Juventus edged past Sporting Cp at Allianz Stadium, according ESPN FC. However, Sporting took an early lead as left-back Alex Sandro put through his own net in the twelfth minute, but the home team responded brightly. Afterward, Miralem Pjanic struck home the equalizer to put Juve back in the contest. The Bianconeri continued to pile up pressure in Sporting's box and went on to squander a number of excellent opportunities in a one-sided affair but were "grateful" to a stoppage time goal from striker Mario Mandzukic that earned them maximum point at home.
The victory means that Juventus is second with six points, while Sporting CP is third. Here's a review of the match.
Juventus outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Gianluigi Buffon (6.31). Defender - Stefano Sturaro (6.31), Giorgio Chiellini (7.22), Medhi Benatia (6.20), Alex Sandro (5.83). Midfielder - Miralem Pjanic (7.63), Sami Khedira (6.22), Juan Cuadrado (7.53), Paulo Dybala (7.37), Mario Mandzukic (8.09). Forward - Gonzalo Higuaín (7.21). Used substitutes - Douglas Costa (6.62), Blaise Matuidi (6.38), Andrea Barzagli (6.43).
Team's strength and weakness: the Bianconeri created lots of goal scoring opportunities through individual efforts and counter attacks.
They were somehow weak at finishing and were aggressive in their tackles.
Style of play: Juve played with width and largely launched attacks through the center midfield.
Sporting CP outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Rui Patrício (6.82). Defender - Cristiano Piccini (6.69), Jeremy Mathieu (6.22), Sebastián Coates (7.12), Fábio Coentrão (6.85).
Midfielder - Rodrigo Battaglia (6.41), William Carvalho (6.47), Gelson Martins (6.38), Bruno Fernandes (5.82), Marcos Acuña (6.62). Forward - Bas Dost (6.48). Used substitutes - Jonathan Silva (5.73), João Palhinha (six points), Seydou Doumbia (5.80).
Teams strength and weakness: Sporting CP were effective at creating chances from set pieces and long shots.
In addition, they were weak at scoring, lost possession often and committed fouls within their box.
Style of play: Jorge Jesus' men played short and long passes with space. Also, they favored through balls and long range strikes.
Who is the Man of the Match?
Mario Mandzukic was the Man of the Match. Mandzukic''s 89th-minute goal apparently gave a wasteful Juventus side the victory. Furthermore, the Croatia international completed a total of 46 touches in the match.
