Juventus continued their perfect start to the season on Sunday, as Cristiano Ronaldo’s third goal in Serie A helped them to a 2-0 victory over Frosinone.
The Canarini did their best to frustrate and stifle the Bianconeri, but the Portuguese striker picked up a loose ball in the 81st minute and slid it past Marco Sportiello.
It was a moment of redemption for Ronaldo, who was sent off in controversial fashion against Valencia midweek, while Federico Bernardeschi added a second in injury time to round out the scoring.
The first real chance fell to Juventus in the seventh minute. Ronaldo fired an angled drive that Marco Sportiello got a hand to, before Marco Capuano cleared off the line.
Frosinone’s No.1 denied the Portuguese star once again at the back post, while Daniele Rugani had the best chance of the half. The Italian tried to convert a free kick in acrobatic fashion, but it went over the bar.
Juventus’ inability to breakdown Frosinone’s stubborn resistance continued after the restart. Mario Mandzukic scuffed a shot wide of the mark, while Ronaldo fired a back-hell that was smartly saved by Sportiello.
The deciding moment came in the 81st minute, and the match winner was no surprise. Ronaldo controlled a loose ball in the penalty area, and his scuffed shot found the bottom corner to finally put Juventus ahead.
Bernardeschi added a second in injury time with Frosinone pushing forward. Left open at the back, the Italian controlled the ball, cut past his defender and sent a powerful effort past Sportiello before the final whistle.
Cristiano Ronaldo keeps knock, knock, knocking
The Portuguese striker can’t be blamed for a lack of effort in trying to hit the back of the net. In the 36th minute of the first half, he fired his 37th shot on goal of the season.
That was more than Frosinone – 36 – all campaign. He was justly rewarded with the winner in the second half, and the rest of Serie A have been put on notice should be start to turn more of his shots into goals.
Bernardeschi an added resource
The Italian came on in the second half, and he showed his worth with an influential effort that tipped the tide in Juventus’ favour.
Bernardeschi has looked more settled in his second season in Turin, and if he keeps his form going, it will prove an added bonus not only for the Bianconeri, but also for the Italian national team.
Source: forzaitalianfootball.com