Finally, the two new Juventus forwards have arrived. Openda and David both found the net as the Bianconeri claimed an important win in Bodo, breathing new life into their Champions League campaign. Vlahovic, however, could only watch from the sidelines — and while the goals were priceless, Spalletti knows they are just the beginning.
IlBianconero write how it was not only Juventus’ first victory in this year’s Champions League, but also Lois Openda’s maiden goal for the club — a much-needed breakthrough for both. This was the first match where the summer signings truly made the difference for the team.
Jonathan David had already scored on his Serie A debut against Parma, but that feels like a lifetime ago given how much has changed inside the club since then. At a crucial stage in the European campaign, when Juventus were teetering on the brink, the decisive instincts of their strikers made the difference. After all, a striker’s most important job is to score.
Openda Ends an Eight-Month Wait
Openda’s close-range finish to bring Juventus level offered a huge release of tension for the Belgian forward. It was not just his first goal for Juve — it ended a personal drought of 227 days, stretching all the way back to April.
The wait for the VAR check to confirm the goal can’t have been comfortable, but relief soon turned to joy. “It hasn’t been easy because I wasn’t scoring, but I’m happy for the support from the club and my family,” he told Sky after the match. For Openda, this could mark the start of a new chapter.
David’s Decisive Finish
While Kenan Yildiz made a strong impact after coming on, Jonathan David’s contribution was crucial too. Replacing Vlahovic late in the match, he showed his trademark poaching instincts to be in the right place at the right time — something that has defined his career so far.
Inside the box, David might already be the most efficient finisher among the three Juventus strikers. His goal not only secured the victory but may prove vital when qualification for the knockout stages is decided.
Encouraging Signs, But Not Enough
David’s overall performance is difficult to judge beyond the goal, with the Canadian on the pitch for just 15 minutes plus stoppage time and touching the ball only seven times. Openda’s evening provided more for analysis. Making his first start since early November in Cremona, he took his chance — at least on paper. Scoring in a comeback win speaks for itself.
Yet Spalletti will want more. In the first half, Openda was among Juventus’ least convincing performers, often rushed and imprecise in his play. When the coach talks about “raising the level,” Openda and David are very much part of that conversation. Both must now build consistency to turn isolated moments into lasting form.
Shifting Attacking Hierarchies?
Dusan Vlahovic stayed on the bench for the full 90 minutes as Spalletti rotated his squad, resting a few key players. Unlike Yildiz and Thuram, however, he did not feature at all — though this should not be seen as a demotion. The coach has repeatedly praised Vlahovic in recent weeks.
Still, Spalletti will be encouraged to see that, when it matters, he can now rely on his other two strikers as well. Vlahovic remains ahead in the pecking order for now, but the competition is heating up. One match — or even one goal — does not change everything, yet for Openda and David, these were vital first steps.
