Juventus manager Thiago Motta expressed his satisfaction with his team's depth after a dramatic 3-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League.
The match was tightly contested until substitute Samuel Mbangula scored a decisive late goal to secure the win for the Italian side.
Motta highlighted the importance of squad rotation and the ability of his substitutes to influence games, stating, "A strong bench is what separates great teams from good teams. Every player must be ready to step in and make an impact."
Juventus’ ability to rely on fresh legs late in the game proved crucial, as they absorbed PSV’s pressure before finishing the match on the front foot.
With Juventus aiming for success both domestically and in Europe, Motta emphasized the role of squad depth in maintaining consistency throughout a demanding season.
He praised the performances of his substitutes, particularly Mbangula, saying, "Samuel showed great composure and quality when it mattered most. This is the mentality we need in every player."
PSV, meanwhile, rued missed opportunities and defensive lapses that led to their downfall.
Juventus captain Danilo also weighed in on the importance of the team's collective effort, adding, "It’s not just about the starting eleven; it’s about the whole squad being ready. Everyone played their part in this win."
With this victory, Juventus continues to build momentum, reinforcing their position as a strong contender in the Champions League.
Major League Soccer (MLS) commenced its 30th season with a historic opening weekend, recording an unprecedented 46 goals across 15 matches, surpassing the previous record of 41 goals in 12 games set in 2019.
Notable high-scoring encounters included Columbus Crew's 4-2 victory over Chicago Fire and Philadelphia Union's 4-2 win against Orlando City.
Additionally, San Jose Earthquakes delivered a commanding 4-0 performance against Real Salt Lake, while Vancouver Whitecaps secured a 4-1 triumph over Portland Timbers.
In contrast, nine teams were unable to find the net, including reigning champions LA Galaxy, who suffered a surprising 2-0 defeat to debutants San Diego FC.
Reflecting on the weekend's events, MLS Commissioner Don Garber stated, "This record-breaking start showcases the attacking talent and competitive spirit present in our league."
Individual performances also stood out, with seven players netting braces, indicating a fierce competition for the Golden Boot this season.
Emmanuel Latte Lath, Atlanta United's record signing, made an immediate impact by scoring twice in their 3-2 win over CF Montréal.
Similarly, Anders Dreyer marked San Diego FC's league debut with a memorable double against LA Galaxy.
Atlanta United's head coach, Gonzalo Pineda, praised Latte Lath's contribution, noting, "Emmanuel's performance today exemplifies the quality and excitement he brings to our squad."
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