Massimo Ambrosini praises Juventus for qualifying from their Champions League group and says they can face the Last 16 without pressure.

The Bianconeri secured qualification for Last 16 of this year's competition with a goalless draw against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

The result puts them at second in the group, meaning they could be drawn against one from Barcelona, Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the next round.

Massimo Ambrosini praises Juventus for qualifying from their Champions League group and says they can face the Last 16 without pressure.

The Bianconeri secured qualification for Last 16 of this year's competition with a goalless draw against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

The result puts them at second in the group, meaning they could be drawn against one from Barcelona, Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the next round.

Twice winner of the Champions League as a player with Milan, Ambrosini agrees that second place brings that risk, but he sees a silver lining.

“It matters because in terms of probability it's a disadvantage in the draw,” the Sky Italia commentator agreed with Tuttosport.

“But it doesn't mean Juve are done for. Luck matters in the Champions League, as well as the condition of form you take into the decisive matches.

“Any given situation now may be reversed in February by injuries and the mercato.”

Ambrosini was also asked who the 'easiest' opponent to draw would be out of those available.

“Monaco and Porto, at least on paper. The Portuguese have less prestige than the others, even though playing them away isn't simple.

“Other than two or three big teams, the Bianconeri are at the level of their rivals.

“The fact they cannot face Atletico Madrid in the round of the Last 16 is hardly trivial. [Coach Diego] Simeone's team makes their adversaries play badly.

“And Juventus, for the characteristics of the team, suffers against teams that close up at the back.”

But the Rossoneri midfielder thinks there are more positives to be taken from the situation than merely the good odds.

“There is the psychological factor. Juventus have acquired international experience as a team and in terms of its individuals.

“Having qualified for the Last 16 is like removing a burden. And facing the Last 16 as second-placed can take off some pressure from the players – the same pressure that often halted them in the past.

“It will take a bit of luck at the draw, but Juventus can play for a result against anyone.”

Juventus will learn their rivals for the first stage of the knockout round at the Champions League draw on December 15.

Byrob

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