Allegri not leaving Juve, Monaco needing miracle to reach UCL final

Juventus striker Gonzalo Higuain celebrates a goal during the first leg of the semifinal tie between Juventus and Monaco. [File Photo: Xinhua]

Juventus is taking a healthy 2-0 lead home for the return leg of its semifinal clash against Monaco in the Champions League. 

Juve still hasn't conceded a single goal in the knock out stages of this season's tournament and remains the most impregnable team in the competition. 

Coach Massi-mil-iano Allegri earlier took the time to clarify speculation that he is taking a break from football. 

"No, I repeat. I'm not going to stay out for a year. When I decide to stop I'll leave. Then if no one wants me I'll be out inevitably, but If I have the chance make the call, I will not stop. It is not true that I have said that if I win I'm going to climb the Himalayas. I've never said anything like that, also because first we have to get the trophies and then you can discuss it. And when you are working well together I don't see the reason why you have to separate," the coach says. 

Allegri's reassurance came at a crucial time when his team is chasing a treble. 

Monaco's dream run at the tournament was dented at home but they believe not all is lost. 

"We have nothing to lose. We are going to play there. We have lost 2-nil. We will have to achieve a feat, to perform a miracle. Even if we lose away, our European season would remain exceptional," says forward Valere Germain. 

Fragile European dreams aside, Monaco is closing in on the French Ligue-1 title with a 3 point lead over Paris Saint Germain.