SARRI: "GOAL IS TO QUALIFY"
Juventus' coach Maurizio Sarri spoke in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Champions League clash against Lokomotiv Moskow.
"It will be a difficult match because it's the Champions League and because we already saw in the first game that they made it difficult for us, but the goal is to qualify. Let's focus on our performance. From a results perspective, the season is going really well, both in Serie A TIM and in the Champions League.
“I have the feeling that we still have room to improve, but the stats are different compared to the previous year, for example: possession. When our opponents defend in a way that is tight and compact, the game is often resolved by great play from an individual. However, at home Lokomotiv Moscow don't play defensive, but are proactive and use their quality.
“Both Higuain and Dybala really wanted to stay here, even knowing that they would not always play. If I can succeed in having them out on the field together, I will be the first to be happy. Higuain has improved a lot and is willing to make himself available to the team. He contributes a lot defensively and provides assists, and although maybe less of a threat in the box, he is still very important for the team. Last year, Higuain suffered being away from Juve, he saw it as a personal defeat. Here he has rediscovered a lot of motivation.
“Matthijs de Ligt’s ankle is not in the right condition for him to be able to play tomorrow, but it doesn't seem to be anything serious, rather a small injury that can be resolved in a few days. Tomorrow, we will decide between Daniele Rugani and Merih Demiral. Douglas Costa could play tomorrow.
“The first few months always bring new sensations and it's normal for players to feel involved. The difficulties arise when you think you know how to play a certain type of game and you are not at full capacity.”
(Photo Getty Images)
