Juventus Women secured their place in next season's Champions League after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Inter in the Derby d'Italia. The result, combined with other outcomes, guaranteed the Bianconere a top-three finish in Serie A Femminile, meeting their minimum objective for the campaign.
Coach Massimiliano Canzi admitted the first half was "devastating to manage" from a tactical standpoint, as his side struggled to implement what they had prepared. "The first half was very exciting for those watching, but devastating for those who had to manage it," Canzi said in the post-match press conference. He praised his team's resilience, noting that they found the right distances after the break and showed more courage to press higher.
Despite the roller-coaster nature of the match, Canzi considered the point a victory. "For us today it's a win because we had to achieve this objective," he stated. Looking back on the season, he gave a guarded assessment: "I give the season a tight 6.5 out of 10. Reaching the Champions League was the minimum goal, but it had to be accomplished." He acknowledged the increased competitiveness in the league, saying, "The days of just two or three teams dominating are over. Other sides are well-organized and coached."
When asked about his future, the coach confirmed he has a contract until 2027 but added, "We'll think about that at the end. Contracts are normally respected, but everyone has to agree. Right now, the only thing that matters is the next objective." That objective is the Coppa Italia final, scheduled after their final league match against Parma.
Barbara Bonansea also spoke after the match, celebrating a personal milestone: she equaled Cristiana Girelli's record of 241 appearances for Juventus Women. "The number is big. I'm very happy and proud to wear this shirt. Saying it out loud makes me emotional," Bonansea said. She shared the honor with Girelli, adding, "I'm happy to share these appearances with Cristiana."
Bonansea reflected on the significance of clinching Champions League qualification in the derby. "The Derby d'Italia is always important; it has a different scent. Inter are a very strong team and have shown that all year. There was a back-and-forth of goals, and then the game settled. This point was crucial, and securing Champions League in this match has a special flavor." She also touched on her penalty kick, which she converted after initially deciding on a direction. "I had decided on one side and she dived that way, then I managed to change. But I had decided to hit it hard. I'm not as used to taking penalties as Cristiana, but it worked out."
The result means Juventus Women can now approach their remaining fixtures with less pressure. They face Parma in the final league game before turning their attention to the Coppa Italia final, where they will aim to add silverware to a season that, while not perfect, achieved its primary objective.
Canzi's rating of the campaign as a 6.5 reflects the high standards at the club. While Champions League qualification was the baseline, the coach acknowledged the difficulties of a season where consistency was elusive. The first-half struggles against Inter encapsulated those challenges, but the second-half response showed the team's character.
Bonansea's record-tying appearance is a testament to her longevity and importance to the club. As she continues to lead the line, her experience will be vital in the upcoming cup final and next season's European campaign.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.
