24 September 2016
A fifth win in six games and a second consecutive clean sheet – two reasons for Massimiliano Allegri to be pleased after today's trip to Palermo, in what the coach saw as a case of mission accomplished.
"We wanted to win and not concede any goals,” the Bianconeri manager revealed after the game. "We got the points and showed the right spirit, but we need to make fewer mistakes technically.
"Nevertheless, we'll take the three points and now we start preparations for the next two games before the international break. I liked the fact that when we went down to ten men we were able to hold on for the victory."
Allegri opted for an essentially new strike force at the Stadio Renzo Barbera, as Gonzalo Higuain and Mario Mandzukic had only played together in friendlies before today.
"Their job was to give options to the midfielders and I think they played well. They didn't link up much between themselves but that's normal given their attributes, plus they worked hard at the end."
Juve hold on to top spot for now while other results come in, but the boss is keeping a lid on expectations: "The league is open, but we've made a good start and I'm pleased," he concluded.
"Now we need to improve our fitness and, above all, win against Dinamo Zagreb."
