Andrea Barzagli is refusing to subscribe to the theory that Juventus have wrapped up the title, despite ending Roma’s unbeaten run at the weekend.
The Giallorossi arrived in Turin for the resumption of the Serie A season on Sunday evening, and although they did so in second position, they had avoided defeated in every one of their previous 17 matches. However, due to drawing five of their last seven outings, they knew they couldn’t afford to let the leaders take maximum points.
But in what was a disastrous night for the capital club, goals from Arturo Vidal, Leonardo Bonucci and a Mirko Vucinic penalty gave the champions a comfortable 3-0 win. And to add to the woe of the visitors, Daniele De Rossi and Leandro Castan will have to serve suspensions, as both were dismissed in the space of two second half minutes.
Juventus, gunning for a third successive Scudetto, are now eight points clear of Roma after 18 rounds of fixtures. Whilst many pundits and supporters can now only see more glory for Antonio Conte’s side, defender Barzagli is refusing to take anything for granted, particularly as there are still 20 matches remaining before the end of the season.
“Is the Scudetto in our pocket? How can I respond? There are still 20 games left,” Barzagli said. “Certainly this was an important game, because it was a direct confrontation. Eight points is a good advantage, but there is still so much until the end of the season. They are a team to be respected, but we have relied upon our strength.”
