Yildiz, consistency and a clean sheet lift Juventus into Champions League spot

Juventus capitalised on their fixture list with a win over Udinese to spend at least one night in the Champions League zone. The match underlined three complementary qualities that have renewed confidence in the side: Yildiz’s brilliance, growing consistency in performance and a valuable clean sheet.

There was also a clear selection message: Di Gregorio on the bench while Perin is now a certainty to start. In the defensive trio Kalulu often had the task of marking Atta, Bremer operated in a more energy-saving role and Kelly picked up Davis, coping well apart from struggles with Zaniolo’s explosive runs.

In midfield McKennie delivered his usual solidity, covering for Thuram’s lack of precision early on and Koopmeiners’ hesitancy later. Cambiaso showed renewed vigour and Locatelli was a steady, reassuring presence.

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