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3 takeaways from Juventus’ last-gasp defeat in the Supercoppa Italiana

By James Cormack

SAN SIRO STADIUM, MILAN, ITALY - 2022/01/12: Paulo Dybala of Juventus FC looks dejected at the end of the italian super cup final football match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC. FC Interrnazionale won 2-1 over Juventus FC after extra times. (Photo by Andrea Staccioli/Insidefoto/LightRocket via Getty Images)
SAN SIRO STADIUM, MILAN, ITALY - 2022/01/12: Paulo Dybala of Juventus FC looks dejected at the end of the italian super cup final football match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC. FC Interrnazionale won 2-1 over Juventus FC after extra times. (Photo by Andrea Staccioli/Insidefoto/LightRocket via Getty Images) /
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One defensive lapse proves costly

An Alex Sandro error proved fatal in the dying embers. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
An Alex Sandro error proved fatal in the dying embers. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images) /

Juventus’ backline was not a pretty one on paper, but their resolve was crucial to holding off Inter and they deserve tremendous credit for their performances between the 45th and 119th minutes.

In front of them, Manuel Locatelli and Adrien Rabiot worked their socks off without getting a sniff of possession, while McKennie epitomised the grinta that emanated from their majestic skipper on Wednesday night.

This was a vintage performance from Giorgio Chiellini. The veteran Italian has built his impenetrable legacy off games like this and his grit, energy and determination were infectious. Chiellini defended his box with the will of a zen master and his masterclass was accompanied with a big fat grin across his face.

For all his hard work, as well as the rest of the Juve defence, including Alex Sandro, to be undone by one moment of indecision with seconds to go of extra time was so cruel. The Brazilian’s attempted chest to… I’m not quite sure who in the box was seized upon by Alexis Sanchez who finished with aplomb.

While it’s harsh on Allegri and Juventus, that’s the danger of low block defending. By succumbing to sustained periods of pressure, defenders are liable to a lapses in concentration and only one error can prove fatal.

Still, while Allegri’s ploy ensured that the contest was close to unwatchable for the best part of 75 minutes, the Juve boss will undoubtedly take great pleasure from his side’s defensive showing. Considering their depleted ranks, the Bianconeri can take solace in knowing that they were seconds away from taking Italy’s best and most proficient attacking outfit all the way to penalties.

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