Juventus: Top 3 performances from win over Dynamo Kyiv

Juventus defeated Dynamo Kyiv 2-0 in their 2020-2021 Champions League opener. Let’s take a look at the best individual performances.

After drawing with Crotone in Serie A over the weekend, Andrea Pirlo knew that his Juventus side needed the full three points on the road against Dynamo Kyiv. Despite an early injury from captain Giorgio Chiellini, the Bianconeri took care of business with a 2-0 win.

Here were the top three individual performances from the victory.

Juventus ST Alvaro Morata

It all starts with the goal-scorer, doesn’t it? Atletico Madrid striker Alvaro Morata has taken well to his return to Turin, scoring once against Crotone and now twice against Dynamo Kyiv. The rust from his debut against AS Roma has worn off, as Morata looks like a huge upgrade as an out-and-out No. 9. He can be a big-time poacher in the box for the Bianconeri.

A key for Morata will be his chemistry with stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala, and Aaron Ramsey. It already seems like he and Ramsey are on the same page, and he’s had experience playing with Ronaldo before.

Per WhoScored.com, Morata also added value on the ball with four fouls drawn and two dribbles completed, which bodes well for him in the coming weeks when Ronaldo returns.

Juventus CB Merih Demiral

Merih Demiral deserves so much praise for coming off the bench and delivering a near-perfect performance for the Bianconeri as Giorgio Chiellini’s injury replacement. Dynamo Kyiv aren’t the most formidable of opponents, but Demiral looked right at home in the Champions League with a massive performance in defense.

He recorded five interceptions and always looked to make the simple pass on the ball. Demiral’s ability to win back possession quickly helped ensure Juventus could continue to play most of the game in the opposition’s attacking third. Recycling possession calmly and allowing Leonardo Bonucci to make the risky passes, Demiral did his job well.

Juventus RB Juan Cuadrado

Playing high up the pitch as more than just a right back, Juan Cuadrado delivered another understated performance for Juventus. The Colombian wide man is one of Serie A’s best at the position, as he remains one of the most consistent and well-rounded players at the right back position in the world.

Cuadrado needs to be a regular for Andrea Pirlo, because he brings hard work and quality to everything he does. His assist for Morata’s second was very well-done.

The 32-year-old finished the game with three fouls drawn and two interceptions. He didn’t make any mistakes, and he always kept the ball moving for his side. Cuadrado’s cleverness and experience will be immense in the Champions League this campaign.