When Yang Yang began warming up on the sideline, preparing to come on, Allegri also issued his instructions.
Douglas Costa, who had been sitting on the bench, went out to warm up as well.
This was a substitution that matched spearpoint against shield. Once Yang Yang came on, Juventus's greatest threat would still be on defense, yet Allegri had clearly made his choice. He believed improving the attack was more important than strengthening the defense.
Against Ajax in this state, there was no way they could hold them off!
Rather than that, they might as well adjust their attack, striving to score a few more goals.
After all, this was the away leg of the first match. There was still a second leg at home, so Juventus still had room to retreat.
As for why it was Douglas Costa instead of Dybala, the reason was simple: Juventus lacked a winger.
A winger who could carry the ball forward alone, draw Cristiano Ronaldo's markers away, and deliver ammunition.
In that regard, Douglas Costa was more suitable than Dybala, and the Brazilian's individual ability was extremely strong as well.
As he watched Douglas Costa run out to warm up, Allegri's gaze returned to the pitch—and he suddenly broke into a cold sweat at the situation unfolding there.
Ajax had once again entered Juventus's penalty area. Frenkie de Jong had sent a long ball from deep, trying to find Van de Beek directly. Bonucci and Rugani's attention had both been drawn away by Jović. If Van de Beek got to the ball first, it would be dangerous.
Fortunately, at the crucial moment, Matuidi got there before Van de Beek and cleared the ball with a header.
The French veteran might have aged, but he was rich in experience and could be relied upon