Motta Commends Juve Following Victory Against Hellas Verona: ‘We Delivered an Outstanding Performance Today’

Juventus exhibited remarkable composure as they bided their time for the opening goal during a late victory over Hellas Verona in Serie A on Monday, a quality that coach Thiago Motta (42) greatly admired in his players.

Despite their lack of finishing touch, Juventus secured a 2-0 win, with late efforts from Khephren Thuram (23) and Teun Koopmeiners (27), having created almost 30 chances and thoroughly dominating the match.

“The manner in which we secured the three points was significant, and it wasn’t straightforward,” Motta stated in an interview with DAZN.

“Maintaining calm means taking your time and playing the game. It’s not easy, especially after our elimination from the Coppa Italia, as the atmosphere was quite intense, and there could be an added urge and anxiety to get things right.”

“When feelings run high, it can invite counter-attacks; however, we managed to prevent our opponents from finding such opportunities. In the second half, we could have added even more goals to our tally. The players deserved the outcome and displayed considerable quality.”

Juventus faced a surprising exit in the Italian Cup last week, having lost 4-2 on penalties to Empoli in the quarter-finals after the match concluded in a 1-1 draw after normal time.

“In our last cup match, our attitude in the first half was lacking, but we always hold ourselves to high standards and strive for improvement—that’s the key,” he remarked.

“We must find something to better each day. Today’s performance was excellent, but that is now behind us.”

The Italian-Brazilian manager offered encouraging words for goalscorer Koopmeiners, who netted his first goal since early December.

“Koopmeiners performed admirably, and I’m genuinely pleased for him; he’s a unique individual,” Motta added.

“His mindset is commendable, and we are fortunate to have him on our team. He needs to stay self-assured, accept feedback, and continue to perform well—he has a lot to offer.”

The 27-year-old Dutch international joined Juventus from Atalanta for approximately €55 million (around $57.68 million) in August and has now scored his second Serie A goal for the Turin club.

Juventus, currently sitting in fourth place, will host third-placed Atalanta on Sunday, with just three points separating the two teams.

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