EXPERIENCE MAKES IT COUNT
Juventus, on the brink of elimination, came back from a goal down to knock Tottenham out of the Champions League at Wembely, showcasing once again their command over the European competition. HT looks at the talking points from Juve’s round-of-16 success:
HIGUAIN COMPENSATES
Gonzalo Higuain had scored twice in the first leg against Spurs but was guilty of missing a penalty that could have sealed the game for the Italians in Turin. The Argentine forward however made amends, scoring one and then setting up compatriot Paulo Dybala with a wonderful defence splitting pass.
DYBALA RETURNS
The highly-rated Argentine midfielder, who had missed out on the first leg due to a hamstring injury showed why he is such a pivotal part of Juve’s plans. With Spurs dominating proceedings in the first half, Dybala came to life in the second half with a flashing volley just over the goal. Minutes later he gave Juve the lead with a cool finish.
RESOLUTE ITALIANS
Italian veterans Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini, all of whom have been integral to the Italian club’s European prowess in the last four years, exhibited their strength once again to carry Juve over the line. Chiellini in particular had the most tackles, blocks and clearances thwarting a string of Spurs’ charges in the last 10 minutes.
JUVE’S PEDIGREE
Two Champions League finals appearances in the last three years sum up the Italian club’s experience and understanding of the competition. A tactical change by Juve manager Massimiliano Allegri certainly helped turn the tide but the team's ability to hold its nerve and bury their chances is commendable. In letting the game slip from their fingers, Spurs showed that they are not yet fully ready for Europe’s elite.
“It’s the history of Tottenham. They always create many chances and score so much, but in the end they miss [lack] something. We believe in the history. I think also yesterday in the game between Real and Paris, the history is important. Spurs just need that little something to start winning games like this - a trophy, a spark, a something. When you can’t win with great football, you have to find another route,” GIORGIO CHIELLINI