Spalletti compares Juventus 2-0 Udinese to lions against mice: ‘The real lion gives his all’

Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti has described his Juventus outfit as ‘lions’ and says that ‘a real lion gives all its strength, even against a mouse’ following Tuesday evening’s 2-0 victory over Udinese in the Coppa Italia round of 16. 

An own goal from 17-year-old Matteo Palma and a second-half penalty sent the Bianconeri through to the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, but there were a further three goals chalked off for offside on the night: Kingsley Ehizibue, Jonathan David and Lois Openda left feeling hard-done-by. 

You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Speaking after the full-time whistle, Spalletti explained that he was largely pleased with what he saw from his Juventus squad on the night, but insists that his team are still far from the finished product. 

“We played a decent game, we did everything well. We were well balanced, we capitalised, and created big chances,” Spalletti told Italia 1 after full-time.

“We could have managed certain situations better, and given the level we have, we need to take advantage in those. You have to be fierce and mean. A real lion gives all of its strength, even against a mouse.”

Spalletti was also asked for his verdict on the performances of strikers Jonathan David and Lois Openda, the latter coming off the bench in the second half only to have a goal chalked off in injury time. The former was also unlucky not to have two for himself on the night. 

“They’re two central strikers. If you talk to them, they’ll tell you that’s where they operate best on the pitch,” Spalletti explained. 

“David is technically very good, and links up well with the team. He moves very well in the box when the team plays against a low block and knows how to manage difficult situations.

“Openda is better at attacking from deep, he needs space but they compensate for each other and can also play together. We’re pleased that they’re doing well.”

Up next for Juventus is a trip to Spalletti’s old club, Napoli, where he won the Scudetto before leaving the club by mutual consent almost immediately after the final game of the 2022-23 season.

“It will be a melting pot of emotions because I have so many friends there. How I’m welcomed isn’t important, but what is is my feeling towards them, which is one of the utmost love,” the Juventus coach said.

Giving his final assessment on Tuesday’s win over Udinese, Spalletti added: “We have some great players here. I’ve seen a lot of willingness from everyone since I first got here. I’m seeing progress day by day, and that’s what brings me hope for playing a certain type of football, even against the highest-quality teams. We’re still missing a few things, but we’re on the right track.”