Juventus' Barzagli expects a tricky semi-final against Monaco

Juventus veteran defender Andrea Barzagli has advised his teammates not to underestimate their Champions League semi-final opponent Monaco, as he expects a tricky tie against a young side that plays attacking football.

The Italian football champions have been pitted against Monaco during the Champions League semi-final draw, while the other semi-final pits Madrid clubs, Real and Atletico.

Several football experts have been labelling Monaco an easy draw for Juventus, considering that Real and Atletico have more firepower and experience in dealing with big European matches.

But Barzagli, who is eying a sixth consecutive Serie A title with Juventus, feels that Monaco have a potent attack to cause them trouble. The first leg of the Champions League tie will be played in Monaco on May 3 and the return leg in Turin on May 9.

"It's true that Monaco might have less quality on paper than Real Madrid or Atletico, but it will be a very tricky match," Barzagli told Juventus' website on Monday.

"They're a young side, they have dangerous forwards and they play good, attacking football. As they said when the draw was made, they have nothing to lose," the 35-year-old added.

"All semi-finals are dangerous and we never underestimate anyone -- and we definitely won't do for Monaco."

Juventus are eight points clear at the top of the Serie A table with only eight round of matches to go. But the Italian international is not taking anything for granted.

"The league isn't over yet. We have to make it mathematically certain," he pointed out.

When the talks veered towards his retirement plans, the 2006 World Cup winner insisted that he is determined to play on for as long as his body will allow.

"I'll keep playing for as long as I can. When somebody tells me I can't do it anymore, I'll think about calling it a day. (Juventus veteran goalkeeper) Gigi Buffon is always telling me that!"

--IANS

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