Following a series of uninspiring performances, Juventus finally managed to put on a real show when hosting Zenit St. Petersburg on the fourth matchday of the Champions League Group Stage. The Italians needed a single point to seal their qualification to the round of 16, but they were adamant on making a statement. Paulo Dybala was the main star of the show, scoring two goals and setting up Alvaro Morata with an assist, and Federico Chiesa added his name to the score-sheet with a brilliant solo effort. On the other hand, Leonardo Bonucci gifted the Russians an own goal and Sardar Azmoun grabbed a late consolation to end it 4-2. So here are our player ratings for the European encounter between Juventus and Zenit.
Juventus XI
Wojciech Szczesny – 6.5
The Polish goalkeeper could have done little to prevent the two goals that he conceded. Almost cost his side a goal with a poor distribution in the first half, but made two solid saves in the second period.
Danilo – 7
The Brazilian decided to surge forward a bit more than usual, but was always present to support his teammates at the back, allowing very little to escape him.
Leonardo Bonucci – 6
The Italian veteran was unlucky to watch his header sailing into his own net, but should have done better with his clearance. Besides this incident, he was mostly solid at the back and helped Juventus in building up the play.
Matthijs de Ligt – 6.5
The Dutchman put on a commanding display at the back, nullifying the danger of Azmoun and company. But in the end, he was overpowered in the air by the gigantic Dzyuba who bullied him off the ball to set up Zenit’s second goal.
Alex Sandro – 6.5
An improved display from the former Porto man who has been struggling lately. Burst forward from start to finish and made some vital interventions at the back.
Federico Chiesa – 7.5
A brilliant performance from the former Fiorentina man. Following a relatively quiet first half, he came to life after the break, earning a penalty kick and then scoring the Bianconeri’s third with a superb run.
Weston McKennie – 7
The American continues to improve with every performance. Linked up well with his teammates with some neat passing and almost scored a stunning goal in a solo effort but was denied by the woodwork.
Manuel Locatelli – 6.5
Despite receiving a needless yellow card, the Euro 2020 winner put on a composed and confident display. Fought hard for every ball, and provided the attackers with some sublime balls.
Federico Bernardeschi – 6.5
The Azzurri star provided the assist for Chiesa’s goal, and his dead-ball delivery caused constant danger for Zenit.
Alvaro Morata – 6.5
The Spaniard endured a mostly frustrating evening, but at the end of the day, he did have his moments. Scored an early goal which was ruled out due a minimal offside decision, won back the ball that led to the penalty, and killed the match for Juventus by adding the fourth goal.
Paulo Dybala – 8.5
A simply stunning performance from the Argentine who a pure joy to watch. Broke the deadlock with a well-taken strike, added the second from the spot (despite missing the original take) and could have scored more but one of this shots hit the post, while another whistled past it. Set up Morata’s goal with a delicious one-touch.
4 – Juventus have won each of the opening four group stage games of a Champions League campaign for their third time, after 1995/96 and 2004/05. Highway.#JuveZenit #UCL pic.twitter.com/NmEJu7koFU
— OptaPaolo ? (@OptaPaolo) November 2, 2021
Substitutes
Adrien Rabiot – 6
His cross from the left led to the fourth goal.
Arthur – N/A
Daniele Rugani – N/A
Dejan Kulusevski – N/A