Motta Calls For Sharper Juventus Attack Following Goalless Draw With Roma

Add as a preferred source on Google

Juventus head coach Thiago Motta has urged his forwards to be more precise following a lacklustre goalless draw against Roma at the Allianz Stadium. Despite winning his first two league matches, Motta had to settle for a point after seeing only one of his team's eight shots hit the target. The hosts managed just 18 touches in Roma's box, with Dusan Vlahovic having the only significant chance.

Motta expressed his dissatisfaction with the offensive performance, stating, "Today we were too frenetic. At times we did well, at times they did well, it was a really difficult and balanced game." He acknowledged Roma's strength but emphasised that Juventus failed to capitalise on key moments. "Offensively we can do better," he added.

The match marked the first time since the 2014-15 season that Juventus have kept a clean sheet in their opening three Serie A games. However, their attacking struggles were evident as they produced an expected goals (xG) total of just 0.47 compared to Roma's 0.37.

Despite the attacking issues, Juventus remained unbeaten in their first three Serie A games for the third consecutive year. Motta praised his players' commitment during this early phase of his tenure. "I think it's a fair result in a balanced match. We didn't concede and we have one more point in the standings," he said during a press conference.

Motta highlighted that while Juventus could have been more precise offensively, Roma's defence made it challenging to find spaces. "I'm very satisfied with the group and their commitment," he noted.

As Juventus head into the international break level on points with leaders Inter, Motta remains optimistic about his team's potential but acknowledges room for improvement in their attacking play.

The result leaves Juventus with plenty to ponder as they prepare for upcoming fixtures. While their defensive solidity is commendable, finding a way to unlock opposition defences will be crucial for sustained success this season.