Bianconere Claim First Leg Lead Over Fiorentina
Juventus Women’s First Team emerged victorious from their first leg of the Women’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Fiorentina, securing a 3-2 win at Viola Park. The match, which took place on Sunday, 16 February 2025, was a thrilling encounter that showcased the determination and skill of both sides. Goals from Mathilde Harviken, Barbara Bonansea, and Amalie Vangsgaard ensured that Massimiliano Canzi’s team left Florence with a crucial lead, setting the stage for a promising second leg.
The Match Report
Juve started the match on a strong note, taking the lead after just five minutes. The goal was a testament to the teamwork and strategic prowess of the side, as Abi Brighton’s corner kick was perfectly met by a header from Harviken, one of the team’s recent additions. The Bianconere almost doubled their advantage shortly after, but Cristiana Girelli’s effort just missed the target. Fiorentina, however, quickly responded and equalized in the tenth minute through Agnese Bonfantini, and then took the lead three minutes later with a long-range strike from Emma Faerge. Despite these setbacks, Juventus Women showed remarkable resilience. Hanna Bennison had a chance to level the score, but her shot was deflected just wide. Midway through the first half, Sofia Cantore almost found the back of the net, but her effort hit the crossbar.
Equalizing and More
Canzi’s team continued to press, and their efforts paid off in the 36th minute. Another corner kick, this time taken by Lisa Boattin, was flicked on by Cantore and turned in by Bonansea, bringing the score to 2-2. The first half concluded with Juve having the last significant opportunity, as Girelli’s attempt hit the crossbar once more. The second half saw a slightly more cautious approach from both teams, but the intensity of goal-scoring chances did not wane. Bonansea tested the Fiorentina goalkeeper early in the second half, while Pauline Peyraud-Magnin made a crucial save to deny Bonfantini’s effort from the edge of the area.
The Decisive Moment
The turning point came in the 76th minute when Juventus Women capitalized on a mistake by the Fiorentina goalkeeper. Amalie Vangsgaard, known for her relentless pressing, charged down Francesca Durante’s clearance, and the ball deflected into the net, giving Juve a 3-2 lead. This goal was a moment of brilliance and hard work, reflecting Vangsgaard’s determination and the team’s collective effort. As the match drew to a close, Peyraud-Magnin made another outstanding save, tipping Kaja Erzen’s long-range shot over the crossbar to maintain the lead. The performance of the goalkeeper was a key factor in securing the away win, and her saves were a reminder of the importance of a strong defense.
Team Lineups and Substitutions
The Fiorentina lineup included goalkeeper Francesca Durante, defenders Kaja Erzen and Anne Basslisager Pedersen, midfielders Emma Faerge and Agnese Bonfantini, and forwards Selin Severini and Giulia Catena. Substitutes included Katerina Fiskerstrand, Marta Gerogieva, and Camilla Bettineschi. Coach Sebastian de la Fuente made tactical changes throughout the game to try and turn the tide, but Juve’s defense and attacking prowess proved too strong.
On the Juventus side, Pauline Peyraud-Magnin kept the goal, while the backline was fortified by Martina Lenzini, Fridolina Kullberg, Harviken, and Krumbiegel. The midfield and attack featured Bennison, Boattin, Cantore, Girelli, and Bonansea, with key substitutions made by Canzi, including Thomas and Rosucci. The bench also had additional support ready with unused substitutes Stolen Godo, Calligaris, Capelletti, and Proulx. The substitutions were well-timed, helping to maintain the team’s energy and tactical flexibility throughout the match.
Looking Ahead
The victory at Fiorentina sets a positive tone for Juventus Women as they prepare for the second leg of the semi-final and their next match in the Serie A championship. Juventus will face Roma on Sunday, 2 March 2025, at Pozzo La Marmora in Biella. The match, which kicks off at 3:30 PM CET, is an important one for the Bianconere as they look to maintain their momentum and secure another win. Fans are eagerly anticipating the team’s performance, hopeful that the spirit and determination shown against Fiorentina will carry over.
Conclusion
The first leg of the Women’s Coppa Italia semi-final was a display of high-stakes football, with both Juventus Women and Fiorentina giving their all on the field. Juventus Women’s ability to bounce back from being behind and secure a 3-2 win speaks volumes about their character and tactical acumen. With the second leg on the horizon and a crucial Serie A match against Roma, the Bianconere are in a strong position to advance and continue their successful season. The team’s performance, particularly the contributions of Harviken, Bonansea, and Vangsgaard, as well as the stellar goalkeeping of Peyraud-Magnin, has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting continuation of their campaign.
