20 November 2017
Douglas Costa provided an energetic substitute appearance against Sampdoria, firing away a smart shot upon coming on for Juan Cuadrado before winning the penalty from which Gonzalo Higuain scored Juve’s first goal of the afternoon, but it would not be enough for the Bianconeri to avoid defeat in Genoa.
“Whenever I’m called upon, I’m always looking to play my part,” declared Costa. “We need to be more clinical in front of goal and to try to close out football matches like yesterday’s earlier on. Otherwise, it becomes very tough going as a result.”
Now, attentions turn to Wednesday night and Juve’s crucial Champions League Group D tie at Allianz Stadium against Barcelona, where victory would see the Bianconeri through to the last 16.
“It will be a huge match between two extremely strong sides,” said the Brazilian. “We’re at home and backed by our fans.
“The Champions League means so much to us. Winning it would be a special achievement.
“Returning to Wednesday, however, we’re expecting a very tactical and physical match.”
