08 December 2021
Battling spirit, a never-say-die attitude and an ability to overcome adversity were all on display on Wednesday evening in tandem with a wonderful team spirit and brilliant tactical organisation, allowing Juventus Women to leave the home of last season’s Women’s Champions League finalists with a point. Chelsea were aggressive from the get-go, but came up against a Juve rearguard that thwarted their every attack, led by the imperious Pauline Peyraud-Magnin in goal. The point is priceless and brings the goal of qualifying for the next round one step closer. With this sort of attitude, nothing is impossible.
THE MATCH
Joe Montemurro set the team up in a 4-3-3 system, with Peyraud-Magnin in between the sticks, Lundorf, Lenzini, Salvai and Boattin in defence, Rosucci, Zamanian and Pedersen in midfield and Girelli, Hurtig and Bonansea up front. Juve Women lined up knowing that they would need to dig in to keep out wave after wave of Chelsea pressure, and so it proved with the hosts carving out an opening in the second minute when Erin Cuthbert, who opened the scoring in the clash at Allianz Stadium, stung Peyraud-Magnin’s hands with a rasping shot.
Sophie Ingle tried her luck in the 14th minute, but couldn’t get her effort on target and Samantha Kerr was unable to steer her header goalwards with 26 minutes on the clock. The goalkeeper was called into action to make a stunning save to keep out Millie Bright’s effort which was heading for the top corner. The teams went in all square at the interval, with the visitors unable to muster much but showcasing defensive solidity.
The second half continued where the first half left off. Chelsea pressed and Juve held firm, while trying to play on the counter, with the tireless Cristiana Girelli providing an outlet and giving the team breathing space at crucial moments. The number 10 also had to show her bravery to shake off a knee injury, which was synonymous with Juve’s tenacious spirit throughout.
Lina Hurtig called Ann-Katrin Berger into action in the 65th minute, but the Chelsea goalkeeper made the save at her near post. The Blues continued to push forward as the clock ticked down, but Juve held firm and didn’t allow energy levels to wane. It was a true team performance, with the midfield and attack fully focused on their defensive duties, while the substitutes filled in admirably. In the end, the Bianconere left west London with a huge point that takes the club ever closer to the next round. Everything will be decided on the final matchday when Juve host Servette at Allianz Stadium on 16 December.
