Injury to players mar Juve’s win over Torino

rome — Juventus’ 1-0 derby win over Torino came at a high cost with both prized striker Gonzalo Higuain and his replacement, Federico Bernardeschi, coming off with injuries.

The status of each player will be big concerns for Juventus’ pursuit of a seventh straight Serie A title as well as the return leg of the Champions League last 16 against Tottenham.

Higuain was left grimacing on the pitch three minutes in after making contact near the endline with Torino goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu, who broke up a Juventus chance.

After staying on for another 10 minutes, Higuain exited and was replaced by Bernardeschi.

Less than 20 minutes later, Bernardeschi set up Alex Sandro’s goal, dribbling past a defender then providing the cross for Sandro to tap in from close range.

Bernardeschi exited late in the second half.

Juventus said later that Higuain has a bruised and twisted left ankle while Bernardeschi has a more serious left knee problem.

Higuain will likely miss next weekend’s match against Atalanta, while Bernardeschi could be out for up to a month.

Higuain scored twice when Juventus drew 2-2 with Tottenham on Tuesday. The return leg is scheduled for London on March 7.

On a positive note, Juventus were encouraged that Paulo Dybala came on for the final 25 minutes for his first action after several weeks out injured.

“Paulo played 30 minutes at a good level,” Allegri said. “I’m pleased with his and everyone else’s performance. This is a good result against a well-organised Torino side.”

It was Juventus’ ninth straight win but the Bianconeri remained one point behind Italian leaders Napoli, who beat relegationthreatened Spal 1-0. —