Cambiaso opens up on Italy disappointment after key Juventus win
Juventus wing-back Nicolo Cambiaso has revealed he took the frustration of a recent international snub into a crucial Serie A victory over Genoa. The 24-year-old played a key role in a 2-0 win that kept Juventus firmly in the race for a top-five finish, before candidly discussing his difficult week with the Italian national team.
Cambiaso admitted he found the experience with Italy 'hard to live with' after being an unused substitute for both of the Azzurri's recent playoff matches against Northern Ireland and Bosnia-Herzegovina. He described the situation as a 'big blow' that left him hurt, fueling his determination to perform upon his return to club duty. According to his post-match comments, that personal disappointment was channeled directly into his performance at the Allianz Stadium.
The win against Genoa was vital for Juventus' ambitions, moving them within two points of fourth-placed Roma with just three matches remaining. Cambiaso emphasized the importance of the result, particularly after rivals Roma and Como also won, stating the team had spoken before the game about the need to apply continuous pressure. His intelligent movement and ability to cut inside from the flank were noted as key factors in breaking down a stubborn Genoa defence.
Beyond his own performance, Cambiaso was quick to praise teammate Michele Di Gregorio, who kept a clean sheet in goal. He highlighted the goalkeeper's extraordinary attitude and training ground presence, crediting him with winning a very important match for the team. This solidarity underscores a squad focusing on collective responsibility during the tense final stretch of the season.
With four teams separated by just five points in the fight for Champions League qualification, Cambiaso acknowledged the intense battle ahead. He described every point as being 'like gold', pointing to a difficult final fixture against Monza, a team that held Juventus earlier in the season. His return to form and focused mentality will be crucial for manager Massimiliano Allegri as the club seeks to secure a return to Europe's premier competition.
The player's openness about his international disappointment provides a glimpse into the personal motivations driving professionals during the season's climax. For Cambiaso, the immediate future is clearly defined: putting the Italy setback behind him to help Juventus cross the finish line in the top five, a objective that now looks increasingly within reach.
