Max Allegri concedes Juventus were “genuinely at risk” in a 4-2 victory at Benevento and defends the club’s Champions League ambitions.
It took a Paulo Dybala hat-trick, including two penalties, and a Douglas Costa scorcher to eventually beat bottom of the table Benevento 4-2.
Max Allegri concedes Juventus were “genuinely at risk” in a 4-2 victory at Benevento and defends the club’s Champions League ambitions.
It took a Paulo Dybala hat-trick, including two penalties, and a Douglas Costa scorcher to eventually beat bottom of the table Benevento 4-2.
“We stopped a little after Dybala’s goal. The equaliser came and we got the sensation that we were genuinely at risk. That had started against Milan last week, where we conceded many shots for the first time in months,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
“It was a sign we needed to defend better and remain more concentrated. I had to compliment the lads, as it was important to get the victory after the defeat to Real Madrid and we managed to set that loss aside.
“A season has different moments, the key is to recognise them and try to adjust quickly. I saw issues against Milan and Real Madrid, they were clear again here today. We have to work harder, close down the opponents faster and allow fewer shots on goal. The good news is that we won the match.
“Mario Mandzukic is a crucial player for us with his physical characteristics and temperament. He didn’t do brilliantly today as a centre-forward, but is struggling a little physically.”
There was a lot of squad rotation at the Stadio Vigorito to prepare for next week’s Champions League quarter-final trip to Real Madrid, although hopes are minimal after losing 3-0 at home.
“We’ve got to take every last drop of energy we’ve got left to go for the Scudetto, Coppa Italia and of course the second leg in Madrid. It’s not easy to keep winning at that pace.
“I read criticism of Dybala and others after the Madrid game, but it was a very balanced match up to the hour mark. Much more balanced than it was in Cardiff, in the semi-finals and against Barcelona.
“Cristiano Ronaldo won five Ballon d’Ors, he scored in every Champions League game this season. We must put in a great performance in Madrid with the world watching and then see what happens.
“Our European ambitions must be strong, as they always are. When I first arrived, there was this terror we wouldn’t be able to get out of the group stage. We’ve since reached two Finals in three years.
“If people think Juventus have to win the title and Champions League every year, then that’s unrealistic. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Manchester City can’t manage it, so why should we be expected to?
“That doesn’t mean there’s a lack of ambition. The Champions League can be transformed by one incident in five minutes, or even by the luck of the draw, but with a league title you have 38 rounds to earn your silverware.”