Juventus 3-0 Atletico Madrid: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis

#4: Juventus change approach; cracks widen in Atletico’s setup

When you are chasing a two-goal deficit, the first goal in the second leg is always of the paramount importance. That sets the momentum for the second leg of the tie and hence it is necessary that it comes as early into the game as possible.

Another reason for this is that oppositions tend to tighten up and close the gaps even further as the time progresses, making it difficult for the team playing catch-up to notch their objectives. Hence, a goal in the first 15 minutes is often the primary objective of many teams. Juventus probably started with the same idea but were unable to deliver the first blow until near the half-hour mark.

However, this came through a conscious change in their approach too. The Old Lady increased the gap amongst their players and undertook a more mature, stable outlook towards this game.

Their fullbacks and wingers shifted even wider, almost hugging the touchline, probably to drag some Atletico players away and create more space at the center. The first goal was created through an excellent, accurate cross by Fredrico Bernardischi from the left flank.

The Italian whipped in a perfect ball that was headed thunderously by Ronaldo to cut down half the deficit. Moreover, Juventus introduced some variability in their style of play that disturbed Atletico's rhythm.

Miralem Pjanic and Emre Can played good passes between the lines on a regular basis. However, they shifted the ball laterally and created opportunities through crosses and lobbed passes into the box equally well too.

Juventus were more threatening in attack once they settled the nerves that were present early on.