24 September 2017
Solid, determined and decisive
It's almost too easy to find adjectives to describe Juventus' performance last night against Torino. The Bianconeri were in complete control against their city rivals, producing a dominant display and never taking their foot off the accelerator, as the data below confirms:
- A RETURN TO 4-0
Juventus have enjoyed the lion's share of derby wins in recent years, and last night marked the first time in 15 years that the Old Lady beat Torino by a 4-0 scoreline. The last time this occurred was in November 2002, where goals from Marco Di Vaio, Alessandro Del Piero, Pavel Nedved and Edgar Davids handed the Bianconeri a similarly emphatic win.
In fact, Juventus are unbeaten at home in the Derby della Mole since April 1995. From that point onwards, the Bianconeri have won nine and drawn three.
- THE MAGNIFICENT SIX
Juventus have now won their opening six Serie A games for the eighth time in their history. In seven of these occasions, this form has seen them claim the Scudetto at the end of the season.
The Bianconeri also had their most shots on target so far this season with nine efforts troubling Torino keeper, Salvatore Sirigu.
- IN-FORM PJANIC
Two assists and a goal. It was another excellent evening for Miralem Pjanic.
The Bosnian has now found the target four times against Torino in his Serie A career to date, which makes them the side that he has netted the most goals against.
However, his contribution to last night's victory goes far beyond all of this. Pjanic also completed 105 passes at a success rate of 96.2 per cent, created four goal-scoring opportunities and intercepted five opposition passes.
- THE IMPORTANCE OF THE FLANKS
The statistics show that last night Juventus dominated down both sides of the pitch. An example of Juve's domination of the flanks was clear demonstrated by Pjanic's goal, which came as a result of a great ball played into the box from the right by Juan Cuadrado.
The left-hand flank was also an area of the pitch that the Bianconeri made their own, with 11 crosses whipped in by Alex Sandro. The Brazilian full-back not only scored a goal, but also managed to successfully pick out his target on seven occasions.
Douglas Costa too helped the Bianconeri to take control of Juve's left wing, with his constant dribbling exploiting the space and proving to be a thorn in Torino's side.
- INCRE-DYBALA!
Paulo Dybala struck two more brilliant goals on Saturday night. The first was scored with pinpoint accuracy despite being off-balance, the other a deft flick over the oncoming Sirigu in the Torino goal.
La Joya's brace came from just three shots on target, while he also created four goal-scoring opportunities and completed 67 per cent of his trademark, mazey dribbles.
This was quite simply another outstanding performance from Serie A's top scorer, who now has 10 goals from the first six league games.
