Marcus Rashford's swerving strike from distance earned Manchester United a 1-0 win at Real Betis on Thursday and passage to the Europa League quarter-finals with a 5-1 aggregate triumph.

Three-time champions Juventus earned a 2-0 win over 10-man Freiburg to progress 3-0 on aggregate, with goals from Dusan Vlahovic and Federico Chiesa.

Record six-time winners Sevilla suffered a nervy 1-0 defeat at Fenerbahce as Enner Valencia netted from the spot, but still qualified 2-1 on aggregate.

Joaquin hit the post for Betis and Juanmi spurned two clear chances for the hosts as they started well, trying to overturn their three-goal deficit at the lively Benito Villamarin stadium.

However Rashford's brilliant goal early in the second half quelled that idea and United saw the game out comfortably as Betis' energy levels dipped.

"Once you score the first goal the game is gone, and they don't have the belief anymore," said Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag.

"That is another step (forward) we made mentality, a winning attitude, to deal with that,” he added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-united-arsenal-eye-qf-berth-sevilla-roma-also-in-running-for-last-8-place-572682">Europa League: Manchester United, Arsenal eye QF berth; Sevilla, Roma also in running for last 8 place</a>

Ten Hag handed 21-year-old winger Facundo Pellistri his first start for the club in sun-washed Seville, after some bright cameos from the bench.

After Juanmi's misses Pellistri came inches from putting United ahead, with his effort hitting the post.

The visitors took the lead early in the second half, through Rashford's thunderbolt.

The forward, in remarkable form this season, missed two fine chances after the break but swiftly made amends with a vicious shot from outside the area which flew past Rui Silva and into the bottom corner.

It was Rashford's sixth goal of the tournament and his 27th across all competitions this season, in 43 appearances.

"Rashy had some chances before, and he missed some but he kept his belief, he kept trying and got his reward," added Ten Hag.

United's coach had run a risk by lining up with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, who were each a booking away from suspension, but they survived unscathed.

"When we found out the draw, we knew we had the hardest opponent in the Europa League, with a huge budget, prepared for the Champions League," said Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini.

"In the second leg we had three clear chances to change the dynamic, while they had one and they stuck it in. But I am proud of my team, which did not change its identity,” he stated.

Juventus, Sevilla through&nbsp;

Juventus, leading Freiburg by a goal from the first leg, thought they had taken the lead when Vlahovic struck from close range, but it was ruled offside by VAR.

However the Serbian forward broke the deadlock just before the break from the penalty spot after Manuel Gulde handled in the box and was shown his second yellow card.

With Juventus fully in control and Freiburg at a numerical disadvantage, the tie was as good as over and Chiesa wrapped up the win late on.

Jorge Sampaoli's Sevilla, struggling badly in La Liga, suffered defeat in Turkey but had done enough at home to progress against Fenerbahce and continue their charge.

Michy Batshuayi went off injured for the hosts early on, damaging their comeback bid, but Jorge Jesus' team took the lead when Alex Telles handled in the box.

WATCH | Qatari group preparing Manchester United takeover

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Veteran Ecuador striker Valencia drilled home his 24th goal of the season for Fenerbahce.

Sevilla held out to progress despite pressure from the hosts in the second half, as they looked for a second goal to force extra-time.

Feyenoord thrashed Shakhtar Donetsk 7-1 on the night at De Kuip to progress to the last eight 8-2 on aggregate.

Later Thursday Arsenal host Sporting Lisbon after a 2-2 draw in the first leg, while Jose Mourinho's Roma hold a 2-0 lead over Real Sociedad as they visit San Sebastian.

In the UEFA Conference League last 16 Fiorentina thrashed Sivasspor 4-1, triumphing 5-1 on aggregate, while Lech Poznan beat Djurgarden 3-0 to go through 5-0 overall.

Later on West Ham host AEK Larnaca with a 2-0 lead and Villarreal welcome Anderlecht after sharing a 1-1 draw with the Belgians in the first leg.&nbsp;

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Marcus Rashford's swerving strike from distance earned Manchester United a 1-0 win at Real Betis on Thursday and passage to the Europa League quarter-finals with a 5-1 aggregate triumph.

Marcus Rashford's swerving strike from distance earned Manchester United a 1-0 win at Real Betis on Thursday and passage to the Europa League quarter-finals with a 5-1 aggregate triumph. Three-time champions Juventus earned a 2-0 win over 10-man Freiburg to progress 3-0 on aggregate, with goals from Dusan Vlahovic and Federico Chiesa. Record six-time winners Sevilla suffered a nervy 1-0 defeat at Fenerbahce as Enner Valencia netted from the spot, but still qualified 2-1 on aggregate. Joaquin hit the post for Betis and Juanmi spurned two clear chances for the hosts as they started well, trying to overturn their three-goal deficit at the lively Benito Villamarin stadium. However Rashford's brilliant goal early in the second half quelled that idea and United saw the game out comfortably as Betis' energy levels dipped. "Once you score the first goal the game is gone, and they don't have the belief anymore," said Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag. "That is another step (forward) we made mentality, a winning attitude, to deal with that,” he added. ALSO READ | Europa League: Manchester United, Arsenal eye QF berth; Sevilla, Roma also in running for last 8 place Ten Hag handed 21-year-old winger Facundo Pellistri his first start for the club in sun-washed Seville, after some bright cameos from the bench. After Juanmi's misses Pellistri came inches from putting United ahead, with his effort hitting the post. The visitors took the lead early in the second half, through Rashford's thunderbolt. The forward, in remarkable form this season, missed two fine chances after the break but swiftly made amends with a vicious shot from outside the area which flew past Rui Silva and into the bottom corner. It was Rashford's sixth goal of the tournament and his 27th across all competitions this season, in 43 appearances. "Rashy had some chances before, and he missed some but he kept his belief, he kept trying and got his reward," added Ten Hag. United's coach had run a risk by lining up with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, who were each a booking away from suspension, but they survived unscathed. "When we found out the draw, we knew we had the hardest opponent in the Europa League, with a huge budget, prepared for the Champions League," said Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini. "In the second leg we had three clear chances to change the dynamic, while they had one and they stuck it in. But I am proud of my team, which did not change its identity,” he stated. Juventus, Sevilla through Juventus, leading Freiburg by a goal from the first leg, thought they had taken the lead when Vlahovic struck from close range, but it was ruled offside by VAR. However the Serbian forward broke the deadlock just before the break from the penalty spot after Manuel Gulde handled in the box and was shown his second yellow card. With Juventus fully in control and Freiburg at a numerical disadvantage, the tie was as good as over and Chiesa wrapped up the win late on. Jorge Sampaoli's Sevilla, struggling badly in La Liga, suffered defeat in Turkey but had done enough at home to progress against Fenerbahce and continue their charge. Michy Batshuayi went off injured for the hosts early on, damaging their comeback bid, but Jorge Jesus' team took the lead when Alex Telles handled in the box. WATCH | Qatari group preparing Manchester United takeover Veteran Ecuador striker Valencia drilled home his 24th goal of the season for Fenerbahce. Sevilla held out to progress despite pressure from the hosts in the second half, as they looked for a second goal to force extra-time. Feyenoord thrashed Shakhtar Donetsk 7-1 on the night at De Kuip to progress to the last eight 8-2 on aggregate. Later Thursday Arsenal host Sporting Lisbon after a 2-2 draw in the first leg, while Jose Mourinho's Roma hold a 2-0 lead over Real Sociedad as they visit San Sebastian. In the UEFA Conference League last 16 Fiorentina thrashed Sivasspor 4-1, triumphing 5-1 on aggregate, while Lech Poznan beat Djurgarden 3-0 to go through 5-0 overall. Later on West Ham host AEK Larnaca with a 2-0 lead and Villarreal welcome Anderlecht after sharing a 1-1 draw with the Belgians in the first leg. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Rashford sends Man United into Europa League quarters as Juve, Sevilla progress

Andrea Pirlo's hopes of convincing Juventus bosses he deserves another season as coach will be under scrutiny on Sunday as his side look to snatch a Champions League spot on the final day of the Serie A season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-steven-gerrard-david-beckham-complete-premier-league-hall-of-fame-2021-inductees-list-386307" hreflang="en">Football: Steven Gerrard, David Beckham complete Premier League Hall of Fame 2021 inductees list</a>

Juventus are in a three-team race with AC Milan and Napoli for the final two places behind champions Inter Milan and Atalanta.

AC Milan and Napoli, both on 76 points, are a point clear of Juve, who travel to 11th-placed Bologna hoping to avoid missing out on the Champions League for the first time since 2011-12.

Despite being denied a 10th consecutive Serie A title, the Turin giants have won two trophies in Pirlo's debut season, the Italian Cup and Italian Super Cup, and he wants to continue in the hotseat.

"There is still a crucial game and it will be a battle, then we will take stock," said the 42-year-old.

"The victories do not cancel out the difficulties, but in my first year I have learned a lot.

"Now we head into Sunday, when our future will be decided, even if it's not all in our hands."

Juve's European hopes depend on beaten cup finalists Atalanta's match against AC Milan in Bergamo, and Napoli's game at home against midtable Hellas Verona.

Gian Piero Gasperini's Atalanta are focused on achieving their first Serie A runners-up finish, four days after losing out in their bid for a first trophy since 1963.

"We are not responsible for the fate of others even if they all try to pull us by the jacket for this match," said Gasperini. "Everyone is responsible for their own destiny.

"We have scored the points and we will play to finish in second place, knowing however that we have already reached our target."

Milan have only managed one win in their last 11 Serie A matches against Atalanta, with the Bergamo side winning their last home game against Milan 5-0.

Atalanta could exceed their best-ever points tally, already equalled with 78. In addition, they could claim a club record number of league games won in a season, now equalled with 23, and have the top attack in the league for a third straight campaign with 90 goals scored.

Champions Inter Milan will get to celebrate their first league title since 2010 in front of 1,000 supporters in their final game at the San Siro against Udinese on Sunday.

According to reports, they will not be paying fans, but 'Nerazzurri' guests, including employees, staff, families of the players and sponsors.

At the end of the match, Antonio Conte's side will receive the league trophy.

Key stats:

90 goals: Atalanta are the top scorers in the league for a third consecutive season.

28 goals: Ronaldo is set to finish the season as top scorer.

15: AC Milan's wins away from home this season

1: Point between Juve and Champions League rivals AC Milan and Napoli.

Fixtures (all times GMT):

Saturday

Cagliari v Genoa, Crotone v Fiorentina, Sampdoria v Parma (all 1845)

Sunday

Inter Milan v Udinese (1300), Atalanta v AC Milan, Bologna v Juventus, Napoli v Hellas Verona, Sassuolo v Lazio, Spezia v Roma, Torino v Benevento (all 1845)

Andrea Pirlo's hopes of convincing Juventus bosses he deserves another season as coach will be under scrutiny on Sunday as his side look to snatch a Champions League spot on the final day of the Serie A season.

Andrea Pirlo's hopes of convincing Juventus bosses he deserves another season as coach will be under scrutiny on Sunday as his side look to snatch a Champions League spot on the final day of the Serie A season. ALSO READ: Football: Steven Gerrard, David Beckham complete Premier League Hall of Fame 2021 inductees list Juventus are in a three-team race with AC Milan and Napoli for the final two places behind champions Inter Milan and Atalanta. AC Milan and Napoli, both on 76 points, are a point clear of Juve, who travel to 11th-placed Bologna hoping to avoid missing out on the Champions League for the first time since 2011-12. Despite being denied a 10th consecutive Serie A title, the Turin giants have won two trophies in Pirlo's debut season, the Italian Cup and Italian Super Cup, and he wants to continue in the hotseat. "There is still a crucial game and it will be a battle, then we will take stock," said the 42-year-old. "The victories do not cancel out the difficulties, but in my first year I have learned a lot. "Now we head into Sunday, when our future will be decided, even if it's not all in our hands." Juve's European hopes depend on beaten cup finalists Atalanta's match against AC Milan in Bergamo, and Napoli's game at home against midtable Hellas Verona. Gian Piero Gasperini's Atalanta are focused on achieving their first Serie A runners-up finish, four days after losing out in their bid for a first trophy since 1963. "We are not responsible for the fate of others even if they all try to pull us by the jacket for this match," said Gasperini. "Everyone is responsible for their own destiny. "We have scored the points and we will play to finish in second place, knowing however that we have already reached our target." Milan have only managed one win in their last 11 Serie A matches against Atalanta, with the Bergamo side winning their last home game against Milan 5-0. Atalanta could exceed their best-ever points tally, already equalled with 78. In addition, they could claim a club record number of league games won in a season, now equalled with 23, and have the top attack in the league for a third straight campaign with 90 goals scored. Champions Inter Milan will get to celebrate their first league title since 2010 in front of 1,000 supporters in their final game at the San Siro against Udinese on Sunday. According to reports, they will not be paying fans, but 'Nerazzurri' guests, including employees, staff, families of the players and sponsors. At the end of the match, Antonio Conte's side will receive the league trophy. Key stats: 90 goals: Atalanta are the top scorers in the league for a third consecutive season. 28 goals: Ronaldo is set to finish the season as top scorer. 15: AC Milan's wins away from home this season 1: Point between Juve and Champions League rivals AC Milan and Napoli. Fixtures (all times GMT): Saturday Cagliari v Genoa, Crotone v Fiorentina, Sampdoria v Parma (all 1845) Sunday Inter Milan v Udinese (1300), Atalanta v AC Milan, Bologna v Juventus, Napoli v Hellas Verona, Sassuolo v Lazio, Spezia v Roma, Torino v Benevento (all 1845)

Football: Pirlo's Juve future under microscope in three-team Champions League race

Juventus's Champions League quarter-final defeat by a young Ajax Amsterdam side last month was more than just a shock result -- it was a footballing lesson for the team who have dominated Serie A this season.

In particular, it was clear the Dutch side, with their pinpoint passing exchanges and relentless pressing, had one thing their Turin opponents lacked -- an easily identifiable style of play.

Despite winning a fifth successive Serie A title with Juventus this season, it was no surprise when the club announced on Friday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/massimiliano-allegri-to-leave-juventus-at-end-of-season-219433">coach Massimiliano Allegri would leave after this season</a>, one year before the end of his contract.

Allegri, 51, has always said that winning major titles should never be underestimated, yet there was something strangely unsatisfying about this season's campaign.

There were none of the thrilling displays served up by teams such as Manchester City or Ajax, nor the raw passion of Juergen Klopp's Liverpool.

Instead, Juve relied on their resilience, flexibility, moments of individual brilliance from five-times World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo and even, sometimes, just a lucky break.

It was enough to win them another Italian title -- their eighth in a row altogether including Allegri's five -- but not enough to bring them the Champions League, which was seen as the priority after defeats in the 2015 and 2017 finals.

They also failed to win the Italian Cup this season after Allegri last term became the first manager in Europe's top five leagues to win four consecutive doubles.

The reasons for his departure have not yet been explained, with the coach and club president Andrea Agnelli due to give a news conference on Saturday.

Maybe he was running short of motivation.

When a team dominates their national league in the way Juve have done and set the Champions League as the main target, it means the season does not effectively begin until February when the knockout stages of the European competition get underway.

Anything before that -- establishing a lead at the top of the league and getting through the Champions League group stage -- becomes an obligation rather than a challenge.

Transfer policy

Gazzetta dello Sport suggested that Allegri also wanted more control over the club's transfer policy.

Juventus splurged more than 250 million euros ($278.90 million) in the transfer market in the close season, yet more of that went on their reserve goalkeeper, Mattia Perin, than improving the midfield.

In attack, Ronaldo cost 117 million euros and winger Douglas Costa another 40 million, while at the back 40 million went on right back Joao Cancelo and 35 million on bringing back central defender Leonardo Bonucci from AC Milan.

But the midfield was not strengthened, and it showed on the pitch with too much sterile possession.

When Allegri took over five years ago, his midfield included Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba.

Today, it is still an impressive lineup - Miralem Pjanic, Rodrigo Bentancur, Emre Can and Blaise Matuidi have all played for their countries. But it is not quite enough for a team with Champions League title ambitions.

Critics said that Allegri was also partly to blame, as his constant chopping and changing may have prevented the players from developing a true understanding.

Allegri's first words after the announcement were to an Italian comedy programme.

"It took five years to build this Juve, but that’s that. Life goes around," he said.

"I’m going home now, then I’ll have a little break by the sea. I don’t know who will follow me but Juve will choose a great coach because Juventus are a great club."

Juventus's Champions League quarter-final defeat by a young Ajax Amsterdam side last month was more than just a shock result -- it was a footballing lesson for the team who have dominated Serie A this season.

Juventus's Champions League quarter-final defeat by a young Ajax Amsterdam side last month was more than just a shock result -- it was a footballing lesson for the team who have dominated Serie A this season. In particular, it was clear the Dutch side, with their pinpoint passing exchanges and relentless pressing, had one thing their Turin opponents lacked -- an easily identifiable style of play. Despite winning a fifth successive Serie A title with Juventus this season, it was no surprise when the club announced on Friday that coach Massimiliano Allegri would leave after this season, one year before the end of his contract. Allegri, 51, has always said that winning major titles should never be underestimated, yet there was something strangely unsatisfying about this season's campaign. There were none of the thrilling displays served up by teams such as Manchester City or Ajax, nor the raw passion of Juergen Klopp's Liverpool. Instead, Juve relied on their resilience, flexibility, moments of individual brilliance from five-times World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo and even, sometimes, just a lucky break. It was enough to win them another Italian title -- their eighth in a row altogether including Allegri's five -- but not enough to bring them the Champions League, which was seen as the priority after defeats in the 2015 and 2017 finals. They also failed to win the Italian Cup this season after Allegri last term became the first manager in Europe's top five leagues to win four consecutive doubles. The reasons for his departure have not yet been explained, with the coach and club president Andrea Agnelli due to give a news conference on Saturday. Maybe he was running short of motivation. When a team dominates their national league in the way Juve have done and set the Champions League as the main target, it means the season does not effectively begin until February when the knockout stages of the European competition get underway. Anything before that -- establishing a lead at the top of the league and getting through the Champions League group stage -- becomes an obligation rather than a challenge. Transfer policy Gazzetta dello Sport suggested that Allegri also wanted more control over the club's transfer policy. Juventus splurged more than 250 million euros ($278.90 million) in the transfer market in the close season, yet more of that went on their reserve goalkeeper, Mattia Perin, than improving the midfield. In attack, Ronaldo cost 117 million euros and winger Douglas Costa another 40 million, while at the back 40 million went on right back Joao Cancelo and 35 million on bringing back central defender Leonardo Bonucci from AC Milan. But the midfield was not strengthened, and it showed on the pitch with too much sterile possession. When Allegri took over five years ago, his midfield included Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba. Today, it is still an impressive lineup - Miralem Pjanic, Rodrigo Bentancur, Emre Can and Blaise Matuidi have all played for their countries. But it is not quite enough for a team with Champions League title ambitions. Critics said that Allegri was also partly to blame, as his constant chopping and changing may have prevented the players from developing a true understanding. Allegri's first words after the announcement were to an Italian comedy programme. "It took five years to build this Juve, but that’s that. Life goes around," he said. "I’m going home now, then I’ll have a little break by the sea. I don’t know who will follow me but Juve will choose a great coach because Juventus are a great club."

Juve's Allegri may have been victim of his own pragmatism

Juventus star player Cristiano Ronaldo has reached another milestone as he became the first player to score 400 goals in Europe's top five leagues.

Despite his stunning goal, Juventus dropped points for the first time this season as their perfect start came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-thinking-about-man-utd-as-perfect-serie-a-run-ends-172598"> earned a 1-1</a>.

Ronaldo's fifth Serie A goal for Juve was added to his 84 Premier League strikes for Manchester United and 311 in La Liga for Real Madrid.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
👏⚽️ <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> is now the first ever player to score 4️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ goals in the five major European leagues.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JuveGenoa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JuveGenoa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CR7JUVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CR7JUVE</a> <a href="https://t.co/ETSFUA1w1C">pic.twitter.com/ETSFUA1w1C</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1053745195207061504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Cristiano Ronaldo gave Juventus a deserved lead in a dominant first half when he apped in after Joao Cancelo's shot was blocked - having earlier hit the post with a header.

The hosts dominated most of the game out of their 21, only three were on target, all from Ronaldo.

The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was dampened after racist chants during Juve’s last home league game against Napoli resulted in a closure of the ‘Curva Sud’ section of the stadium. The Italian champions, though, were allowed to fill the seats with local school children.

Juventus star player Cristiano Ronaldo has reached another milestone as he became the first player to score 400 goals in Europe's top five leagues. Despite his stunning goal, Juventus dropped points for the first time this season as their perfect start came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1.

Juventus star player Cristiano Ronaldo has reached another milestone as he became the first player to score 400 goals in Europe's top five leagues. Despite his stunning goal, Juventus dropped points for the first time this season as their perfect start came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1. Ronaldo's fifth Serie A goal for Juve was added to his 84 Premier League strikes for Manchester United and 311 in La Liga for Real Madrid. 👏⚽️ @Cristiano is now the first ever player to score 4️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ goals in the five major European leagues.#JuveGenoa #CR7JUVE pic.twitter.com/ETSFUA1w1C — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) October 20, 2018 × Cristiano Ronaldo gave Juventus a deserved lead in a dominant first half when he apped in after Joao Cancelo's shot was blocked - having earlier hit the post with a header. The hosts dominated most of the game out of their 21, only three were on target, all from Ronaldo. The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was dampened after racist chants during Juve’s last home league game against Napoli resulted in a closure of the ‘Curva Sud’ section of the stadium. The Italian champions, though, were allowed to fill the seats with local school children.

Juve star Cristiano Ronaldo reaches another milestone

Juventus’ perfect start to the season came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1 Serie A draw on Ivan Juric’s return as coach.

The Croatian boss replaced Davide Ballardini before the international break for his third spell in charge of Genoa and he made an immediate impact as the Italian champions failed to record a victory for the first time in nine league games this season.

Cristiano Ronaldo gave Juventus a deserved lead in a dominant first half, but sloppy defending from the hosts allowed Daniel Bessa to draw Genoa level after the break and end Juve's winning streak at ten matches in all competitions.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri blamed his players for being sidetracked by their Champions League trip to Manchester United on Tuesday.

“It’s simple,” he told reporters. “Genoa did well not toexpose themselves, but these things shouldn’t happen. We played for 10 minutes and then started thinking about Manchester.

“We went from being frenetic to falling asleep and vice-versa. We should have had our mind on the job. "I think it’ll be a good lesson for us, as this is a wake-up call, so everyone can remember that nothing is to be taken for granted. Every match has to be won on the pitch in 90 minutes. Nothing is guaranteed or won before we’ve stepped on to the pitch.

“It’ll be very different with Manchester United, as we will both be playing to win. Genoa did well today to play in defence and try to stay in the game, but I have to say this was the biggest example of drifting out of the game that I’ve seen in my five years at Juventus.”

Ronaldo had come close to opening the scoring after just 14 minutes when he powered a header onto the post from a Juan Cuadrado cross.

The Portuguese opened his account just five minutes later, tapping in from close range after Genoa failed to clear their lines when Joao Cancelo’s shot took an awkward deflection inside the box.

The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was dampened after racist chants during Juve’s last home league game against Napoli resulted in a closure of the ‘Curva Sud’ section of the stadium. The Italian champions, though, were allowed to fill the seats with local school children.

Krzysztof Piatek, who leads the Serie A scoring charts with nine goals, tested Wojciech Szczesny from range before flashing a header wide as the visitors improved after the break and Juric’s side drew level when Daniel Bessa headed home from close range on 68 minutes after the Juve defence switched off.

There were further chances for Ronaldo, Miralem Pjanic and substitute Paulo Dybala but Juric’s players stood firm to earn an unexpected point.

Earlier, Roma suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to SPAL courtesy of an Andrea Petagna penalty and a Kevin Bonifazi header either side of the break. The result leaves the capital club in sixth place before Sunday’s games, 11 points adrift of leaders Juventus.

Juventus’ perfect start to the season came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1 Serie A draw on Ivan Juric’s return as coach. The Croatian boss replaced Davide Ballardini before the international break for his third spell in charge of Genoa and he made an immediate impact as the Italian champions failed to record a victory for the first time in nine league games this season.

Juventus’ perfect start to the season came to an end in Turin on Saturday as Genoa earned a 1-1 Serie A draw on Ivan Juric’s return as coach. The Croatian boss replaced Davide Ballardini before the international break for his third spell in charge of Genoa and he made an immediate impact as the Italian champions failed to record a victory for the first time in nine league games this season. Cristiano Ronaldo gave Juventus a deserved lead in a dominant first half, but sloppy defending from the hosts allowed Daniel Bessa to draw Genoa level after the break and end Juve's winning streak at ten matches in all competitions. Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri blamed his players for being sidetracked by their Champions League trip to Manchester United on Tuesday. “It’s simple,” he told reporters. “Genoa did well not toexpose themselves, but these things shouldn’t happen. We played for 10 minutes and then started thinking about Manchester. “We went from being frenetic to falling asleep and vice-versa. We should have had our mind on the job. "I think it’ll be a good lesson for us, as this is a wake-up call, so everyone can remember that nothing is to be taken for granted. Every match has to be won on the pitch in 90 minutes. Nothing is guaranteed or won before we’ve stepped on to the pitch. “It’ll be very different with Manchester United, as we will both be playing to win. Genoa did well today to play in defence and try to stay in the game, but I have to say this was the biggest example of drifting out of the game that I’ve seen in my five years at Juventus.” Ronaldo had come close to opening the scoring after just 14 minutes when he powered a header onto the post from a Juan Cuadrado cross. The Portuguese opened his account just five minutes later, tapping in from close range after Genoa failed to clear their lines when Joao Cancelo’s shot took an awkward deflection inside the box. The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was dampened after racist chants during Juve’s last home league game against Napoli resulted in a closure of the ‘Curva Sud’ section of the stadium. The Italian champions, though, were allowed to fill the seats with local school children. Krzysztof Piatek, who leads the Serie A scoring charts with nine goals, tested Wojciech Szczesny from range before flashing a header wide as the visitors improved after the break and Juric’s side drew level when Daniel Bessa headed home from close range on 68 minutes after the Juve defence switched off. There were further chances for Ronaldo, Miralem Pjanic and substitute Paulo Dybala but Juric’s players stood firm to earn an unexpected point. Earlier, Roma suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to SPAL courtesy of an Andrea Petagna penalty and a Kevin Bonifazi header either side of the break. The result leaves the capital club in sixth place before Sunday’s games, 11 points adrift of leaders Juventus.

Juventus 'thinking about Man Utd' as perfect Serie A run ends

SS Napoli defeated Juventus in a dramatic fashion as Kalidou Koulibaly scored with a header in the 89th minute and stunned Serie A leaders Juventus on Sunday at Allianz Arena, Munich.

When the match started, players from both the team had red stripes on their cheek. Not only Juventus and Napoli players, but this trend was actively promoted this weekend by all Serie A players.

When the players entered the field with red marks on their face then the fans and spectators were surprised but after some time, the commentators revealed that it is a part of a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women.

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The players are sporting red marks on their face in support of a campaign against domestic violence 
 
?? <a href="https://twitter.com/SerieA_TIM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SerieA_TIM</a> <a href="https://t.co/aH6DrKQeWG">pic.twitter.com/aH6DrKQeWG</a>
— Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) <a href="https://twitter.com/en_sscnapoli/status/988131785300201472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The players were expressing solidarity with victims of domestic abuse.

We World Onlus, a humanitarian organisation teamed up with Serie A players to promote the campaign worldwide. So far, the campaign has been very successful in reaching worldwide audiences.

Also, the players should be applauded for taking part&nbspand encouraging the campaign even in the crucial matches.

Seria A teams took part in a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women

SS Napoli defeated Juventus in a dramatic fashion as Kalidou Koulibaly scored with a header in the 89th minute and stunned Serie A leaders Juventus on Sunday at Allianz Arena, Munich. When the match started, players from both the team had red stripes on their cheek. Not only Juventus and Napoli players, but this trend was actively promoted this weekend by all Serie A players. When the players entered the field with red marks on their face then the fans and spectators were surprised but after some time, the commentators revealed that it is a part of a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women. The players are sporting red marks on their face in support of a campaign against domestic violence ?? @SerieA_TIM pic.twitter.com/aH6DrKQeWG — Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) April 22, 2018 × The players were expressing solidarity with victims of domestic abuse. We World Onlus, a humanitarian organisation teamed up with Serie A players to promote the campaign worldwide. So far, the campaign has been very successful in reaching worldwide audiences. Also, the players should be applauded for taking part&nbspand encouraging the campaign even in the crucial matches.

Here is why Buffon, Dybala and other players were playing with red mark on their cheeks

Juventus beatn Crotone 3-0 to win their sixth consecutive league title.

The win means they have an unassailable fpour-point lead over second-placed AS Roma.

Massimiliano Allegri&#39;s men took a one-point lead over Roma into their penultimate game of the league campaign and needed a win to secure the title.

Ahead of their final game at Bologna next week, Juve are now four points ahead of their closest challengers.

Mandzukic gave the hosts a 12th minute lead when he met Juan Cuadrado&#39;s cross at the back post to fire past Alex Cordaz in the visitors&#39; net.

Croatia international Mandzukic, celebrating his 31st birthday, almost gave Juve a 2-0 lead before Fabio Sampirisi toe-poked the ball away from the big forward as he teed up.

But the fans who packed out Juve&#39;s stadium for their final home game of the campaign were not to be denied.

Dybala doubled the Turin giants&#39; lead with a sumptuous free kick that curled into the top corner to leave Cordaz with no chance six minutes before half-time.

And their third consecutive league and Cup double, also a record, was al but sealed seven minutes before full time when Cordaz palmed Sandro&#39;s bullet header in off the underside of the crossbar, goal-line technology confirming it had crossed the line.

Juventus&nbsp;will now turn their focus to winning an unprecedented club treble when they face 11-time champions Real Madrid in the Champions League June 3 final in Cardiff.

These are the five keys to Juventus&#39;s title success this season:

Recruitment

Juventus&#39;s path to a record sixth consecutive &#39;scudetto&#39;, and a possible treble of trophies, has been a steady work in progress but the Turin club&#39;s recruitment policy, particularly last summer, was key. Although coach Massimiliano Allegri picked his targets, most of the credit will go to general director Beppe Marotta, who thanks to some shrewd negotiating added quality to the squad -- and at a cut-price cost. Snapping up Paul Pogba on a free transfer from Manchester United in 2012 and then selling the emerging French star back to the Premier League giants for 105m euros, an all-time record, last summer helped balance the books. It helped cushion the blow of paying 90m euros, an Italian record, to Napoli for the southerners&#39; 36-goal hero Gonzalo Higuain, whose 24 goals before their final game at Bologna was among the league&#39;s best. Following Andre Pirlo&#39;s departure in 2015, Juventus snapped up Bosnian free-kick specialist and midfielder Miralem Pjanic from Roma, in the process denting the capital club&#39;s title hopes. The cherry on the cake was the addition of former Barcelona right-back Dani Alves, who arrived on a free transfer and has since proved pivotal to their success in Italy as well as their ongoing campaign in Europe.

Tactics and man management

Under Allegri, who in 2011 helped AC Milan end a seven-year wait for the scudetto, Juventus have become one of the most potent, well-rounded teams in Europe only four years after former coach Antonio Conte dismissed their chances of ever challenging for continental honours. Allegri&#39;s nose for tactics, and how to motivate his players has been crucial. After three years of playing a 3-5-2 formation under Conte, and failing to reach the Champions League final, Allegri has reached two in just three years, having opted earlier this season for a 4-2-3-1 that, with considerable focus on individual defensive duties as well as a potent attack, has won plaudits throughout the game. Thanks to evergreen goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and a rock-solid back four bossed by Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, Juve have conceded only 26 league goals so far. Pjanic overcame a mercurial start to the season to hit some crucial free-kicks for the champions, while Juve&#39;s attack -- a three-man front line of Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala and Juan Cuadrado -- all supporting lone striker Higuain -- has scored a combined total of 43 goals.

Flexible front men

At the start of the campaign Allegri had a problem: making sure Higuain, freshly arrived from Napoli with a new 36-league goal Serie A record in his pocket, didn&#39;t go goal-hungry. To whet Higuain&#39;s appetite but also keep the Argentina striker within the realms of his tactical plan, Allegri reshuffled, and after a few teething problems found the magic formula. Allegri convinced Mario Mandzukic to take a role out wide on the left, a switch that, despite a comparative lack of goals, brought the best out of the Croatian striker who has won extra plaudits for some dogged defensive displays. Argentina starlet Paulo Dybala slipped into his preferred role just behind Higuain, allowing the diminutive playmaker free reign on the edge of the area to dazzle opposition defences, score goals and provide crosses into the danger zone. Colombian Juan Cuadrado was at home out wide on the right, where his pace and creativity are regular problems for opposition defences. With such support, Higuain could hardly complain. Although he remains four goals behind Serie A&#39;s leading scorer Edin Dzeko, who has hit 28, Higuain has fulfilled his wish of winning trophies in Italy.

Rock solid defence

Once known for the ultra-defensive &#39;catenaccio&#39; system, designed primarily to stop opposing teams from scoring, Italian teams have since woken up to the fact that attacking play is crucial to success if they are to keep pace in Europe. But one of the keys to Juve&#39;s success this season was Allegri&#39;s insistence on every player performing defensive duties. Most, even Higuain -- who received flak in the past for being overweight and shirking when it came to tracking back -- was receptive to the idea. Two years after losing the Champions League final 3-1 to Barcelona, Allegri dangled the carrot of another promising European campaign in front of the players. And to a man, the Bianconeri responded, upping their defensive game by chasing lost possession and tracking back to cut down opposition teams&#39; chances.

Captain Buffon

Juventus wouldn&#39;t be in their current position without long-serving goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who at 39 years old remains the bedrock, and captain of the Turin giants as they head towards a possible treble, and he heads towards an expected retirement following an eventual Italy campaign at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The Champions League title remains the only major accolade missing from the 2006 World Cup winner&#39;s list of honours, but Buffon has kept his eye on the ball no matter the opposition. Two years after being nominated for the UEFA save of the season award, when he stopped Dani Alves in the 2015 Champions League final, Buffon defied the onset of age to maintain spectacular form, earning his place on the 30-man shortlist for the Ballon D&#39;Or, placing ninth in the final voting alongside Real Madrid centre-back Pepe. Last January Buffon was awarded the Serie A goalkeeper of the award for an 11th time.

(AFP)

Juventus now have an unassailable four-point lead over Roma

Juventus beatn Crotone 3-0 to win their sixth consecutive league title. The win means they have an unassailable fpour-point lead over second-placed AS Roma. Massimiliano Allegri's men took a one-point lead over Roma into their penultimate game of the league campaign and needed a win to secure the title. Ahead of their final game at Bologna next week, Juve are now four points ahead of their closest challengers. Mandzukic gave the hosts a 12th minute lead when he met Juan Cuadrado's cross at the back post to fire past Alex Cordaz in the visitors' net. Croatia international Mandzukic, celebrating his 31st birthday, almost gave Juve a 2-0 lead before Fabio Sampirisi toe-poked the ball away from the big forward as he teed up. But the fans who packed out Juve's stadium for their final home game of the campaign were not to be denied. Dybala doubled the Turin giants' lead with a sumptuous free kick that curled into the top corner to leave Cordaz with no chance six minutes before half-time. And their third consecutive league and Cup double, also a record, was al but sealed seven minutes before full time when Cordaz palmed Sandro's bullet header in off the underside of the crossbar, goal-line technology confirming it had crossed the line. Juventus will now turn their focus to winning an unprecedented club treble when they face 11-time champions Real Madrid in the Champions League June 3 final in Cardiff. These are the five keys to Juventus's title success this season: Recruitment Juventus's path to a record sixth consecutive 'scudetto', and a possible treble of trophies, has been a steady work in progress but the Turin club's recruitment policy, particularly last summer, was key. Although coach Massimiliano Allegri picked his targets, most of the credit will go to general director Beppe Marotta, who thanks to some shrewd negotiating added quality to the squad -- and at a cut-price cost. Snapping up Paul Pogba on a free transfer from Manchester United in 2012 and then selling the emerging French star back to the Premier League giants for 105m euros, an all-time record, last summer helped balance the books. It helped cushion the blow of paying 90m euros, an Italian record, to Napoli for the southerners' 36-goal hero Gonzalo Higuain, whose 24 goals before their final game at Bologna was among the league's best. Following Andre Pirlo's departure in 2015, Juventus snapped up Bosnian free-kick specialist and midfielder Miralem Pjanic from Roma, in the process denting the capital club's title hopes. The cherry on the cake was the addition of former Barcelona right-back Dani Alves, who arrived on a free transfer and has since proved pivotal to their success in Italy as well as their ongoing campaign in Europe. Tactics and man management Under Allegri, who in 2011 helped AC Milan end a seven-year wait for the scudetto, Juventus have become one of the most potent, well-rounded teams in Europe only four years after former coach Antonio Conte dismissed their chances of ever challenging for continental honours. Allegri's nose for tactics, and how to motivate his players has been crucial. After three years of playing a 3-5-2 formation under Conte, and failing to reach the Champions League final, Allegri has reached two in just three years, having opted earlier this season for a 4-2-3-1 that, with considerable focus on individual defensive duties as well as a potent attack, has won plaudits throughout the game. Thanks to evergreen goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and a rock-solid back four bossed by Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, Juve have conceded only 26 league goals so far. Pjanic overcame a mercurial start to the season to hit some crucial free-kicks for the champions, while Juve's attack -- a three-man front line of Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala and Juan Cuadrado -- all supporting lone striker Higuain -- has scored a combined total of 43 goals. Flexible front men At the start of the campaign Allegri had a problem: making sure Higuain, freshly arrived from Napoli with a new 36-league goal Serie A record in his pocket, didn't go goal-hungry. To whet Higuain's appetite but also keep the Argentina striker within the realms of his tactical plan, Allegri reshuffled, and after a few teething problems found the magic formula. Allegri convinced Mario Mandzukic to take a role out wide on the left, a switch that, despite a comparative lack of goals, brought the best out of the Croatian striker who has won extra plaudits for some dogged defensive displays. Argentina starlet Paulo Dybala slipped into his preferred role just behind Higuain, allowing the diminutive playmaker free reign on the edge of the area to dazzle opposition defences, score goals and provide crosses into the danger zone. Colombian Juan Cuadrado was at home out wide on the right, where his pace and creativity are regular problems for opposition defences. With such support, Higuain could hardly complain. Although he remains four goals behind Serie A's leading scorer Edin Dzeko, who has hit 28, Higuain has fulfilled his wish of winning trophies in Italy. Rock solid defence Once known for the ultra-defensive 'catenaccio' system, designed primarily to stop opposing teams from scoring, Italian teams have since woken up to the fact that attacking play is crucial to success if they are to keep pace in Europe. But one of the keys to Juve's success this season was Allegri's insistence on every player performing defensive duties. Most, even Higuain -- who received flak in the past for being overweight and shirking when it came to tracking back -- was receptive to the idea. Two years after losing the Champions League final 3-1 to Barcelona, Allegri dangled the carrot of another promising European campaign in front of the players. And to a man, the Bianconeri responded, upping their defensive game by chasing lost possession and tracking back to cut down opposition teams' chances. Captain Buffon Juventus wouldn't be in their current position without long-serving goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who at 39 years old remains the bedrock, and captain of the Turin giants as they head towards a possible treble, and he heads towards an expected retirement following an eventual Italy campaign at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The Champions League title remains the only major accolade missing from the 2006 World Cup winner's list of honours, but Buffon has kept his eye on the ball no matter the opposition. Two years after being nominated for the UEFA save of the season award, when he stopped Dani Alves in the 2015 Champions League final, Buffon defied the onset of age to maintain spectacular form, earning his place on the 30-man shortlist for the Ballon D'Or, placing ninth in the final voting alongside Real Madrid centre-back Pepe. Last January Buffon was awarded the Serie A goalkeeper of the award for an 11th time. (AFP)

Five key reasons behind Juventus' sixth straight league title

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