Claudio Marchisio struck midway through the first half after latching on to Alessandro Del Piero's deft assist.

Apart from leading the Old Lady to a much-needed victory, the 23-year-old midfielder netted his first Serie A goal.

Now Juventus are at the Italian league summit with 43 points, only one goal ahead of defending champions Inter Milan, who would regain the top spot should they beat Sampdoria on Sunday.

Eventful Affair

Visitors Fiorentina had several chances to cancel out Juventus' slender lead, but goalie Gianluigi Buffon was at his best.

Mario Santana's attempt was the most dangerous, but his header hit the crossbar.

Fiorentina couldn't take a stranglehold on the game, as the in-form Del Piero,whose defense-splitting passes were all incredible, posed a great deal of threat.

The 2006 World Cup winner skillfully flicked the ball to release Marco Marchionni, but Sebastien Frey denied the winger's efforts.

Elsewhere, Chievo registered a 1-0 win over strugglers Reggina, thanks to Vincenzo Italiano's winner.