Despite the lopsided scoreline, Spalletti was quick to point out that the result was the product of sustained concentration rather than a lack of quality from the opposition. The Eredivisie side arrived in Turin with a reputation for high-intensity football, and the Juve boss was adamant that his team could not afford a single moment of complacency. By maintaining their tactical discipline, the Bianconeri were able to neutralise the threat posed by NEC’s expansive style, which Spalletti believes will cause significant problems for other teams in the competition as the group stage progresses.
“Tonight we remained focused until the end, their pace was strong and they could become dangerous,” Spalletti stated. “It’s easy to talk now after a 5-0 but with Bodo Glimt they had a great heat even though they lost. NEC will create problems for several teams because of their way of playing,” he noted.