Tudor ‘liked’ Juventus’ courage but sees ‘room to improve’ | OneFootball

Juventus coach Igor Tudor was happy with the ‘courage’ his players showed in the Club World Cup debut, but still sees ‘room to improve.’

Juventus began their 2025 Club World Cup campaign with a convincing 5-0 win over Al Ain.

Tudor happy with Juventus approach in Club World Cup

BOLOGNA, ITALY – MAY 04: Igor Tudor, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Bologna and Juventus at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on May 04, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“Our approach is always the same. We prepared in the best way possible, now we need to recover because we put in a lot of effort. This match gives us confidence for the future, but the only game that matters is the next one,” Tudor said at a post-match press conference via Gazzetta.

“We can still improve significantly in terms of defensive positioning; we need to concede less on counterattacks, but I liked the courage we showed to go forward and score. It’s a great start that will help us move forward in the best way.

“We’re heading in the right direction; there’s always room to improve, but we’re on the right path,” Tudor continued.

“There’s a desire to grow, and over time, the pieces come together. The team is a living organism that is never the same. From the bench, I had the feeling that the boys cared and were motivated. There was great energy and a spirit of sacrifice. It seems like they get along really well with each other.”

Tudor praises Alberto Costa

ROME, ITALY – MAY 10: Alberto Costa of Juventus is challenged during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Juventus at Stadio Olimpico on May 10, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Tudor started Alberto Costa as a right-wing-back, and the Portuguese defender put in a big performance, providing two assists.

“Alberto finished the season strongly with two important matches,” Tudor concluded.

“I always like to reward those who perform well. Everyone is important, and they will be from now until the end of the tournament.”

Alberto Costa joined Juventus from Vitoria Guimaraes for nearly €14m in the January transfer window.

Juventus’ next game in the Club World Cup is against Moroccan side Wydad AC at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, on Sunday, June 22 at 12:00 LT (18:00 CEST).

Tudor has recently extended his contract with Juventus until June 2027.

The Croat had replaced Thiago Motta in March and finished the 2024-25 season with five wins, three draws, and one loss in nine Serie A matches, which were enough to secure Champions League qualification for the 2025-26 season.