12 August 2017
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon knows a thing or two about the Italian Super Cup. The legendary shot stopper is tied for the most winners' medals in the competition's history having tasted success five times with Juventus and once with Parma.
With victory on Sunday, he can take the record all by himself and he knows what a win would mean for the team.
Here's what Buffon had to say at today's press conference from the Stadio Olimpico in Rome:
NEW YEAR, NEW EXCITEMENT
Sunday's match marks the competitive start of a remarkable 17th season in the black and white for Juve's iconic goalkeeper, and if you think that many years have left Buffon jaded to another Italian Super Cup, think again.
“I have to say that at the start of this season, I’m feeling a strange sense of euphoria and happiness. That’s probably down to that ‘wild streak’ if you like, that has always been a part of my character and has taken me to where I am now.
"Tomorrow’s is a hugely important match for us and for everyone associated with Juventus. I want to keep tasting these types of emotions – that won’t last forever – in the best way possible.”
NOT TAKING LAZIO LIGHTLY
Despite the fact that Juventus have enjoyed much success against their Super Cup opponents in recent years, Buffon knows they can't take their opponents lightly.
“While it’s true that Lazio have tended to struggle against us in recent times, we’ve always respected them and the same goes for Sunday night.
“I hope that we keep up this strong vein of form against Lazio, and that we continue to add to the trophy haul that we’ve accumulated with another Super Cup. To win tomorrow would mean to start the season on the perfect note.”
TOO EARLY TO JUDGE
Juve's pre-season has yielded two wins and two reverses, but a veteran like Buffon knows that the real tests begin on Sunday in the annual curtain-raiser set for 20.45 CEST at the Stadio Olimpico.
“To be saying that we’re stronger than last season means absolutely nothing at this stage. The real tests begin now and this is the moment when we need to starting giving responses to the questions that will be asked of us.
“I’m convinced that we’re still a top team and it’s down to us, our hunger and determination to win, to keep showing just how strong we really are.”
