Mbangula’s Late Heroics Keep Juventus Unbeaten
- infotrustmebro
- Dec 8, 2024
- 2 min read
Juventus once again demonstrated their resilience in a thrilling Serie A clash against Bologna, salvaging a 2-2 draw thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer from 20-year-old Belgian winger Samuel Mbangula. The result keeps Juventus’ unbeaten league record intact after 15 matches this season.
The game in Bologna was anything but straightforward for Juventus, who faced a formidable challenge from Thiago Motta’s well-drilled side. Bologna surged ahead in the 30th minute through Dan Ndoye, whose sharp finish inside the box gave the hosts a deserved lead. Early in the second half, Tommaso Pobega doubled Bologna’s advantage with a brilliant team goal, leaving Juventus on the ropes.
The Bianconeri found a lifeline in the 62nd minute when Teun Koopmeiners latched onto Danilo’s precise assist to pull one back. However, time was slipping away, and defeat seemed imminent until Mbangula stepped up in stoppage time, firing home a crucial equalizer that silenced the home crowd and secured a valuable point for his team.
Mbangula’s rise has been remarkable since joining Juventus in 2022. His composure and decisive finish underscore his growing importance to Massimiliano Allegri’s side. The draw leaves Juventus in 6th place in Serie A, with a record of six wins, nine draws, and no defeats after 15 matches.
Next Challenge: Manchester City in the Champions League
Juventus’ attention now shifts to an equally crucial encounter against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, December 11. The match is part of the new league-format group stage, and with only three matches remaining, both teams are desperate for points to secure their path to the knockout rounds.
Juventus currently sits in 19th place in the standings, while City occupies 17th, with both clubs locked on eight points. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as a win for either side would significantly boost their chances of advancing in the competition.
While Juventus remains unbeaten domestically, City has struggled to maintain their usual dominance, most recently settling for a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace in London. It remains to be seen if Juventus can capitalize on City's inconsistent form and seize victory in this crucial encounter.
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