From the papers

June 10, 1999
Juventus Official Site

Italy could do no better than draw with Switzerland after a disappointing performance in Lausanne last night. The sports newspapers came down heavily on them - the Azzurri's poor display featured on all the front pages.

Gazzetta dello Sport's headline says that Italy did not have much to offer and that Saturday's brilliant 4-0 win over Wales had drained their energy: "In Lausanne Italy only performed well in patches and as the match went on were gradually worn down by the aggressive Swiss. Italy were even in danger of caving in. Italy keeper Buffon saved the day on more than one occasion. But in terms of the group situation, the Azzurri are still firmly in the driving seat and one step closer to qualifying for EURO 2000."

"Kovacevic: here I am at Juve" is the headline referring to Real Sociedad forward Darko Kovacevic's move to Juventus and "Vieri to Inter: the deal has been signed." Inside the paper there are more details on Juventus' new signing: "Juve pay 37bn lira (around £13m) for Kovacevic. Agreement reached with Real Sociedad." Kovacevic has apparently not yet signed the deal himself.

Corriere dello Sport is even harsher on Italy's performance: "Vieri and Italy useless. Mr 90bn lira (around £31m) was injured and booed. Then he launched a withering attack on Lazio president Sergio Cragnotti. Panucci and Fuser angry after being taken off. Not even one shot in the second half." On Juventus: "Having missed out on Vieri, Umberto Agnelli says Del Piero, Davids and Inzaghi are not for sale. After (signing) Kovacevic, the bidding has started with Roma to sign Giannichedda." Other market news: "Chiesa looks like going to Fiorentina. Chelsea (who are also after Del Vecchio) offer 30bn lira (around £10m) for Ventola."

Tuttosport's front page is all about Juventus' new three-man attack: "Juve: what a trio. With the Serb (Kovacevic) signed, talks with Anelka, Salas and Nedved are ongoing." Italy: "Vieri is furious, Italy unable to score. Christian Vieri makes accusations against Cragnotti. A 0-0 draw in Switzerland, but Italy are one step closer to qualification for EURO 2000."

In Italian football: "Historic moment: the dual referee system to make its debut in the Coppa Italia. The experiment will start from October 13 at the end of the group phase and when the knock-out matches with Serie A teams start. A total of 46 matches will be played under the new refereeing system and all of them will be broadcasted live."
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