Juventus continued their excellent run in the Italian top flight as they secured a convincing 3-1 win over Cagliari at the Allianz Stadium.
Juventus maintained their six-point lead at the top of the table, thanks to a 3-1 triumph over Cagliari on Saturday. The Bianconeri started the game on a positive note with Paulo Dybala scoring an opener inside the first minute.
However, they failed to continue their excellent start to the game as Cagliari ploughed forward, ultimately finding the equalizer through Joao Pedro. But, the visitors were extremely unlucky as midfielder Filip Bradaric scored an own goal minutes after their equalizer to put Juventus back into the ascendancy.
Massimiliano Allegri’s men stood resolute in the second half whilst creating a host of opportunities in the final third. And although they lacked the desired end product, substitute Juan Cuadrado added more gloss to the scoreline in the 87th minute and thus, helping his side continue their unbeaten run in the league this season.
31 – This is Juventus' best start in a single Serie A season after the opening 11 games played: 10 wins and a draw. Martians. #JuventusCagliari
— OptaPaolo (@OptaPaolo) November 3, 2018
The Hard Tackle runs the rule over the Juventus players in their convincing win over the Rossoblu this weekend.
Wojciech Szczesny: 7.5/10
Made a stunning save to deny Leonardo Pavoletti from close range in the first half. But, he might have done better in keeping out Joao Pedro for his equalizer in the first-half. He was largely untroubled in the second half.
Joao Cancelo: 7.5/10
Cancelo combined well with Douglas Costa on the right-flank, providing a host of useful balls to the Brazilian. He was also quite secure in regards to his ball-retention, attaining a pass accuracy of 91%. However, he should have done better on the defensive front.
Leonardo Bonucci: 6.5/10
It was on many levels, a nervy performance, from Bonucci, who struggled against the likes of Joao Pedro and Leonardo Pavoletti. His careless play allowed Cagliari to claw their back into the game after they conceded in the first minute.
That being said, Bonucci was crucial to Juventus’ build-up play from the back, with his accurate long-balls helping his team stretch the opposition. He also attained an impressive passing accuracy of 93%, most by any player on the pitch.
Mehdi Benatia: 6.5/10
Much like Bonucci, Benatia against the physical dominance of Pavoletti in the box. But, he certainly deserves a credit for remaining resolute in the second half as he attempted four tackles with an accuracy of 75%.
Mattia De Sciglio: 7/10
Played a key role Juventus’ build-up from the back, attempting 53 passes with an accuracy of 87%. He was very dependable, overall, making two clearances as well as one interception. But, he wasn’t as influential as Cancelo on the opposite flank.
Rodrigo Bentancur: 8/10
A key figure in the Juventus midfield, Bentancur helped his side dominate the proceedings thanks to his incredible work ethic. His tenacity in midfield hurried and hassled the opposing midfielders, all of whom looked pretty much out of shape this weekend. Also picked up an assist after he found Dybala around the box in the first minute of the game.
Miralem Pjanic: 8/10
Orchestrated the play in the centre of the pitch with his excellent ball circulation as he attempted 59 passes with a stunning accuracy of 90%. In addition, Pjanic was a threat from set-pieces while his flawless passing provided Juventus with more security in midfield.
A decent performance from the Bosnian international, who will undoubtedly play a key role against Manchester United on Wednesday.
Blaise Matuidi: 7.5/10
Tried to move forward whenever he had the opportunity, stringing together a series of passes in the final third. Defensively, he was decent as well and it will be interesting to see how he fares against United next week.
Douglas Costa: 8.5/10
Costa was the brightest spark in the Juventus attack, especially in the first half where he made a plethora of runs into the Cagliari defence. His sheer pace coupled with his extremely quick feet made it difficult for the Cagliari defenders to mark him tightly as he provided a series of dangerous crosses into the box.
Paulo Dybala: 8.5/10
His fantastic solo in the opening minute will remain the highlight of this game as the Argentinian drifted past two Cagliari defenders to produce a well-calculated finish into the bottom right corner. Aside from that, Dybala linked up well with his teammates and created a few opportunities.
Cristiano Ronaldo: 8.5/10
Another comprehensive attacking display from the Portuguese international, who continues to build his reputation at his new club. Indeed, Ronaldo looked menacing whenever he got onto the ball and twice came close to scoring. Despite that, he was unselfish in squaring up the ball to Juan Cuadrado late in the game to seal three points for his side.
SUBSTITUTES
Juan Cuadrado: 7.5/10
Made a quick impact after replacing Douglas Costa in the second half. His pace caused a lot of trouble for the opposing defence while his defensive prowess also helped Juventus hold onto their slender lead in the second half before he scored the third in the 87th minute.
Alex Sandro: 7/10
Came on for Miralem Pjanic in the 70th minute as Allegri opted to shore up his defence. His introduction instantly boosted Juventus’ temerity in the final third.
Andrea Bargazli: NA
An 83rd-minute substitute for Blaise Matuidi, who helped Juventus see out their lead.
