Spalletti Praises Zhegrova and Jonathan David After Juventus Defeated Pisa 2-0

JAKARTA - Juventus coach Luciano Spaletti praised the role of Edon Zhegrova and Jonathan David, who he considered to be the key to a 2-0 victory over hosts Pisa in the 2025/2026 Italian League at the Romeo Anconetani Stadium, Sunday morning WIB, December 22.

"Zhegrova and David did their job well when they entered the field. They increased the intensity of our attack," Spaletti said, quoted from the official Juventus website via Antara, Sunday, December 28.

In the match, both players entered the second half. Jonathan David was first played in the 60th minute to replace Lois Openda. One minute later, Edon Zhegrova entered to replace Manuel Locatelli.

The entry of David and Zhegrova changed the tempo of Juventus' game. After struggling to dismantle Pisa's defense throughout the first half to the first 15 minutes of the second half, Juventus finally broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute through Pierre Kalulu's goal.

Juventus' second goal came in the second half of extra time. Kenan Yildiz recorded his name on the scoreboard in the 90th minute + 2 after taking advantage of a mature pass from Jonathan David.

Spaletti admitted that Juventus's first-half performance was too slow. He assessed that the presence of David and Zhegrova made the ball flow faster and more aggressive.

"In the second half we performed better and more creatively. This is another victory that gives us enthusiasm and confidence in the potential we have," said Spaletti.

Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu also admitted his team had difficulties when facing Pisa who performed aggressively in front of their own supporters.

Therefore, Kalulu felt relieved to be able to score the opening goal which made Juventus' game more free.

"It was an important goal. However, we still have to improve a lot. We don't pay too much attention to the standings. We only think about how to grow day by day," said Kalulu.

This victory brings Juventus to third place in the Italian League standings with 32 points from 17 matches.

Meanwhile, Pisa is further down in the relegation zone. They are now in 19th place with 11 points from 17 matches and have only won one victory this season.