09 April 2017
Three points against Chievo saw Juve take another small step towards the Serie A title but most of the post-match chat inevitably focused on the Bianconeri's next hurdle in the shape of Barcelona – and Stephan Lichtsteiner was no different.
“It was important for us to beat Chievo and put pressure on Roma,” the Swiss full-back stressed after playing his part – and setting up the second goal – in Juve's 2-0 success on Saturday night.
“Of course the game against Barca is on our minds because we've been looking forward to it for ages. It's going to be really difficult but we can't wait to get stuck in. It's the sort of game that sends motivation levels through the roof.
“We're confident because we're enjoying a good spell of form. Barca aren't always watertight at the back and with the formation we're playing at the moment we're very dangerous going forward.
“We have to press intelligently but also know when to wait for them and make sure we don't allow them any space because their strikers can be a real handful if you have to deal with them one on one.
“Hopefully we'll be able to produce two top performances and make it through to the last four.
“It's hard to say whether we'll manage to win the lot this season but it's certainly our aim.”
Asked about Paulo Dybala, who produced a dazzling display against Chievo, Stephan said: “I'm not a coach so it's hard for me to comment on his potential. All I can say is he's a phenomenal player who's got everything he needs to go on and have a fantastic career.”
