Juventus Silence Sassuolo as Jonathan David Steals the Show

Second-half burst changes everything

Juventus went into half-time with a narrow 1-0 lead against Sassuolo, but the feeling was familiar and uncomfortable. Domination without security. One mistake could have undone all the good work, just like it had days earlier against Lecce. That tension did not last long after the restart.

Within two ruthless minutes, Juventus turned control into certainty. Jonathan David first set up Fabio Miretti for his first goal of the season, before capitalising on a loose Sassuolo pass to score himself. Suddenly it was 3-0, the game was done, and a tricky away fixture finally felt safe.

A rare win in a difficult stadium

This was Juventus’ first win away at Sassuolo since 2022, a venue that has often felt like a problem stop in recent seasons. Coming off a frustrating draw at Lecce, the response mattered, and the performance delivered.

Juventus dominated the match from start to finish, limiting Sassuolo to very little attacking threat. The home side managed just a handful of shots and rarely tested Michele Di Gregorio until the final minutes, when the outcome was already decided. Defensive control was a major positive against a team that has taken points from AC Milan and Bologna this season.

Jonathan David answers the critics

Few players needed this night more than Jonathan David. After heavy criticism following the Lecce draw, the striker responded with his best all-round display since arriving in Turin. A goal, an assist, constant movement, defensive work and creative influence all combined into a performance that lifted the entire team.

The celebrations told the story. Teammates swarmed David after his goal, and even Luciano Spalletti sprinted down the touchline to join in. It felt like a release, not just for the player, but for a squad aware of how important David could be if he finds consistency.

Momentum before the break

With rivals winning earlier in the round, Juventus needed three points to stay on track. They got them, along with a clean sheet and a confidence boost heading into a short break before facing Cremonese.

Juventus remain fourth heading into the second half of the season. It is not perfect, but signs of progress are clear. This time, dominance was rewarded.