Juve Slip Up: Defensive Woes Cost Perfect Record
Juventus’ perfect start to the Serie A season is over. In a game full of mistakes and nervous moments, Igor Tudor’s side only managed a 1–1 draw away at Verona, a team still searching for their first win of the campaign.
Conceição strikes early
It all began so well for Juve. Francisco Conceição danced past his marker, rode a heavy challenge, and drilled a crisp shot into the bottom corner from outside the box. It was a moment of pure quality, and the traveling supporters expected more to follow.
But the early lead didn’t bring control. Instead, Juventus looked shaky at the back, a worrying theme after recent high-scoring games against Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan.
Verona hit back from the spot
The hosts were gifted a way back into the game just before the break. A long throw struck Joao Mario on the arm, and after strong protests, the referee pointed to the penalty spot.
Gift Orban stepped up and smashed the ball in off the underside of the bar. Juve keeper Michele Di Gregorio guessed right and even got a touch, but the power was too much. Verona were level, and suddenly the momentum was with them.
Orban kept making headlines, moments later catching Federico Gatti with a swinging arm. He was lucky to escape with just a yellow card.
Hosts push for the win
In the second half, Verona looked the more dangerous side. Suat Serdar thought he had scored with a towering header, only to see the flag go up for offside. Orban and Martin Frese then tested Di Gregorio with sharp efforts, forcing the Juve keeper into important saves.
Juventus, by contrast, struggled to create clear chances. Their attack looked flat, and their defence fragile. A point might have felt like a relief when the final whistle blew.
What it means
The draw moves Juventus to the top of the Serie A table, at least temporarily. Napoli will have the chance to overtake them when they host Pisa on Monday, as the only side left with a 100% record.
For Juve, this was another reminder that their attacking flair won’t always cover up their defensive problems. If they want to challenge for the title, those cracks at the back need fixing – fast.
