Capello admires Juve fireworks Wednesday 14 September, 2005
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Fabio Capello admits he thought the Bruges game was going to turn against Juventus despite aiming 23 shots on goal.
“This is football and we should have won by a mile,” said the Juve Coach after the 2-1 victory. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many scoring opportunities in a single Champions League game and we played fantastically well against a very determined side that will always cause you problems at home, but we were up to the task.”
Pavel Nedved’s free kick and a Trezeguet lob eventually earned the win, although Brugge goalkeeper Stijnen performed a series of extraordinary saves and a late goal set up a tense finale.
“Trezeguet had several chances in the first half and was kept out by a ‘keeper who was performing miracles, but the 100th goal eventually arrived. It became trickier after Patrick Vieira’s red card, which I think was harsh.”
Capello was without a host of star players, especially in defence, and experimented with Manuele Blasi at right-back instead of the expected Federico Balzaretti.
“Balzaretti became a father today and did not sleep well last night because his wife was in labour. He was very stressed, so it was best to leave him in the stands today. Blasi has been tested in that position a few times in training and it could be a good future role for him, or for other players. I won’t say more than that.”
As expected, Bayern Munich also won their match 1-0 away to Rapid Vienna, so the German giants and Juve lead Group A with three points each. It has been a promising start for the Serie A sides, who all won their opening games.
“This is the beginning of the tournament and there’s a long road to go, but the team is on form. I am glad that all four Italian clubs started with a win, as it’s great for our football.”
There was another good representation of Calcio in the Champions League this evening, as former Juventus star Fabrizio Miccoli scored a wonder goal to ensure Benfica beat Lille in the final minute of their game. The Portuguese side now leads Group D ahead of Manchester United and Villarreal.
“We knew Miccoli was a champion and that he would be able to make his mark,” noted director general Luciano Moggi. “He is still on loan, so if he returns to us then it’ll be as a star and if he stays with Benfica then it’ll be for more than we originally paid.”
so this explains why Balzaretti didn't play! anyway i think Blasi did a good job and also made some nice crosses in the offense!
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