The Malta Independent 25 April 2024, Thursday
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Juve's derby win comes at a cost with Higuain injury

Associated Press Sunday, 18 February 2018, 17:34 Last update: about 7 years ago

Juventus' 1-0 derby win over Torino may have come at a cost with prized striker Gonzalo Higuain limping off with a left ankle injury Sunday.

Higuain's status could be a big concern for Juventus' pursuit of a seventh straight Serie A title as well as the return leg of the Champions League last 16 against Tottenham.

"Gonzalo got knocked. He should be OK in a couple of days," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri.

Higuain was left grimacing on the pitch three minutes in after making contact near the endline with Torino goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu, who broke up a Juventus chance.

After staying on for another 10 minutes, Higuain exited and was replaced by Federico Bernardeschi.

Less than 20 minutes later, Bernardeschi set up Alex Sandro's goal, dribbling past a defender then providing the cross for Sandro to tap in from close range.

Higuain scored twice when Juventus drew 2-2 with Tottenham on Tuesday. The return leg is scheduled for London on March 7.

Meanwhile, Juventus was encouraged that Paulo Dybala came on for the final 25 minutes for his first action after several weeks out injured.

"Paulo played 30 minutes at a good level," Allegri said. "I'm pleased with his and everyone else's performance. This is a good result against a well-organized Torino side."

It was Juventus' ninth straight win but the Bianconeri remained one point behind Italian leader Napoli, which beat relegation-threatened Spal 1-0

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IMMEDIATE INTENTIONS

Three days after losing 3-1 to Leipzig in the Europa League, Napoli had a strong start against Spal.

The hosts showed their intentions immediately when Lorenzo Insigne hit the post four minutes in.

Two minutes later, Allan scored following a series of short, mesmerizing passes that have characterized Napoli's play all season.

Napoli captain Marek Hamsik thought he had doubled the advantage shortly after the hour mark but his header was waved off for offside after the VAR was consulted.

Napoli has also won nine straight, a club record for a single season.

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OTHER MATCHES

Last-placed Benevento earned its third win of the season with a 3-2 win over fellow southern club Crotone.

Cheick Diabate scored the winner two minutes from the end.

Also, Bologna beat 10-man Sassuolo 2-1 with a late free kick from Erick Pulgar in a matchup of regional rivals.

Later, AC Milan was hosting Sampdoria.

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