Luciano Spalletti has spoken of his Juventus side’s unyielding response and end-of-season aspirations following Sunday night’s frantic 3-3 draw with Roma.
In what will undoubtedly become a modern classic Serie A clash, Juventus fought back late to hold the home side 3-1 at the Stadio Olimpico.
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It was a fine goal-scoring night for the Capitals, with Wesley opening the scoring just before the break with a satisfying shot into the top right corner. Then, just after the break, Chico Conceição restored the tie with a piercing laser strike just under Mattia Perrin’s crossbar.
Roma then entered a different state. First, in the 54th minute, Evan Ndicka fired in a pass from Lorenzo Pellegrini on the right, and 11 minutes later, Kouadio Kone powered Donyell Malen to bring down Perin.
After that, Spalletti’s substitute played a key role and the game time passed 75 minutes. In the 78th minute, Eden Zeglova made a pass from the right, and Jeremy Boga made a clearance at halftime and scored with a volley.
Of course, at the very last minute, Weston McKennie hit a pass from Zeglova again. The ball went past the flailing Ndika and was struck kindly by Federico Gatti, sending the visitors into a frenzy.
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“I live for fourth place. Let’s give it some form and I live for that form.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 1: Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus Football Club at the Stadio Olimpico on March 1, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paul Bruno/Getty Images)
Spalletti got right to the point after a dramatic comeback for his side, who are currently sixth in the table. Especially after losing to Galatasaray with a total score of 7-5 in the European competition.
“If we’re talking about reactions, I’m satisfied. If we look at the chances created in the first half, no. Obviously, carrying the weight of the Champions League, the disappointment of being eliminated, being two goals behind is a difficult mountain to climb… but we were light on the second and third goals we conceded.”
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Does the experienced coach believe his side can drag the home side back? “Of course, because that’s the message you always have to convey.”
“Also, because we have players who can change the game at any time: Yildiz always makes a difference, just like Zeglova or Boga, they have vision and ability.”
Regarding fixture crowding, the boss continued, “Those things mean more than words, but I have to say, the fans also help us… it’s less pressure when they’re around us.”
“We were hit by too many things for a while and even though we had some big performances we were unlucky. I see the team improving in every aspect. I believe we will have a good ending to the season.”
GIFN | Max Bradfield