Real Madrid vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League 2014-15, Preview: Can Italian champions turn around UCL fortunes

Washington : It is the last four of the Champions League and if the history of the competition is anything go by, it is goals conceded more than the ones scored that plays a significant impact in the complexion of the tie. With the away goals having a telling say, maintaining shape in defence will be key to Juventus’ success.The last time the Biconneri reached the summit event of the UEFA Champions League, it was in the heady days of Alessandro Del Piero’s side in 2003. They were defeated on penalties by AC Milan in what was an all-Italian final.12 years on, having played a significant part in the shameful Calciopoli scandal in the mid-2000s, the club was relegated to Serie B. Icons like Del Piero, David Trezeguet and Gianluigi Buffon stayed with the club. After earning promotion, the road wasn’t easy and they were faltering in the league, struggling to regain lost glory. Players came and left and so did the managers and there was no plan in place for the days ahead. A new stadium and a club legend appointed as the manager, fortunes changed overnight.Juventus found themselves oozing class in all areas of the pitch. The fourth consecutive league title has been wrapped up but glory in the Champions League will is now the side’s Achilles Heel. A couple of years ago, Juve were outclassed by Bayern Munich in both legs despite having all the ingredients of the current side. As for skipper Buffon, this is one crown missing from his glittering cabinet.