Juventus Women’s Memorable European Campaign in 2021/22 Champions League

Juventus FC‘s women’s team demonstrated remarkable prowess during the 2021/22 UEFA Women’s Champions League season, reaching the top 16 in Europe. On the brink of their return to European elite fixtures in a match against Valerenga, the team carried forward a legacy marked by significant achievements, including a notable victory over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

The Bianconere commenced their European journey on October 6, 2021, with an impressive performance against Servette. The match began with high intensity, as Andrea Staskova attempted to convert a cross from Martina Rosucci just three minutes in, although the effort ultimately did not find the net defended by Ines Pereira.

Despite early missed opportunities, Juventus maintained relentless pressure on their opponents. Servette, too, exhibited moments of threat, including a crucial penalty moment in the 26th minute when Agnese Bonfantini was brought down in the box. Staskova stepped up to take the penalty but was thwarted by Pereira’s save.

Juventus continued to press forward, and the breakthrough came in the 36th minute. Arianna Caruso, who recently celebrated a contract extension, capitalized on a pass from Lisa Boattin, delivering a remarkable volley that soared under the crossbar to net a European goal.

Entering the second half, Juventus maintained their aggressive stance. Lina Hurtig and Martina Rosucci posed continuous threats as they searched for a second goal. In the 64th minute, Staskova’s pass set up Hurtig, who converted with a well-placed shot to double the score.

Servette attempted a comeback, with Natalia Padilla hitting the post, yet it was Juve who solidified their lead in the 71st minute. Cernoia executed a powerful shot from outside the area, sealing a decisive victory in Geneva.

The victory not only propelled Juventus to a successful group stage campaign, tying on points with Wolfsburg and advancing with a difference in goal standings, but also highlighted a formidable encounter against Olympique Lyonnais in the quarter-finals. Despite a commendable 2-1 victory in the home leg, the Turin side fell to a 3-1 defeat in the return match against the eventual Champions League winners, Olympique Lyonnais. Olympique Lyonnais went on to claim the title by defeating Barcelona at the Allianz Stadium.