08 February 2018
One of three players to have started every match in Serie A for the Juventus Women, Finnish defender Tuija Hyyrynen has been a mainstay for Rita Guarino’s side as the Bianconere continue their storybook inaugural season.
Hyyrynen, who joined Juventus after making it to the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarterfinals with Danish side Fortuna Hjørring last season, brings an experience and solidarity to the Bianconere defense at outside back. She spoke to Juventus TV today about her first season in Italy.
“It’s a dream come true for me,” said Hyyrynen. “Juventus is such a big club with great tradition and a winning mentality. It’s everything a player can ask for and I’m really happy to be here.”
Only goalkeeper Laura Giuliani has played more minutes than the Finland international with the Juve defense allowing just three goals in their first 12 Serie A matches.
“I have good speed and my passing game is usually of a high quality, but my best abilities are in my defending one against
one,” said the 29-year-old. “I think Rita [Guarino] is a really good coach. She’s really demanding and always keeping us on our toes with new drills that I really like.”
It’s indeed been a special year for Hyyrynen who has played more than 30 times competitively for Finland including more than a dozen matches in the UEFA European Women’s Championship. As for the secret to their success so far?
“We work hard every single day and have a good squad with high quality players in every position and the staff and coaches are amazing,” said Hyyrynen. “We’re just enjoying our football and playing together so maybe that’s our secret.”
