The Juventus Women’s First Team is gearing up for a pivotal match in the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualification playoff against St. Polten on Wednesday, September 2. After securing a commanding 3-0 victory in the first leg, the Bianconere are focused on maintaining their lead and advancing to the next round.
During a press conference ahead of the match, head coach Isaac Guerrero was joined by midfielder Eva Schatzer, who expressed the team’s readiness and determination. Schatzer emphasized the importance of establishing a strong team identity and style of play, stating, “We started strongly. We wanted to create a team identity and a recognisable style of play. We’ve trained well and the matches are going well. We came into these fixtures, which are already decisive for the season, ready.”
Despite their advantageous position, Schatzer reminded her teammates not to become complacent, referring to the upcoming match as a final. “We are in a good position, but tomorrow we have to be determined and not think that we’ve already qualified,” she said. “Tomorrow is a final, as the coach tells us, and we are prepared.”
Guerrero echoed Schatzer’s sentiments, highlighting the competitive nature of St. Polten, who have proven their mettle by eliminating Sporting Clube de Lisboa and winning all four of their league matches this season. “St. Polten are a very competitive team who have earned their place at this stage,” Guerrero noted. “The girls did very well in the first leg and we’re confident, but tomorrow is a final. Nothing has been decided and we’ll go out there to win.”
The atmosphere within the Juventus camp is reportedly positive, with Schatzer mentioning the strong camaraderie among the players. “There’s a great atmosphere in the dressing room. We trained well during pre-season and obviously it is demanding to play so much, but we always try to make sure we are ready,” she said. Schatzer also expressed her desire to contribute to the team’s success, stating, “The important thing for me is to help the team.”
Guerrero praised his squad’s competitive spirit and the effort they have shown in training. He remarked, “In these 50 days, I’ve really appreciated the competitive level of this team. From the very first training session, they’ve gone onto the pitch with an incredible desire to win.” He also noted that the team’s depth allows for strategic rotations, ensuring that every player is prepared to perform at their best.
As the match approaches, both Guerrero and Schatzer are focused on executing their game plan and imposing their style of play on St. Polten. With the first leg result in their favor, the Bianconere are determined to secure their place in the next round of the UEFA Women’s Champions League and continue their pursuit of European glory.
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