18 October 2022
The Champions League group stages kick off on Wednesday at 18:45 CEST in Switzerland, the same country as last season's first ever group stage encounter, but different opponents.
This year it is Zurich that provides the opposition, last year it was Servette.
THE STARTING XI
The opening group fixture arrived in the middle of a hectic period, just like this campaign.
Joe Montemurro's starting line-up read: Peyraud-Magnin in goal; a defence made up of Lundorf, Lenzini, Salvai and Boattin; in midfield, Rosucci, Zamanian and Caruso; in attack a front three of Bonfantini, Staskova and Hurtig.
SHOWING PROMISE
Champions League tension? If there was any, the players transformed it into adrenaline. The Bianconere started strongly, producing chance after chance.
They could have taken an early lead, when Agnese Bonfantini was fouled in the area. However, Andrea Staskova's penalty was saved. The goal was on its way, though.
WHAT A FINISH!
On 36 minutes the Swiss defence was caught out by a Lisa Boattin pass which found Arianna Caruso in the area. With exceptional technique, the midfielder volleyed the ball high into the net. What a way to start an incredible adventure!
DOUBLING THE LEAD
In the second half Juve pushed on for a second. Lina Hurtig was the one to put the game on ice after being set up by Staskova.
THE ICING ON THE CAKE
The gap was extended with the killer third goal. Putting the result beyind doubt was Valentina Cernoia. On the pitch no more than a couple of minutes, the midfielder added her contribution to send Juve back to Turin with three goals and three points.
