Zambrotta wary of Czech threat

By Brian Brownstein

Juventus FC full-back Gianluca Zambrotta fears Liverpool FC striker Milan Baroš could be the man to undo the Bianconeri's notoriously mean defence as the two sides prepare to do battle in the first leg of their quarter-final of the UEFA Champions League.

Czech threat
The Turin giants have only conceded two goals in eight matches this term in Europe's premier club competition, and will be looking to maintain their enviable defensive record at Anfield on Tuesday night. With Fernando Morientes cup-tied, however, Zambrotta believes they will have to keep a close eye on Baroš if their stubborn reputation is to remain intact.

Top striker
"Morientes is a tremendous striker, one of the best in Europe, and his absence will be good news for us," Zambrotta told uefa.com. "However, Liverpool's best player is Milan Baroš. I know him well; he always plays very well for the Czech Republic. With Baroš fit they are even stronger than when they had Michael Owen in attack."

Latin influence
As well as having the Czech Republic hitman on board, there is also a strong Spanish contingent at Liverpool, led by the Merseysiders' Madrid-born manager Rafael Benítez. However, Zambrotta firmly dismisses the notion that Juventus will find it harder to overcome the English Premiership side because of their Latin influence.

Spanish wins
"Liverpool are dangerous but the fact they have some Spanish characteristics and some Spanish players is no problem for us," he said. "Don't forget that we have eliminated Real Madrid [CF] twice [once this year and also two years ago] and the year before last we beat FC Barcelona. So, maybe this makes it easier for us!"

Italian foes
Zambrotta is delighted to have avoided fellow Italian teams AC Milan and FC Internazionale Milano in the draw. Juventus cannot meet one of the Serie A sides until the final and with defeat to Milan in the 2003 Champions League final still fresh in his mind, the left-back prefers it that way.

Chelsea threat
He said: "For us it is very important to have avoided Milan or Inter in the draw. Champions League derby games are even more stressful than a normal European clash. In my opinion Milan and Inter are two of the favorites for the final, along with Chelsea [FC] and us.

'Sad memory'
"The 2003 final defeat is a sad memory. I still remember the emotion before and during the match. Then, extra time and penalties - they are pictures that are still impressed on my mind. I believe we are tough enough to move on from that, forget the bad feelings and try to learn from that final."

Difficult opponents
Zambrotta's self-belief is shared by team-mate Marcelo Zalayeta, who also believes this could be Juventus' year. The Uruguayan has respect for Liverpool, yet having scored the winner for the 'Old Lady' against Madrid in the Round of 16, the 28-year-old is confident he can cause similar damage to the Reds' Champions League aspirations. Zalayeta said: "Liverpool are not the strongest team in England, but if they reached the quarter-finals, there must be a good reason. They have that Spanish flair and some extremely dangerous players. Against English teams, there is no time to think and that makes them difficult opponents.

Gerrard danger
"But if we can contain Steven Gerrard, and play our own game, we can win from all parts of the pitch," he added. "It is going to be a game where Juventus will fight to control the midfield and strike with short passes inside the box."