23 November 2014
Ahead of this week’s impending Champions League Group A clashes, Atletico Madrid – the Bianconeri’s only European rival in action this weekend – ran out 3-1 winners over Malaga in the Spanish capital.
Diego Simeone’s outfit took the lead on 12 minutes when ex-Juventus midfielder Tiago rose to meet Koke’s corner before making it two just ahead of the interval thanks to an unmarked Antoine Griezmann, who tapped Arda Turan’s right wing cross into an empty net.
A barrage of chances then followed for the hosts in the second half but they were made to pay for those missed opportunities when Malaga halved the deficit through Roque Santa Cruz’s hooked close-range finish on 65 minutes.
That proved to be a false dawn for the visitors however, Diego Godin heading in from Tiago's cross to ensure all three points seven minutes from the end.
With Malmo’s domestic season over and the Super League Greece suspended indefinitely due to an attack on referees’ committee officials last week, attentions now turn to Wednesday evening’s Champions League Group A meetings.
Juventus head to Sweden where they’ll face Age Hareide’s men at the Swedbank Stadion whilst Atletico – who can confirm their place in this season’s knockout phase with a victory over Olympiacos – welcome Michel’s troops to the Vicente Calderon.
