Kolo Muani heads stoppage-time winner as Juventus beat Celta Vigo 2-1
Juventus struck in stoppage time to complete a 2-1 Europa League comeback at Celta Vigo, with Randal Kolo Muani heading the winner after Nick Woltemade had levelled the tie.
Luciano Spalletti’s side trailed at the interval in Galicia after Hugo Alvarez put Celta ahead, but Woltemade produced the response in the 58th minute. The German forward met a Teun Koopmeiners cross, which had taken a deflection on its way through, with a right-foot volley driven into the bottom corner.
It was Woltemade’s first European goal for Juventus and swung momentum firmly towards the visitors. Juventus continued to load pressure into Celta’s six-yard area in the closing stages, with Woltemade and Kolo Muani giving the home defence a difficult physical battle.
Kolo Muani eventually made that pressure count, rising to head home in added time and seal a valuable away victory for the Bianconeri.
Woltemade targets further progress
Woltemade said the timing of the winner could give Juventus a major lift. “It was an important victory, particularly because we scored so late. It matters for the group and for our confidence,” he said.
“I’m very happy with the result. I did some good things, but I know there are areas where I can improve. The goal is important for a striker’s confidence and I want to keep getting better so I can help the team more.”
The forward also praised Kolo Muani after their decisive combination in attack. “I like playing with Kolo Muani. When we are both in the box, it becomes more difficult for defenders. I’m happy for him too after his goal.”
Juventus will try to build on the win when Rennes visit on Europa League Matchday 3. Celta remain without a group-stage point and next travel to Celtic looking for their first result.
