Medhi Benatia hopes Juve can turn Atletico tie around

by Graeme Jackson

Wednesday Mar 06, 2019. 12:00

Moroccan defender Medhi Benatia has expressed his hope that Juventus can turn around their UEFA Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid.

The Italian giants, who allowed Benatia to leave for Qatar club Al-Duhail in the January transfer window, lost 2-0 at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano last month in the first leg of a last 16 tie. The Bianconeri will host the Spanish giants for the return game in Turin next midweek.

“[Juve manager Massimiliano] Allegri has done well in Italy and also in the Champions League," said the 31-year-old, who is also the captain of the Morocco national team.

“We're talking about a coach who understands football, but I don't know if he's the right one to win in Europe, although I hope he is.

“[Cristiano] Ronaldo's a machine. We talked to him a lot and he's also an exceptional human. He has incredible humility and always works to the maximum.

“Atletico Madrid are a very difficult team to face, who always try exploit the mistakes of their opponents.

“Juventus could've played better at Wanda Metropolitano, given the quality they possess, but now I'm a Juventus fan and I don't think it's over yet.

“The Bianconeri have the quality to come back. If my former teammates reach the final, I'll buy a ticket and cheer for them."