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Juventus became the first Serie A side to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League in five years after a 0-0 draw in the second leg against Monaco. In a game that was devoid of many chances, it was Juventus’ Andrea Barzagli who came closest to scoring as he almost put the ball into his own net after fantastic build-up play by Bernardo Silva.In the game’s final minutes, Andrea Pirlo struck the post with a trademark free-kick to almost seal a late win for the Bianconeri. In the end, that wasn’t needed as the hosts couldn’t break down a stubborn Juventus defence.Here are the major talking points from the game:
#1 The Old Lady is back
Before the game, Buffon said that this was a chance for them to show they are back among the best teams in Europe. By securing their first semi-final appearance in the competition in 12 years, they have certainly sent out a message to the rest of Europe. The Old Lady is back.
Even without their best player, Max Allegri's side did enough over the course of two legs to get back amongst Europe's elite. They went about their job professionally and did everything that was asked of them. While they may not have the fire power that the other three possess, they are formidable at the back. And with Paul Pogba likely to be back for the semi-finals, they are a side that shouldn't be taken lightly.
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#2 Monaco lack cutting edge
Given Monaco's defensive record at home, a 1-0 away loss wasn't the worst result. However, their approach to the second leg ensured that it was a cakewalk for the Italian champions. Barring a spell early in the second half where they pressed the visitors into making mistakes, the French side sat back and let them have the ball. Despite having pace on the flanks and plenty of creativity through the middle, they decided to put balls into the box in search of their first goal of the tie.
If that tactic is bad against some of Europe's best central defenders, the fact that their crosses were either over-hit or too early when no one was in the box, made it even worse. Even in the final quarter of the game, when you thought they might put some pressure on Massimiliano Allegri's side, their inability to get out of their own half made life difficult for themselves. In the end, their lack of penetration cost them an opportunity for a first Champions League semi-final in a decade.
#3 The beauty and the beast
In a clash that was likely to be decided in midfield. Many predicted an Italian and Frenchman to come out on top. While that did happen, it wasn't the ones that most expected. Paul Pogba's injury left Juventus with a void that was expertly filled in by Arturo Vidal. Yet, it was their Italian maestro Pirlo, who decided the game. The 35-year-old's ability to pick out his teammates almost at will was what decided the tie over two legs.
Running him close for the best player over both legs was Geoffrey Kondogbia. While the former controlled the pace of the game with his silky touch and immaculate vision, the 22-year-old did so with brute force, energy and endeavour. The Frenchman did his growing reputation no harm with another master class from midfield. Whether it was picking the ball from his defenders or busting a gut to break through a packed midfield, Pogba's France U-20 teammate showed just why plenty of clubs are looking at him.
#4 A battle for supremacy
When the draw for the quarter-final pitted Juventus against Monaco, not many expected loads of goals. Although the tie lived up to that expectation, there was no shortage of entertainment in both ties. Whether it was some fabulous goalkeeping from an old master in Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo showing everyone that he is a timeless classic, Geoffrey Kondogbia staking a claim for being the next best box-to-box midfielder in Europe or some resolute defending from both sides, there was plenty to keep an eye out for.
Both sides gave as good a show as they could in a riveting clash of two sides looking to establish themselves once again in Europe. Although the Bianconeri succeeded on this occasion, the French club showed there is still a place for discipline in an age of goal fests and defensive blunders.
#5 Allegri: From Villain to Hero
When Allegri was appointed Juventus’ coach after Antonio Conte's decision to quit, there were question marks raised over his appointment. Many wondered why a coach who was sacked by AC Milan, who are currently struggling to qualify for Europe, was deemed good enough to lead a side looking to make an impact in Europe. But, a fourth successive league title (possibly) and a first Champions League semi-final in over a decade means that the Italian has well and truly won over any doubters.
His ability to adapt and remain flexible, without making wholesale changes to an already successful squad has paid rich rewards. Even if Juventus fail to make the final, the mere fact that they are rubbing shoulders with Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid is a testament to the fact that they are once again back to where they belong. And this return has been thanks in no small part to Allegri, who deserves all the plaudits he gets.
