Juventus survive AZ’s late response to take three points in Alkmaar

Koopmeiners gave Juventus control of the match

The midfielder found space outside the most crowded part of the penalty area and made the opening count. His goal allowed Juventus to manage the ball with more patience and made AZ take greater risks when pressing.

The visitors did not try to force every attack. They kept enough players behind the ball, moved AZ from side to side and waited for a clearer route into the final third.

Kolo Muani created the margin Juventus needed

The second goal came at a moment when AZ still believed one successful attack could change the game. Kolo Muani’s finish increased the pressure on the hosts and gave Juventus room to defend a little deeper.

AZ continued to send players forward and eventually reduced the deficit through Meerdink. The late goal changed the final minutes, but it arrived too late for the Dutch side to complete the recovery.

A narrow win still showed useful balance

The match took place on 5 November in the fourth round of the Europa League league phase. Juventus combined two different scoring threats and avoided losing its structure after moving ahead.

The final phase also offered a warning. Juventus allowed the contest to become tense after the 2-1 goal and had less control than before. Closing those moments more calmly will matter against opponents with stronger finishing.