Claudio Ranieri praised the Juventus fighting spirit of the Old Guard, but Cagliari’s Marco Giampaolo was bitterly disappointed at the last-gasp loss.
“It was a very difficult game, as Cagliari are a great side who know what to do on the field and work very quickly,” commented the Bianconeri boss after their epic 3-2 win at the Stadio Sant’Elia.
“They stretched us out and we were really under pressure in the first half, but Juve don’t give up easily.”
The Sardinians twice fought back to equalise through two penalties and a third was awarded, but taken back when the linesman intervened to point out Giorgio Chiellini got the ball cleanly.
The 3-2 result was only decided in stoppages as Chiellini rose to nod in substitute Mauro Camoranesi’s free kick.
“We know what it means to fight until the last second looking for a victory,” added ex-Chelsea boss Ranieri.
“Camoranesi did some divine things when he came on in the second half. It was a great team performance and many sides will suffer at the Sant’Elia this season.”
There have been many changes to the Juventus squad this summer, but David Trezeguet and Alessandro Del Piero were on target.
“The newcomers have picked up the mentality of the Old Guard and the club did very well to keep them here. These lads are passing on their victorious DNA to the others.”
Cagliari were understandably upset at seeing the point snatched from their grasp at the final whistle, especially as Gianluigi Buffon was forced into half a dozen world class saves.
“We played at a very high level and, in my view, deserved to win today,” said Coach Giampaolo.
“It did not happen and so we cannot sit here discussing it. We take our hats off to our opponents, but I do feel like someone stole a dream away from us. I know that three years ago I was content with applause, but now I want to win.”
The tie isn’t over yet, as Jonathan Zebina could face a lengthy ban for slapping a cameraman on his way off the field. He had been red-carded for dissent.