A Juventus this vibrant and determined had not been seen for some time. Against Sporting Lisbon, the Bianconeri displayed a blend of intensity and personality reminiscent of the Premier League, with Dusan Vlahovic rediscovering his sharpness and Teun Koopmeiners finally taking centre stage. Due to Lloyd Kelly’s absence, the Dutch midfielder featured in an unusual role as the left-sided central midfielder — and Spalletti’s tactical touch was evident throughout.
Despite falling behind early and nearly conceding a second via the crossbar, Juventus responded maturely. They imposed their rhythm with crisp passing, movement, and vertical play, eventually earning a 1–1 draw. Only the heroics of Rui Silva — the standout performer — prevented a full comeback. It was a result tinged with frustration but rich with signs of genuine growth.
In the post-match debate on Sky (as quoted by TuttoSport), Fabio Capello, Zvonimir Boban, and Alessandro Del Piero dissected the team’s performance and Spalletti’s early impact.
Boban: “Koopmeiners Won’t Thrive in This Role for Long”
The analysis began with Paolo Condò’s reflection on Spalletti’s Juventus debut: “My first impression of Spalletti has been good, from the start. He wants to show that what happened with the national team was an unfortunate episode. He expected at least a four-year project, but it ended differently, and now he’s hungry for redemption. He’s found the ideal environment at Juve, because they too are seeking revenge.”
Boban then expressed doubts about Koopmeiners’ new tactical role: “I think he’s a natural midfielder. If you play him where he can receive the ball and make forward runs, he’ll do better. Either he lacks physical presence or pace — in this position he won’t last long. Of course, he feels more comfortable here than as a second striker, where he played before. But it’s not just the coaches’ fault.”
Del Piero: “Spalletti Must Sort Out the Attack”
Turning his attention to Juventus’ attacking setup, Del Piero pointed out areas of concern: “I was a bit disappointed in the last quarter of an hour, when Vlahovic went off and neither David nor Openda came on immediately. Spalletti pushed Yildiz forward, who isn’t a number nine, and reinforced the midfield instead of introducing the players the club has heavily invested in. That leaves me a bit perplexed. It’s a study phase for Spalletti, but Juve must fix this because they struggle to score. If you invest so much in the attack, you need to make use of it.”
Capello also gave his view: “It was a poor Juventus until the moment of the post — timid, without personality. Then something clicked. The opposing keeper made two great saves, but the rest of Juve’s performance I liked. It was a different Juventus, aggressive. In the second half they dropped off a bit, maybe after the intense rhythm of the first. The intent was there, but not the final burst. I saw Conceição and Yildiz helping in defence — that was a good sign.”
Del Piero on Vlahovic and Zhegrova: “Spalletti Must Convey the Threat”
Del Piero concluded by praising Vlahovic’s form while warning about Juventus’ attacking identity: “Vlahovic is in a good moment. He’s scoring, he’s involved, and he’s doing everything well. He puffs out his chest, even when there’s a battle — he raises his voice. He’s certainly the most in-form player right now. Juve reacted well after the possible second goal by Sporting; it only took them a moment to respond with ideas and rhythm.
“But over time, the usual issue of Italian football appeared — others play at a different speed. Sporting managed the ball in midfield with a composure that puts you off balance. You felt they were more likely to score than Juve. When Spalletti took off the forwards, the team risked losing its bite until David came in. Spalletti must realise that Juventus need to give the constant impression they can hurt the opposition throughout the match. That changes not just the game itself, but how people perceive you. Right now, he has to manage the strikers tactically, physically, and emotionally. Zhegrova gives that constant sense of danger — and that’s exactly what Juve need for the full 90 minutes.”
