The Cult of Calcio
·11 Februari 2025
The Cult of Calcio
·11 Februari 2025
At the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Juventus hosted PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of the Champions League play-off round. The Bianconeri had the upper hand in the first half and it was translated into a lovely opener from Weston McKennie. After the break, the Italians threatened to add more, but Ivan Perisic, out of all people, stunned the home crowds by snatching the equalizer. Nevertheless, the home side kept pushing and eventually restored their lead thanks to Samuel Mbangula, thus ending the contest 2-1. So here are our player ratings for Juventus who gained a slim advantage in their double header against PSV.
Michele Di Gregerio – 5.5
Some would argue that the Italian shot-stopper could have done better on PSV’s goal since it landed at his near post. He only had to come up with a couple of routine saves otherwise.
Timothy Weah – 6.5
The American was a menacing force on the flank with his speedy runs and quality crosses. He’s rapidly growing into his new role at right-back.
Federico Gatti – 7
A remarkable display from the Italy international who showed all the determination and tenacity in the world to set up the opener for McKennie. Perhaps he should have done better to avoid getting dispossessed ahead of the equalizer, but he was otherwise superb at the back.
Renato Veiga – 6.5
The Chelsea loanee has swiftly adjusted to life in Turin, and has already formed a bond with the Curva Sud. Aside from a few nervy moments, he looked composed and sharp at the back, and also did well in the distribution.
Lloyd Kelly – 5.5
Despite being outwitted by Perisic on the PSV goal, the newest Juventus player was overall solid if not spectacular while playing at left-back.
Manuel Locatelli – 6
A decent showing from the Juventus captain who contributed in both phases of the game.
Douglas Luiz – 6.5
The former Aston Villa man is showcasing signs of improvement following his poor start of the season. Dicated the pace in the middle of the park, and did his duty at the back.
Nicolas Gonzalez – 6
The Argentine threatened to score with a couple of headers but couldn’t put enough power behind them.
Weston McKennie – 7
The USMNT star might not be your traditional attacking midfielder, but ran his socks off in both phases of the game, especially on the pressing, and more importantly, smashed home an unstoppable shot from the edge of the box on the half-volley.
Kenan Yildiz – 5.5
The Turkish teenager was nowhere to be seen after the break, so perhaps he had sustained a knock which would explain his relatively quiet outing.
Randal Kolo Muani – 6
The Frenchman fought hard for every ball and connected well with his teammates, but failed to score for the first time in a Juventus shirt.
Samuel Mbangula – 6.5
The Belgian replaced Yildiz after the interval and immediately added a burst of energy to the left flank, even though his delivery wasn’t always on cue. Kept his composure to bury home the winner by pouncing on the rebound.
Francisco Conceicao – 7
The Porto loanee was an obvious improvement on Gonzalez, as he caused havoc on the right wing. His run and delivery culminated in the winner.
Teun Koopmeiners – 5.5
The Dutchman remains out of sorts as he struggled to produce anything noteworthy in his cameo.
Khephren Thuram – 6
The Frenchman added some brawn and stamina at a time when Thiago Motta’s midfield was beginning to fade.