Kolo Muani’s Stoppage-Time Strike Keeps Juventus Perfect in Europa League

Juventus recovered from an uncertain opening hour to beat Celta Vigo 2-1 at Balaídos, with Randal Kolo Muani scoring in the second minute of stoppage time to preserve Luciano Spalletti’s side’s perfect start to the Europa League campaign.

Match facts

Celta made the sharper start and exposed moments of uncertainty in Juventus’ defensive shape. Hugo Alvarez put the home side ahead in the 18th minute after Juventus failed to deal with the danger, with Celta repeatedly finding space during fast transitions.

Juventus controlled slightly more of the ball but initially found Celta’s compact defensive block difficult to unlock. Goalkeeper Vicario had little sustained work beyond making one save and could not be blamed for the opening goal, while his use of the ball helped the visitors build attacks from deep.

The three-man defence experienced a difficult first half. Federico Gatti competed fiercely on the right of the back line but had trouble tracking Swedberg’s movement, while Kelly endured a particularly testing evening through the middle. Kelly was cautioned for a tactical foul in the 54th minute before being withdrawn 16 minutes later. Pierre Kalulu, however, provided composure and recovery pace throughout, remaining on the field until the final whistle.

The contest changed in the 59th minute. Nick Woltemade timed his movement into the penalty area well and finished the equaliser, rewarding a hard-working display at centre-forward. His goal gave Juventus renewed belief, and the visitors increasingly forced Celta towards their own penalty area.

Andrea Cambiaso was Juventus’ most influential starter, offering constant width and threat from the left. He maintained his output as the game became stretched and ultimately supplied the decisive cross in the 92nd minute. Kolo Muani, introduced in the 64th minute, reacted first to turn the delivery home from close range.

Spalletti’s alterations were central to the turnaround. Francisco Conceição was replaced in the 64th minute after providing width without enough decisive end product, while another young midfielder also departed after struggling to establish himself against Celta’s energetic central unit. Kolo Muani brought direct running and pace, and another attacking replacement helped stretch the home defence during the final quarter.

Bremer’s introduction for Kelly in the 70th minute added authority to Juventus’ defending, particularly against Celta’s late direct balls. Gatti also made way at that stage as Spalletti sought fresher legs, although the replacement was booked shortly after entering and had an uneven cameo. Teun Koopmeiners, who had balanced Juventus’ midfield with disciplined passing between the lines, was rested in the 82nd minute, with the late substitute keeping possession simply as the visitors chased the result.

Sarr’s physical work in midfield helped Juventus compete for second balls and retain their 53 per cent share of possession. Weston McKennie supplied energy and made forward runs from his hybrid role, although he was unable to convert his involvement into a decisive contribution in the final third.

Celta remained a danger on the break until the end, but Juventus’ bench strength and late pressure proved decisive. The win gives Spalletti’s side six points from their opening two Europa League fixtures and leaves them at the summit of the competition’s table.