For the latest feature in our “Framed” series there was the prize of a place in the knockout stages of the Champions League up for grabs. The Allianz Stadium was suitably ecstatic as Juventus hosted Valencia in the penultimate game of group H.
The Old Lady have forced their way back amongst the absolute elite of European football over the last few seasons, looking comfortable once more in company with the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. The atmosphere in Turin never disappoints when European football is on the menu, as was the case when Valencia rolled into town for the likes of the masked man Paulo Dybala and marked man Cristiano Ronaldo to get their teeth stuck into.
The Spanish side could scant afford a defeat heading into this clash, and their resolute defending was enough to keep an attack that boasted Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala and Cristiano Ronaldo at bay, much to the annoyance of the frustrated home crowd. But you can only keep a beast caged for so long...
A Mario Mandzukic goal in the 60th minute was the difference between the two sides on the night as Juve sealed qualification for the Last 16, while the result in the other Group H fixture between Manchester United and Young Boys meant that Valencia would be exiting Europe’s premier competition at the group stage.
Photography by Mattia Buffoli for SoccerBible
