Juventus Women Triumph Over Valerenga in Champions League Opener

On October 9, 2024, Juventus Women secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Valerenga Women in their opening fixture of the UEFA Women’s Champions League group stage, held at Oslo’s Intility Arena. The match was marked by a decisive first-half goal from Sofia Cantore.

The home team, Valerenga, had an early opportunity to take the lead when Karina Saevik found Janni Thomsen in the penalty area, but her attempt was successfully blocked by Juventus defender Martina Lenzini. Valerenga’s Olaug Tvedten also came close to scoring midway through the first half but failed to find the back of the net.

Juventus capitalized on their chances when Chiara Beccari advanced towards the Valerenga penalty area and passed the ball to Sofia Cantore, who scored with a right-footed shot just before the half-hour mark, breaking the deadlock in favor of the Italian side.

The Bianconere maintained their lead thanks to several defensive contributions from Barbara Bonansea. Her defensive heroics included a crucial block and a goal-line header clearance that thwarted Valerenga’s attacking efforts.

Throughout the second half, Valerenga increased pressure on Juventus goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin. However, the shot stopper demonstrated agility and speed to deny Saevik’s dangerous attempts on goal.

Juventus had a significant chance to extend their lead through Amalie Vangsgaard, who directed a shot from a promising position over the crossbar after being set up by Estelle Cascarino. Vangsgaard later forced a Valerenga defender into a last-ditch challenge following Cristiana Girelli’s long throw.

Valerenga were close to equalizing in the closing stages, but Juventus’ Viola Calligaris made a critical goal-line block to prevent Sara Horte’s header from scoring. The final chance of the match came to Emma Stolen Godo, whose header did not find the target.

Under the leadership of coach Massimiliano Canzi, Juventus Women preserved their advantage to claim an important victory in Oslo as they look to advance further in the Women’s Champions League.

Following this match, Juventus Women will face AS Roma Women in their next Serie A fixture on October 13, 2024, at the Allianz Stadium.