Juventus ended their three-game goal drought with a convincing 3-0 victory over Genoa in Serie A, a match played behind closed doors due to violent clashes between Genoa and Sampdoria supporters earlier this week. The Bianconeri's attack, which had been struggling to find its rhythm, finally clicked, showcasing a more fluid and dynamic approach. Dusan Vlahovic spearheaded the attack, scoring twice, while Francisco Conceicao added a late goal.
Juventus dominated possession and controlled the game, with the Genoa midfield taking a hit in the 24th minute when captain Milan Badelj pulled a muscle and had to be replaced by Emil Bohinen. Despite Genoa's valiant efforts, they couldn't find a way past the Juventus defense, which held firm throughout the match.
The Bianconeri took encouragement from this and created a handful of half chances. Kenan Yildiz and Nico Gonzalez put in dangerous crosses from opposite wings but nobody was there to put them away. Juventus got the break they were hoping for two minutes into the second half when they were awarded a penalty. Koni De Winter obviously handled the ball to take it out of Yildiz’s path and the referee was well placed to see the action.
He pointed to the spot and Dusan Vlahovic stepped up to blast Juve in front and get their first league goal since August. Juventus kicked on from there. With 55 minutes on the clock Vlahovic doubled their lead as he took on a brilliant crossfield ball from Teun Koopmeiners with one touch and found the corner with his left foot. Suddenly it was all coming together for Juventus.
Without their fans present Genoa lacked the fight needed to get back into the game and were chasing shadows for large portions of the game. Motta was confident enough to make two changes with half an hour to play, Douglas Luiz and Francisco Conceicao being introduced. The latter immediately caused trouble out wide, putting in a great ball that Koopmeiners smacked against the underside of the crossbar from close range.
With a lot of tired bodies on the pitch the home side made a triple substitution with twenty minutes remaining but none of those introduced could make a mark. Képhran Thuram also had a cameo, heading a corner over after coming on with 15 to play. Vlahovic also headed off target as he hunted for his hat-trick. A late surge from Genoa saw a Bohinen shot blocked and a fantastic save from Mattia Perin on a well-struck Andrea Pinamonti effort. It was only the second save he had to make all afternoon.
Juventus wanted to put the cherry on top and with a minute left Conceicao did just that when he drifted in off the right to confidently stroke home a Thuram pass. The Portuguese attacker put in a great performance today and got the goal he deserved. Motta will be a relieved man as The goals flow again for Juventus in Serie A. He’ll be hoping this wasn’t a one-off from Vlahovic either as both team and player look to build momentum.
Juventus Dominate Possession and Create Chances
Juventus had a clear game plan, and it involved controlling the ball and creating opportunities. This proved to be a successful strategy as they kept Genoa on the back foot for most of the match. The Bianconeri dominated possession and created a number of chances, which ultimately led to their three-goal victory. The decisive moment came when Dusan Vlahovic stepped up to the penalty spot and converted the penalty.
Vlahovic Strikes Twice, Leading Juventus to Victory
Dusan Vlahovic’s performance was the highlight of the game. He proved to be a constant threat for the Genoa defense, and his two goals were crucial in securing the victory. He displayed his clinical finishing ability, showcasing his ability to convert chances and lead the line effectively. The Serbian striker's goals demonstrated his immense talent and ability to make a difference for Juventus.
Genoa Struggles to Break Down Juventus Defense
Despite a valiant effort from Genoa, they were unable to break down the Juventus defense. They struggled to create clear-cut chances and were unable to find a way past the Bianconeri’s backline. The absence of their fans may have impacted their performance, and they were unable to replicate their previous performance.
Looking Ahead: Juventus Aims for Consistency
Juventus will be looking to build on this victory as they aim for consistency in Serie A. The Bianconeri will be aiming to maintain this momentum and continue their pursuit of success in the league. Thiago Motta will be looking to ensure that this wasn't just a one-off performance from Vlahovic and that the team can continue to create chances and find the back of the net. The next game will be a crucial test as they look to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the league.