Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri says the fact that the Bianconeri conceded two goals to Olympiacos is not down to a switch to a back four.
Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri says the fact that the Bianconeri conceded two goals to Olympiacos is not down to a switch to a back four.
Juve habitually line-up in a 3-5-2 formation, but switched to a 4-3-1-2 system for the visit of the Greeks last night.
The switch appears to have borne fruit, with the Old Lady recording a 3-2 victory to keep alive their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage of the Champions League.
However, questions were asked about whether the side’s traditionally mean defence was hampered by the switch, after allowing the Greek Champions to take a 2-1 lead.
“The goals we conceded weren’t because we were defending in a back four,” Allegri insisted in his post-match Press conference.
“The first goal was unbelievable, we conceded from a header off a low cross, that’s hard to take.
“The second goal was rather fortuitous but in the end the team reacted and we managed the victory.
“We had played well, with good technical intensity on our part, and the lads had created a lot.
“Then suddenly we found ourselves behind without even realising it, but that’s football.
“In those moments you just have to remain calm, which the lads did, they turned the match around and won an important Champions League game.”
Juventus won the match, but could have gone above Olympiacos on the head-to-head record had Arturo Vidal not missed a last-minute penalty. As a result, should Juventus finish level on points with the Greeks they would lose out on away goals.
“I’m disappointed, because if we’d scored the penalty we’d have gone above them,” Allegri reflected.
“But there are still two games to go, and if we get six points we’ll qualify. Then if you get four or three you just don’t know.
“We have six points, and we can get 12.
“Winning in the Champions League is never easy, and this evening there is reason to be happy, because we’re in a good position in the table, and we have two more games which [if we win] will allow us to finish first.”