernando Gomes. Asked about the allegations, Santos said. "I know Cristiano Ronaldo very well and I fully believe his word when he says he would never commit a crime like this." Gomes also spoke up for Ronaldo. "I believe what he said... because I've known Ronaldo for many years and I can attest to his good character," Gomes said. Mayorga's attorney Leslie Stovall told reporters his client had suffered years of trauma as a result of the alleged attack and found the courage to speak out thanks to the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and assault at the hands of powerful men. Mayorga claims she was pressured into signing a non-disclosure agreement in 2010 to keep the alleged rape secret and is seeking at least $200,000 in penalties and damages.

Nike 'deeply concerned' and Juventus shares drop amid Ronaldo rape claims

Cristiano Ronaldo was involved in all three of his team's goals as leaders Juventus came from behind to beat 10-man Napoli 3-1 in a Serie A top-of-the-table clash on Saturday to maintain their perfect start to the season.

Dries Mertens gave Napoli an early lead before Ronaldo provided a pinpoint cross for Mario Mandzukic to head in the equaliser and then set up an easy second for the Croat when his shot hit the post.

Ronaldo's goalbound header also provided the third Juve goal for Leonardo Bonucci after Napoli had left back Mario Rui sent off for a petulant kick at Paulo Dybala.

AS Roma upset the form book with a 3-1 derby win over neighbours Lazio, who had won their last five games in all competitions, while Inter Milan beat Cagliari 2-0 to notch their third league win in a row.

Leaders Juventus, aiming for an eighth title in a row, have 21 points from seven games, six clear of last season's runners-up Napoli. Sassuolo and Inter have 13 points followed by Lazio in fifth place on 12 and Roma in sixth on 11.

"Ronaldo is enjoying himself," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri. "He has integrated very well. His precision in the passing moves is exceptional. I think this was his best match of the season."

Piotr Zielinski fired against the post after six minutes as Napoli made a bright start and they were rewarded four minutes later.

Bonucci's risky diagonal ball out of defence was intercepted by Allan who quickly found Jose Callejon and the Spaniard laid the ball off for Mertens to tap in.

Juventus needed a piece of Ronaldo brilliance to get back into the game in the 26th minute. The Portuguese twisted and turned past Elseid Hysaj and then dropped a perfect cross onto the head of Mandzukic who powered a downward effort past David Ospina.

Ospina then got down well to stop a Ronaldo free kick and did even better to block the rebound to prevent Juve getting a quick second.

Four minutes after halftime, Ronaldo collected the ball on the edge of the area, fired a shot against the post and Mandzukic followed up to turn the rebound into the net.

Mario Rui was sent off for a second bookable offence after aiming a kick at Dybala and, although it seemed a fair decision, the Napoli players were enraged by the Argentine's theatrical reaction.

Napoli threatened an equaliser when Callejon got through but his shot was blocked by Wojciech Szczesny and Bonucci wrapped up the game, tapping in Ronaldo's header at the far post following a corner in the 75th minute.

Ronaldo could have had a goal himself but fired a shot into the side-netting after getting clear of the defence.

"We played well for the first 20 minutes, then our opponents took control of the game," said Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti. "We need to continue improving. We will be competitive right until the end."

Rome overcame their poor start to the season by beating Lazio for the seventh time in their last nine meetings.

Lorenzo Pellegrini back-heeled Roma ahead on the stroke of halftime, shortly after replacing the injured Javier Pastore.

But an awful mistake by Roma defender Federico Fazio allowed Lazio back into the match. The Argentine was dispossessed as he tried to dribble around Ciro Immobile, who ran on to fire the ball wide of Patrick Olsen for his first goal in a Rome derby.

But Roma were back in front within four minutes when Aleksandar Kolarov fired the free kick through a huge hole in the Lazio wall.

Defender Fazio completed the win, and atoned for his earlier mistake, by meeting a free kick with a towering header to score four minutes from time.

Argentine forward Lautaro Gonzalez headed Inter in front after 12 minutes at San Siro, his first goal for the club since his move from Racing Club, and Matteo Politano volleyed the second in the 89th minute.

Cristiano Ronaldo was involved in all three of his team's goals as leaders Juventus came from behind to beat 10-man Napoli 3-1 in a Serie A top-of-the-table clash on Saturday to maintain their perfect start to the season.

Cristiano Ronaldo was involved in all three of his team's goals as leaders Juventus came from behind to beat 10-man Napoli 3-1 in a Serie A top-of-the-table clash on Saturday to maintain their perfect start to the season. Dries Mertens gave Napoli an early lead before Ronaldo provided a pinpoint cross for Mario Mandzukic to head in the equaliser and then set up an easy second for the Croat when his shot hit the post. Ronaldo's goalbound header also provided the third Juve goal for Leonardo Bonucci after Napoli had left back Mario Rui sent off for a petulant kick at Paulo Dybala. AS Roma upset the form book with a 3-1 derby win over neighbours Lazio, who had won their last five games in all competitions, while Inter Milan beat Cagliari 2-0 to notch their third league win in a row. Leaders Juventus, aiming for an eighth title in a row, have 21 points from seven games, six clear of last season's runners-up Napoli. Sassuolo and Inter have 13 points followed by Lazio in fifth place on 12 and Roma in sixth on 11. "Ronaldo is enjoying himself," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri. "He has integrated very well. His precision in the passing moves is exceptional. I think this was his best match of the season." Piotr Zielinski fired against the post after six minutes as Napoli made a bright start and they were rewarded four minutes later. Bonucci's risky diagonal ball out of defence was intercepted by Allan who quickly found Jose Callejon and the Spaniard laid the ball off for Mertens to tap in. Juventus needed a piece of Ronaldo brilliance to get back into the game in the 26th minute. The Portuguese twisted and turned past Elseid Hysaj and then dropped a perfect cross onto the head of Mandzukic who powered a downward effort past David Ospina. Ospina then got down well to stop a Ronaldo free kick and did even better to block the rebound to prevent Juve getting a quick second. Four minutes after halftime, Ronaldo collected the ball on the edge of the area, fired a shot against the post and Mandzukic followed up to turn the rebound into the net. Mario Rui was sent off for a second bookable offence after aiming a kick at Dybala and, although it seemed a fair decision, the Napoli players were enraged by the Argentine's theatrical reaction. Napoli threatened an equaliser when Callejon got through but his shot was blocked by Wojciech Szczesny and Bonucci wrapped up the game, tapping in Ronaldo's header at the far post following a corner in the 75th minute. Ronaldo could have had a goal himself but fired a shot into the side-netting after getting clear of the defence. "We played well for the first 20 minutes, then our opponents took control of the game," said Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti. "We need to continue improving. We will be competitive right until the end." Rome overcame their poor start to the season by beating Lazio for the seventh time in their last nine meetings. Lorenzo Pellegrini back-heeled Roma ahead on the stroke of halftime, shortly after replacing the injured Javier Pastore. But an awful mistake by Roma defender Federico Fazio allowed Lazio back into the match. The Argentine was dispossessed as he tried to dribble around Ciro Immobile, who ran on to fire the ball wide of Patrick Olsen for his first goal in a Rome derby. But Roma were back in front within four minutes when Aleksandar Kolarov fired the free kick through a huge hole in the Lazio wall. Defender Fazio completed the win, and atoned for his earlier mistake, by meeting a free kick with a towering header to score four minutes from time. Argentine forward Lautaro Gonzalez headed Inter in front after 12 minutes at San Siro, his first goal for the club since his move from Racing Club, and Matteo Politano volleyed the second in the 89th minute.

Ronaldo sets up all three goals as Juve beat Napoli

Italy's talismanic goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon will play his last match for Juventus when they host Verona in Serie A on Saturday, he told reporters on Thursday, according to Italian media.

"Saturday will be my last game for Juventus. I think it's the best way to end this wonderful adventure," the 40-year-old said.

Buffon has been with Juventus since 2001.

Buffon said he changed his mind about retiring 15 days ago and has received job offers on and off the pitch.

He said that he will take time to decide his future.

Juve president Agnelli has confirmed the keeper is considering offers from other clubs.

"Any choice he makes, he'll have my full support. He has received many bids, both as player and off-pitch," he said.

The 40-year-old is regarded as an iconic figure of the world game, having won nine Serie A titles and the 1998-99 UEFA Cup among other prizes.

However, his greatest achievement came in 2006, when he helped Italy win the World Cup.

The 40-year-old is regarded as an iconic figure of the world game, having won nine Serie A titles and the 1998-99 UEFA Cup

Italy's talismanic goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon will play his last match for Juventus when they host Verona in Serie A on Saturday, he told reporters on Thursday, according to Italian media. "Saturday will be my last game for Juventus. I think it's the best way to end this wonderful adventure," the 40-year-old said. Buffon has been with Juventus since 2001. Buffon said he changed his mind about retiring 15 days ago and has received job offers on and off the pitch. He said that he will take time to decide his future. Juve president Agnelli has confirmed the keeper is considering offers from other clubs. "Any choice he makes, he'll have my full support. He has received many bids, both as player and off-pitch," he said. The 40-year-old is regarded as an iconic figure of the world game, having won nine Serie A titles and the 1998-99 UEFA Cup among other prizes. However, his greatest achievement came in 2006, when he helped Italy win the World Cup.

Italy's Gianluigi Buffon to play his last game for Juventus this Saturday

SS Napoli defeated Juventus in a dramatic fashion as Kalidou Koulibaly scored with a header in the 89th minute and stunned Serie A leaders Juventus on Sunday at Allianz Arena, Munich.

When the match started, players from both the team had red stripes on their cheek. Not only Juventus and Napoli players, but this trend was actively promoted this weekend by all Serie A players.

When the players entered the field with red marks on their face then the fans and spectators were surprised but after some time, the commentators revealed that it is a part of a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women.

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The players are sporting red marks on their face in support of a campaign against domestic violence 
 
?? <a href="https://twitter.com/SerieA_TIM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SerieA_TIM</a> <a href="https://t.co/aH6DrKQeWG">pic.twitter.com/aH6DrKQeWG</a>
— Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) <a href="https://twitter.com/en_sscnapoli/status/988131785300201472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The players were expressing solidarity with victims of domestic abuse.

We World Onlus, a humanitarian organisation teamed up with Serie A players to promote the campaign worldwide. So far, the campaign has been very successful in reaching worldwide audiences.

Also, the players should be applauded for taking part&nbspand encouraging the campaign even in the crucial matches.

Seria A teams took part in a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women

SS Napoli defeated Juventus in a dramatic fashion as Kalidou Koulibaly scored with a header in the 89th minute and stunned Serie A leaders Juventus on Sunday at Allianz Arena, Munich. When the match started, players from both the team had red stripes on their cheek. Not only Juventus and Napoli players, but this trend was actively promoted this weekend by all Serie A players. When the players entered the field with red marks on their face then the fans and spectators were surprised but after some time, the commentators revealed that it is a part of a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women. The players are sporting red marks on their face in support of a campaign against domestic violence ?? @SerieA_TIM pic.twitter.com/aH6DrKQeWG — Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) April 22, 2018 × The players were expressing solidarity with victims of domestic abuse. We World Onlus, a humanitarian organisation teamed up with Serie A players to promote the campaign worldwide. So far, the campaign has been very successful in reaching worldwide audiences. Also, the players should be applauded for taking part&nbspand encouraging the campaign even in the crucial matches.

Here is why Buffon, Dybala and other players were playing with red mark on their cheeks

Paulo Dybala scored in each half to give Juventus a 2-0 home win over Udinese and put them top of Serie A on Sunday as Napoli slipped to second following a 0-0 draw at Inter Milan.

Juventus, who are chasing a seventh successive league title, have 71 points from 27 games, with Napoli on 70 from 28 after a dour stalemate with Inter at the San Siro.

Dybala curled home a superb free kick from the edge of the area in the 20th minute to put Juventus ahead, and he was pulled down for a penalty later in the first half only for fellow Argentinian Gonzalo Higuain to miss the spot kick.

Dybala added his second four minutes after halftime, Higuain expertly holding up the ball before playing it into the path of the 24-year-old, who slotted it home right-footed.

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? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MondayMotivation?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MondayMotivation</a> ? <a href="https://t.co/hZ7yUODJ8m">pic.twitter.com/hZ7yUODJ8m</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/973144119261483010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

Inter defender Milan Skriniar missed the game's best chance in the late fixture as he headed against the post shortly after the break, with Napoli striker Lorenzo Insigne twice coming close in the latter stages.

The sudden death last week of Fiorentina captain Davide Astori cast a pall over Sunday's proceedings in Serie A.

Many of last weekend's matches were postponed following his passing and this week's games began with both silence and applause as the 31-year-old Italian international was remembered.

In the day's early kickoff, Vitor Hugo scored the only goal as Fiorentina beat Benevento 1-0 at the Artemio Franchi stadium in a game filled with emotional tributes to Astori, who was buried on Thursday.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgMGdZgAZUd/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">1️⃣1️⃣ lions. 1️⃣1️⃣ straight @seriea_tim wins. ??#FinoAllaFine #ForzaJuve #JuveUdinese</a>

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Lazio's Ciro Immobile scored both goals, including a superb backheel deep into stoppage time, to give his side a share of the spoils as they drew 2-2 away to Cagliari.

The brace puts Serie A top scorer Immobile on 24 goals from 24 games this season, six ahead of Inter's Mauro Icardi who has 18 in 22.

Having started the day second from bottom, Crotone hammered Sampdoria 4-1 at home to climb out of the relegation zone, with Marcello Trotta scoring twice and missing a penalty in an eventful outing for the home side.

Newcomers SPAL slipped into the bottom three following a 1-1 draw with fellow strugglers Sassuolo while Dutch midfielder Marten de Roon netted the winner seven minutes from time to give Atalanta a 1-0 victory at Bologna.

Sixth-placed AC Milan grabbed a last-gasp 1-0 win at Genoa after Portuguese substitute Andre Silva headed home Suso's stoppage-time cross.

Paulo Dybala scored in each half to give Juventus a 2-0 home win over Udinese and put them top of Serie A

Paulo Dybala scored in each half to give Juventus a 2-0 home win over Udinese and put them top of Serie A on Sunday as Napoli slipped to second following a 0-0 draw at Inter Milan. Juventus, who are chasing a seventh successive league title, have 71 points from 27 games, with Napoli on 70 from 28 after a dour stalemate with Inter at the San Siro. Dybala curled home a superb free kick from the edge of the area in the 20th minute to put Juventus ahead, and he was pulled down for a penalty later in the first half only for fellow Argentinian Gonzalo Higuain to miss the spot kick. Dybala added his second four minutes after halftime, Higuain expertly holding up the ball before playing it into the path of the 24-year-old, who slotted it home right-footed. ? #MondayMotivation ? pic.twitter.com/hZ7yUODJ8m — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) March 12, 2018 × Inter defender Milan Skriniar missed the game's best chance in the late fixture as he headed against the post shortly after the break, with Napoli striker Lorenzo Insigne twice coming close in the latter stages. The sudden death last week of Fiorentina captain Davide Astori cast a pall over Sunday's proceedings in Serie A. Many of last weekend's matches were postponed following his passing and this week's games began with both silence and applause as the 31-year-old Italian international was remembered. In the day's early kickoff, Vitor Hugo scored the only goal as Fiorentina beat Benevento 1-0 at the Artemio Franchi stadium in a game filled with emotional tributes to Astori, who was buried on Thursday. 1️⃣1️⃣ lions. 1️⃣1️⃣ straight @seriea_tim wins. ??#FinoAllaFine #ForzaJuve #JuveUdinese A post shared by Juventus Football Club (@juventus) on Mar 11, 2018 at 9:08am PDT × Lazio's Ciro Immobile scored both goals, including a superb backheel deep into stoppage time, to give his side a share of the spoils as they drew 2-2 away to Cagliari. The brace puts Serie A top scorer Immobile on 24 goals from 24 games this season, six ahead of Inter's Mauro Icardi who has 18 in 22. Having started the day second from bottom, Crotone hammered Sampdoria 4-1 at home to climb out of the relegation zone, with Marcello Trotta scoring twice and missing a penalty in an eventful outing for the home side. Newcomers SPAL slipped into the bottom three following a 1-1 draw with fellow strugglers Sassuolo while Dutch midfielder Marten de Roon netted the winner seven minutes from time to give Atalanta a 1-0 victory at Bologna. Sixth-placed AC Milan grabbed a last-gasp 1-0 win at Genoa after Portuguese substitute Andre Silva headed home Suso's stoppage-time cross.

Dybala double sends Juventus top of Serie A

Italian champions Juventus slumped to a 3-2 defeat at Sampdoria in Serie A on Sunday while hapless Benevento were denied their first point of the season when they lost 2-1 at home to Sassuolo in stoppage time.

Two second-half headers from Mauro Icardi gave Inter Milan a 2-0 win at home to Atalanta, which took them two points above Juve into second place to stand two points behind Napoli, and left the Argentine with 13 goals from as many games.

Federico Peluso&#39;s 94th-minute winner for Sassuolo, which came minutes after his team missed a penalty, meant bottom team Benevento were condemned to a record-extending 13th straight Serie A defeat.

Juve trailed 3-0 at Sampdoria before stoppage-time goals by Gonzalo Higuain, with a penalty, and Paulo Dybala made the score more respectable.

Juventus rested goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and defender Andrea Barzagli, who both confirmed their international retirements after playing in Monday&#39;s 0-0 draw with Sweden which meant Italy failed to qualify for next year&#39;s World Cup.

They missed a host of first-half chances then collapsed after the break as Samp maintained their perfect home record.

Duvan Zapata headed Sampdoria ahead in the 52nd minute, Lucas Torreira blasted the second and Gian Marco Ferrari turned in Fabio Quagliarella&#39;s cross from the byline for the third.

&quot;It was one of our best first halves of the season and we just needed to keep our cool in front of goal,&quot; said Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri. &quot;They scored three goals from four shots.&quot;

Icardi put Inter ahead in the 52nd minute against Atalanta when he got away from his marker to head in Antonio Candreva&#39;s free-kick and struck again with a superb glancing header from Danilo D&rsquo;Ambrosio&#39;s cross on the hour.

Napoli, 2-1 winners over visiting AC Milan on Saturday, lead the standings with 35 points from 13 games ahead of Inter on 33, with both teams still unbeaten. They are followed by Juventus on 31, AS Roma on 30 and Lazio with 28.

 
&quot;Good effort&quot;

Benevento gifted Sassuolo the lead after 57 minutes when Alessandro Matri was left to tap the ball into an empty net after a backpass was intercepted by Simone Missiroli.

In a game that summed up Benevento&#39;s season, Samuel Armenteros equalised eight minutes later but they almost immediately had Gaetano Letizia sent off for a second booking.

Benevento held out until added time when Sassuolo got a penalty for handball which Domenico Berardi smashed against the bar.

The home team&#39;s relief was short-lived, however, as Peluso headed in from a corner for the winner from the next attack, the second time Benevento have been beaten deep into stoppage time.

&ldquo;We put in a good effort and the attitude is there,&quot; said Benevento coach Roberto De Zerbi. &quot;It&#39;s our fault that we lost points again at the end - in those situations, the ball has to be cleared.&quot;

In other matches, Luca Rigoni&#39;s early goal gave Genoa a 1-0 win at Crotone and a winning start to Davide Ballardini&#39;s third stint as their coach after he replaced Ivan Juric.

Torino striker Andrea Belotti had a second-half penalty saved by Stefano Sorrentino as the Bulls were held 1-1 at home by Chievo, while Fiorentina&#39;s match at SPAL ended with the same scoreline and Cagliari won 1-0 at troubled Udinese.

Juve trailed 3-0 at Sampdoria before stoppage-time goals by Gonzalo Higuain, with a penalty, and Paulo Dybala made the score more respectable.

Italian champions Juventus slumped to a 3-2 defeat at Sampdoria in Serie A on Sunday while hapless Benevento were denied their first point of the season when they lost 2-1 at home to Sassuolo in stoppage time. Two second-half headers from Mauro Icardi gave Inter Milan a 2-0 win at home to Atalanta, which took them two points above Juve into second place to stand two points behind Napoli, and left the Argentine with 13 goals from as many games. Federico Peluso's 94th-minute winner for Sassuolo, which came minutes after his team missed a penalty, meant bottom team Benevento were condemned to a record-extending 13th straight Serie A defeat. Juve trailed 3-0 at Sampdoria before stoppage-time goals by Gonzalo Higuain, with a penalty, and Paulo Dybala made the score more respectable. Juventus rested goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and defender Andrea Barzagli, who both confirmed their international retirements after playing in Monday's 0-0 draw with Sweden which meant Italy failed to qualify for next year's World Cup. They missed a host of first-half chances then collapsed after the break as Samp maintained their perfect home record. Duvan Zapata headed Sampdoria ahead in the 52nd minute, Lucas Torreira blasted the second and Gian Marco Ferrari turned in Fabio Quagliarella's cross from the byline for the third. "It was one of our best first halves of the season and we just needed to keep our cool in front of goal," said Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri. "They scored three goals from four shots." Icardi put Inter ahead in the 52nd minute against Atalanta when he got away from his marker to head in Antonio Candreva's free-kick and struck again with a superb glancing header from Danilo D’Ambrosio's cross on the hour. Napoli, 2-1 winners over visiting AC Milan on Saturday, lead the standings with 35 points from 13 games ahead of Inter on 33, with both teams still unbeaten. They are followed by Juventus on 31, AS Roma on 30 and Lazio with 28. "Good effort" Benevento gifted Sassuolo the lead after 57 minutes when Alessandro Matri was left to tap the ball into an empty net after a backpass was intercepted by Simone Missiroli. In a game that summed up Benevento's season, Samuel Armenteros equalised eight minutes later but they almost immediately had Gaetano Letizia sent off for a second booking. Benevento held out until added time when Sassuolo got a penalty for handball which Domenico Berardi smashed against the bar. The home team's relief was short-lived, however, as Peluso headed in from a corner for the winner from the next attack, the second time Benevento have been beaten deep into stoppage time. “We put in a good effort and the attitude is there," said Benevento coach Roberto De Zerbi. "It's our fault that we lost points again at the end - in those situations, the ball has to be cleared." In other matches, Luca Rigoni's early goal gave Genoa a 1-0 win at Crotone and a winning start to Davide Ballardini's third stint as their coach after he replaced Ivan Juric. Torino striker Andrea Belotti had a second-half penalty saved by Stefano Sorrentino as the Bulls were held 1-1 at home by Chievo, while Fiorentina's match at SPAL ended with the same scoreline and Cagliari won 1-0 at troubled Udinese.

Football: Juventus beaten at Sampdoria, hapless Benevento lose in stoppage time

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