MY ACCOUNT
Alvaro Morata scored the only goal of the game as in-form Juventus boosted their bid to qualify for the Champions League with a victory over Spezia.
Massimiliano Allegri’s side headed into the clash at the Allianz Stadium on a 13-game unbeaten streak in the league and took the lead when Morata struck in the first half.
Spezia rarely troubled their hosts, barring an Emmanuel Gyasi second-half chance, as Juve moved six points clear of fifth-placed Atalanta, who fell to a 1-0 defeat at Roma on Saturday.
The Bianconeri are just five points adrift of leaders Inter, while they were four behind Napoli and Milan ahead of their clash later on Sunday.
A wayward Ivan Provedel pass after 21 minutes allowed Dusan Vlahovic and Manuel Locatelli to combine through the middle, with the latter finding Morata to coolly slot home.
Provedel somewhat atoned for his mistake with a smart stop to deny Juan Cuadrado, who was teed up by Arthur, as Juve dominated the first half.
An unmarked Gyasi should have restored parity after the interval, but he could only head into Wojciech Szczesny’s hands from close range following Salvador Ferrer’s delivery.
Spezia continued to grow into the encounter as they searched for a first league goal in three appearances in Piemonte, with Szczesny forced to keep out Kevin Agudelo’s effort.
But Allegri’s side defended resolutely to see out victory and make it 14 games unbeaten in Serie A – their longest such streak since December 2019 under Maurizio Sarri.
What does it mean? Juve on the charge
Allegri has repeatedly downplayed Juve’s chances of challenging for the Scudetto, but the Bianconeri are working their way into contention.
The Turin giants are on a roll and their rivals may be looking over their shoulders as the title race hots up.
Rampant Rabiot
Midfield partner Locatelli may take the plaudits, but Adrien Rabiot was excellent in Allegri’s engine room.
The France international registered team-leading figures in duels contested (17) and tackles (4), while also creating a team-high two chances.
Missing Manaj
Rey Manaj cut a frustrated figure up top as his performance characterised a Spezia outing that did not see them manage an attempt until the 43rd minute.
The striker registered just 27 touches and 16 successful passes – the fewest of any starter.
What’s next?
Juve travel to Sampdoria on Saturday, when Spezia host Cagliari.
