Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon has emphasized the need to respect the Bianconeri’s Champions League opponents while praising the work of Roma and Napoli.
The veteran keeper was asked about the recent Champions League draw along with this weekends title-clash against 2nd-placed AS Roma.
“We don’t say we were lucky, because it’s an arrogant thing to say which conveys little respect for the opponent,” Buffon told Mediaset.
“It’s a good draw though, because it could have been worse. Porto still have a dangerous team, they eliminated Roma who are fighting for the Scudetto with us, and therefore they’re a good side.
“They’re a growing club with lots of experience and players who are used to playing at a certain level.
“So we respect the Portuguese, and we have to work to confirm the odds.
“I’m very happy with the way we dealt with the past two games, for our spirit and approach. What I was interested in was seeing a team which is alive, the rest comes down to technical choices.
“We have a good Coach who deepens our understanding and makes us better in these aspects.”
Buffon also spoke with Sky Sports and discussed this seasons title-race and the improvements made by Roma and Napol.
“Roma and Napoli, along with Juve, are the teams which have brought some very nice sporting duels in recent years,” Gigi told Sky.
“That means that the progress of these teams is significant, and I’m talking about Roma and Napoli, their projects are proving to be successful, or at least bringing good results.
“That’s why both teams have consistently been in second or third place.
“So for me it’s not a surprise, and indeed it’s a surprise to me whenever Roma slip-up or are stopped; because they’re a team who for many years have been very strong, very competitive.
“They have a great Coach, great players, a lot of experience and they don’t lack anything to try and win the Scudetto.”
