Allegri: Juve grew into the game after Torino dropped off

Juventus won a hard-fought Derby Della Mole away at Torino 1-0, thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty after a sloppy back pass had allowed Mario Mandzukic through on goal, and substitute goalkeeper Salvador Ichazo brought the striker down.

“I didn’t see the penalty, as I turned my back to it. I very rarely watch the penalties, to be honest.

“We struggled a bit too much in the first half, when we were too hurried in possession, partly because of their pressing. Afterwards they dropped off a bit and we grew into the game. We managed to play with more width and play off the forwards.

“The lads read the game well and waited for the right moment to strike. I can have no complaints whatsoever.”

Allegri had warned his side previously that they would have a challenge in the Derby.

“It was a tricky match because it came just three days after our Champions League game, because it was the derby and because Torino are in great form at the moment. It’s a great result for us and a big step forward.

“Despite playing on a poor pitch, we played well in the second half. We created lots of chances and gave nothing away.”

Torino gave Juve a hard time throughout the game and showed why they were sitting in sixth place in the Scudetto race this season.

“The team was set out well, the lads showed a spirit of self-sacrifice and were very unified. In the first half, Torino caused us problems with their pressing, but we took control after the break and our forwards did well.

“It’s a positive sign that we emerged in the long run, as it means the team is in good shape physically. This is a positive result and it allows us to take another step forward.”

Meanwhile, former Juve Director General Beppe Marotta signed on for the same role at Inter Milan, and director Pavel Nedved hit out at him with a snide comment -

“It was strange seeing him at Inter, now that it’s official.

“He is a professional, but perhaps was never a Juventino.”