Soccer
Juventus coach Thiago Motta lamented his side’s performance in Saturday’s 1-1 derby draw against Torino.
The Bianconeri remain unbeaten in Serie A this season but have drawn 12 of their 19 matches.
Nikola Vlasic cancelled out Kenan Yildiz’s early opener on Saturday, leaving Juve – who are fifth – 11 points behind Serie A leaders Napoli.
Juve are just the second side to draw at least 12 of the opening 19 games in a Serie A season in the three points for a win era, after Inter in the 2004-05 campaign (13).
And Motta is growing increasingly frustrated with his team’s inability to turn draws into wins.
“We started well, but after taking the lead we dropped too deep, allowing them to create chances. We could have been more aggressive or avoided letting them reach that dangerous area,” Motta told reporters.
“We can do better from the point of view of aggressiveness. We didn’t finish in the right way to win the game. We [have] talked about this situation.
“Definitely too many draws, especially after leading games. With a young squad and some injuries. Never an excuse, we’ve lost only two matches in all competitions.”
3 – Kenan #Yildiz became the 3rd youngest player to score in both derbies between #Juventus and #Torino in a single #SerieA season (19 years and 252 days), after Bruno Nicole (19y, 19d in 1958-59 ) and Felice Borel (19y, 25d in 1932-33). Protagonist.#DerbyDellaMole pic.twitter.com/nhmuIvM2SK
— OptaPaolo (@OptaPaolo) January 11, 2025
A depleted Juventus faced their city rivals without striker Dusan Vlahovic, who was sidelined with a muscle issue.
Douglas Luiz, though, did make his return from injury. The Brazil international, who joined Juve from Aston Villa last year, has been linked with a move away from the club this month, but Motta was impressed by his display.
“He played very well, I’m very happy with his performance,” Motta said.
“We need as many fit players in the squad as possible.”
Matters do not get easier for Juve, who face high-flying Atalanta next before taking on AC Milan.
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