Draw Battle between «Lille» and «Juventus»: No Surprises Here

«Lille» and «Juventus» played a tense match with minimal goals, ending 1:1, thanks to goals by David and Vlahovic.

The encounter between «Lille» and «Juventus» might not have been eventful, yet it was undeniably a fierce battle. Right from the start, «Juventus» sought to seize control, maintaining their grasp throughout the clash. The hosts, however, chose an approach of rapid counterattacks with pressure on Thiago Motta's squad. This tactical choice presented some challenges for the guests, though it didn't render it an unsolvable threat.

The «Old Lady's» players confidently managed ball control and defensive duties, but their offensive efforts brought little return. Conspicuously, Conceição threatened from the right flank, complemented by Yildiz's active presence on the left. Attackers Like Compayners and Cambiasso were actively involved. Surprisingly, Vlahovic was less active, though he had his opportunities in the first half of the match.

The mastiffs adroitly capitalized on what was practically their only opportunity in the first half, with the spry Zhegrov delivering a brilliant pass through the defense to David. Approaching Gregorio one-on-one, he skillfully prosecuted his chances, steering the ball into the net. Starting the second half with high pressure, the Turin side managed to earn their returns: Conceição's right-side breakthrough was halted unlawfully, leading to a penalty. Vlahovic expertly converted it, yet they couldn't score any further match-winning goals. Towards the end of the second half, the hosts posed more realistic threats to alter the score, with the especially active Zhegrov performing superbly throughout the match, forcing Gregorio into several impressive saves.

The result is justified, and both teams prepare for subsequent tests. «Juventus» faces a trip to Birmingham, where «Aston Villa» awaits, and «Lille» will head to Bologna for their encounter with the local club.

Final score: «Lille» - «Juventus» 1:1 (1:0). Goals: David J., 27 (1:0); Vlahovic, 60 (penalty) (1:1).

«Lille» lineup: Chevalier L.; Alessandro; Diakite B.; Mandi; Andre B.; Boadu; Gomez Ein. (Mukau, 55); Gudmundsson G. (Bakker M., 81); Zhegrov; Sarawi (Fernandez-Pardo, 87); David J. Substitutes: Kaia; Mannone; Costarelli; Baret; Bayo M.; Lachaab. Warnings: Andre B. 73.

«Juventus» lineup: Gregorio; Calulu; Cambiasso A.; Gatti; Koopmeiners T.; Thuram-Ulien (McKennie, 68); Cabal (Savona, 69); Conceição F.; Locatelli; Vlahovic (Weah, 68); Yildiz (Mbangula, 81). Substitutes: Perin; Pinsoglio; Ruchi; Luis D.; Fagioli; Adjic. Warnings: Cabal 62.