Salvai Shines with Two Goals as Juventus Tops Benfica 2-1
UPDATE: Juventus defender Cecilia Salvai delivered a stunning performance, scoring twice to lead her team to a 2-1 victory over Benfica in the opening match of the revamped Women’s Champions League on October 17, 2023. This thrilling encounter not only marked Salvai’s 10th anniversary since her debut in the competition but also showcased her remarkable comeback after Benfica initially took the lead.
Benfica’s Lucia Alves opened the scoring just six minutes into the match with a powerful close-range strike, setting the stage for a dramatic clash. However, Juventus quickly regrouped, thanks to a stellar performance from Barbara Bonansea, who was instrumental in turning the tide. In the 22nd minute, Bonansea skillfully maneuvered through the defense, delivering a pinpoint cross for Salvai to head home, marking her first goal in the competition.
With the match approaching its final moments, Juventus remained relentless. After numerous attempts to take the lead, including a disallowed goal for offside, Salvai clinched the victory in the 86th minute. Following a corner kick, she expertly volleyed the ball into the back of the net, securing a dramatic comeback for the Bianconere.
The new format of the Women’s Champions League mirrors the men’s transition to a league-based system, adding excitement and intensity to the tournament. The 18-team league phase runs until December, with the top four teams advancing directly to the quarterfinals and those ranked fifth to twelfth entering a knockout playoff.
As the competition heats up, fans are eagerly awaiting the next matches, including defending champions Arsenal facing off against eight-time winners Lyon, and Barcelona hosting Bayern Munich. Juventus’ thrilling victory has set a high bar for the tournament, making it clear that this season promises to be fiercely competitive.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Women’s Champions League unfolds, and share this exhilarating start to the season with fellow soccer enthusiasts!
