Champions League 2018-19: 3 things Juventus need to do to overturn the tie against Atletico Madrid

Ronaldo was at the losing end when Juventus faced Atletico Madrid earlier
Ronaldo was at the losing end when Juventus faced Atletico Madrid earlier

#2 Win the midfield battle and nullify Atletico in the center of the park

Pjanic and Dybala celebrating a goal
Pjanic and Dybala celebrating a goal

In the first leg, Juve's midfield was overpowered by Simeone's men. The midfield of Miralem Pjanic, Rodrigo Bentancur and Blaise Matuidi was clearly outdone by Koke, Thomas Partey, Saul Niguez and Rodri.

The very first reason for this was they were outnumbered in the center of the park. Secondly, the Bianconeri's midfield lacked balance. They had no chemistry between them as they failed to create anything for Cristiano Ronaldo or Mandzukic to capitalize on. Their link-up play was quite easy to disrupt as Matudi and Bentancur were reduced to nothing by the Spanish side.

This time around since Allegri is poised to play with a three-man defence, hence he will have more players to occupy the midfield. The midfield needs to be more dynamic, capable of creating chances, holding the play, add pace to get away from their man and should link up well with forwards.

Joao Cancelo can play as a wing back and will definitely add pace and flair to this Juve side. Miralem Pjanic, unlike the last leg, should be the dictator of the midfield, pulling the strings for his side. Meanwhile, Bentancur and Matuidi will be adding creativity and physicality respectively.

Moreover, if Douglas Costa can make it to the starting eleven he would provide the side with unparalleled pace and will help in creating goal scoring opportunities for the forwards. He can even come on from the bench to help his side.

Juventus, unlike the very last meeting, should overpower and nullify the Atletico midfield as they should come out on top in the midfield battle.

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