Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri wary of Monaco threat

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri

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Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri says his side have a slight advantage going into this evening’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Monaco, but is taking nothing for granted.

The Italian champions won the first leg 1-0 and travel to the Principality looking to book their place in the last four for the first time in 12 years.

Juve are 2.31 favourites to win tonight’s clash which would take them through, but Allegri knows his side are in for a tough game against Monaco, who are priced at 3.47.The draw is 3.04.

Allegri was pleased that his side prevented Monaco from scoring a crucial away goal in the first leg, but says there is still work to be done.

“The clean sheet at home gives us a slight advantage, even though it won’t be straightforward,” he told his club’s official website.

“We now know our opposition: they’re very well organised in defence and possess technique and physicality in forward areas.

“I’m optimistic, even though we know we’ll have to put in a good performance and score to reach the next round. They’re a complicated side to play against. Monaco don’t give you an inch out there.”

Juventus are priced at 11.00 to go all the way and lift the Champions League, with Monaco 90.00 outsiders.

Meanwhile, Monaco coach Leonardo Jardim says it is huge credit to his players that they have made it this far.

“We went from the worst qualified team in the fourth pot, to winning the group, to knocking out a European giant in Arsenal (in the last 16),” he said.

“Right now, you could say that Monaco’s coach is very proud of his players. We’ve shown that we don’t need to make big investments to go far in this competition.

“The club changed its strategy and the project (in the summer). They have stayed ambitious but the onus was placed more on the development of young players.”

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