Aquilani: Sassuolo Showed Courage and Matic is a Champion in 3-2 Victory Over Juventus

Alberto Aquilani lauded Sassuolo for their 'courage' in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Juventus, secured with the final kick of the match. He also highlighted Nemanja Matic as 'a champion on and off the field.'

The Mapei Stadium erupted as the Neroverdi defeated Juve. Sebastiano Esposito netted his first goal for the club, assisted by Matic. Kieron Bowie and on-loan Vasilije Adzic sealed the win, despite Edon Zhegrova scoring twice for the opposition. The closing minutes were intense, with four goals between the 82nd and 94th minutes, Adzic scoring the decisive goal as time expired.

Aquilani Praises Sassuolo's Courage

"Yesterday I spoke about courage, as we believe these are our strengths, and we need the bravery to use them, even against Juventus or any other opponent," Aquilani told DAZN Italia. "This victory is most rewarding for that, and it will give these lads even more belief. I'm fortunate to coach them; they gave everything today."

Despite Adzic being tipped to start, Luca Lipani and Kristjan Thorstvedt played before the Juventus loanee entered the game.

"I have many talented players, making selection difficult. Five substitutions have also changed things significantly from my playing days; players truly feel they can contribute from the bench," the Sassuolo coach explained.

"I chose Thorstvedt to support Esposito initially, but I knew Adzic would make a bigger impact against tired legs. Bowie also scored as a substitute, so the players understand they can influence the game."

Matic controlled the midfield tempo and proved decisive again, beyond his assist.

"Matic is a champion, not just on the pitch but in his attitude, his training, and his willingness to explore new ideas. He's a top player in every respect. I arrived with fresh ideas, and everyone here was keen to explore them, even questioning the reasons behind our approach."

Esposito, who joined after a contract dispute with Cagliari this summer, made his first start and scored his first goal for Sassuolo. Darryl Bakola provided the assist for Adzic's late winner after coming on as a substitute.

"Bakola was initially unsure of his best position, but we moved him deeper, and he felt more comfortable. He was also recovering from an injury, but I felt he could trouble tired opponents," Aquilani added. "Esposito can play as a striker or an attacking midfielder, operating between the lines, and he's an excellent finisher. He was sidelined for a while but played at a very high level today."