Massimiliano Allegri confessed Juventus “didn’t want to compromise qualification” in their 0-0 with Atletico Madrid.
The Bianconeri would’ve topped the group with a victory by two clear goals, but a point was enough to beat Olympiacos to second place.
“It’s always complicated against Atletico, as they defend very well with tight lines, so it’s not easy to find passes between the lines,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
Massimiliano Allegri confessed Juventus “didn’t want to compromise qualification” in their 0-0 with Atletico Madrid.
The Bianconeri would’ve topped the group with a victory by two clear goals, but a point was enough to beat Olympiacos to second place.
“It’s always complicated against Atletico, as they defend very well with tight lines, so it’s not easy to find passes between the lines,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
“We risked on a few occasions, Buffon did very well in the first half with a save and we had chances too. In the second half we tried to win, but at the same time not risk losing. We didn’t want to compromise a qualification I thought was thoroughly deserved, as we did not deserve to lose against Olympiacos and Atleti in Madrid.
“Of course we need to improve, as against these big clubs there are times when you have to defend and protect yourself – something Atletico Madrid do for most of the game.”
This means Juve will take on one of the group winners in the next phase of the competition.
“The level of European teams is three or four who are far above the rest: Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Chelsea.
“The rest of us are battling and we are aware of our qualities. We can slowly improve our self-confidence and I think we have played a good group with undeserved away defeats in Athens and Madrid.”
Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone took a very defensive approach in Turin and allowed Juve over 70 per cent possession in the first half-hour.
“It’s an honour if Mandzukic marks Pirlo. This team has for years made the most of its characteristics, pressing opponents, leaping on you the moment you get the ball and are very strong in the air. When Arda Turan and Raul Garcia find space, they do damage.
“This side has been getting results for years and their possession might not be great, but they remain one of the toughest teams to face.”
Neither side made any substitutions during the 90 minutes, leading to just one minute of stoppages.
“Our objective was to try to break the deadlock and if that didn’t happen to not risk losing a very important qualification.
“I have to thank the lads tonight, as they gave me more success. I have been in the Champions League for five seasons, four at Milan, and have reached the knockouts every time. The Coach can have an impact on the team, but mostly when he does damage!” laughed Allegri.