Conte: Win over Cesena a just reward

Antonio Conte was satisfied with the dominance of his Juventus team in their 2-0 victory over Cesena on Sunday.

Serie A leaders Juve emerged 2-0 winners from the match in Turin, thanks to a goal from Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal’s penalty.

The margin of victory could have been greater against Cesena, who had goalkeeper Francesco Antonioli sent off with 10 minutes to go.

But Conte felt his team were justified in taking three points after dominating possession, and offering a greater threat throughout the contest.

“It was a tough game because their goalkeeper played very well and their full-backs too, and we lacked precision,” Conte said.

“But I have to say I have nothing but positives for my team, when you see we had 70 percent of ball possession against their 30 percent and 21 shots on goal by us and only one by them, it makes you realise we played our game.”

“Maybe Cesena didn’t come here with such a defensive attitude, but we gave them no other choice but to have to play defensively.”

A strong season from Marchisio has seen the midfielder likened to former Juve favourite Marco Tardelli, who helped Italy win the 1982 World Cup.

Conte sought to lower expectations of Marchisio’s contribution, but agrees the 25-year-old is beginning to play an important role.

“I don’t think it’s fair to compare Claudio to anyone, he has to write his own story,” Conte said.

“As I said at the beginning of the season, he’s the kind of good player with all the qualities to become a champion.”

“It’s up to me to get the maximum from him and it’s up to Claudio to give his all. We are on the right track, with him and with some of his teammates too.”