Bologna-Juventus: Player Ratings in Black and White

Juventus went into this game knowing a win might be enough to see them edge back into fourth place, and in contention for the Champions League berth they so desperately need.  They secured the points here, thanks to goals from Diego and Antonio Candreva, enough to give them a 2-1 win.  The team selection, and particularly the substitutions, were made with Thursday night's return leg with Ajax in mind.  Here are today's ratings.

Gianluigi Buffon: 6.5

A solid effort between the posts for the Italy No. 1, who has more than made amends for his horror showing against Genoa.  A number of important saves, with just a couple of scares.  He did enough to protect the lead.

Zdenek Grygera: 6.5

Not as effective as in midweek against Ajax but still made a number of crucial challenges.  He looks much more comfortable as part of the three man defence than either Cannavaro or Zebina.

Nicola Legrottaglie: 6

The poorest of Juve's defensive trio today, largely due to the torrid time Zalayeta gave him.  Was alive to a couple of dangerous balls but still finding his way in the new formation.

Giorgio Chiellini: 7

Was the Bianconeri's most effective defender yet again.  Contained Adailton well and covered for his struggling teammates on a number of occasions to thwart ex-Juve man Zalayeta.

Hasan Salihamidzic: 5.5

Looked every year of his age today, and obviously played due to his European suspension following his first leg red card. Contributed little to attack or defence and will struggle to even be on the bench in coming weeks following Camoranesi's return to action.

Felipe Melo: 6

Played well today and linked the midfield to attack well, combining effectively with Diego on a number of occasions.  Still not completely assured when Sissoko is out of the lineup, but a vastly improved performance compared to any this year.  Melo was unlucky that his effort was not rewarded when he had a chance ruled out for offside.

Claudio Marchisio: 6.5

Another player struggling to find his previous high level of performance, but being shifted around the formation seemingly every game is hurting his contribution.  Did well in attack and put the effort into his defending.  If he can step up a little more he will make himself an automatic choice in the new-look midfield.

Paolo De Ceglie: 6.5

Yet again, another mature performance from the youngster, who is making it extremely difficult for Zaccheroni to leave him out.  Still a long way off the finished article, but his displays will ensure Marchisio doesn't need to play wide left again, and keep Fabio Grosso on the bench.

Diego: 7.5

Continues his weekly improvement again under the new regime, and his early season highs are not too far away now.  Scored the early opener and looked tough to handle until his substitution in the second half, made with Ajax in mind.  Must repay the coach by playing this well on Thursday night.

Alessandro Del Piero: 7.5

Another game another assist for the captain.  After having a hand in both Amauri's midweek goals he continued in the same vein, being a constant threat to the Bologna defence, never giving them time to mark him, drifting wide and deep to confuse their setup.  Not satisfied with that, he came up with the goods yet again with another piece of fantastic vision to play in Candreva for the winner.  Was also unlucky to be flagged offside in the build up to Melo's disallowed effort.  Player of the Day.

Amauri: 6

No goal today, but he worked hard with his back to the goal to hold up the ball and bring the midfield into the game.  Has to realize he needs to contribute more, but is still performing far better after his recent flurry of goals.

Substitutes

Momo Sissoko: 6

Came on for Marchisio to solidify the midfield and did just that.

Antonio Candreva: 6

Aside from the goal, did very little. Tries too hard to impress which usually ends up with the opposition having the ball after poor shot selection or a misguided "hollywood" ball.

Mauro Camoranesi: NM

No time to contribute but good to see him back after so long out.