Locatelli Emotional as Juventus Fail: 'Felt Like Crying'

Thu, 26 Feb 2026, 16:14 WIB | By Akmal Fauzi | Source: MEDIA_INDONESIA | Sports

Juventus had to accept the bitter reality of being eliminated from the Champions League. Although they almost staged a sensational comeback with 10 players in the second leg, the Italian side ultimately fell short after conceding two goals in extra time.

Juve won 3-2 against Galatasaray in the second leg in Turin on Thursday (February 26th) WIB, but lost 5-7 on aggregate.

Juventus’ chances were slim from the start. A heavy 2-5 defeat in Istanbul in the first leg meant they needed a miracle to qualify for the round of 16.

In the second leg in Turin, Juve played with great determination. Goals from Manuel Locatelli, Federico Gatti, and Weston McKennie forced the game into extra time amidst the roaring support of the home crowd.

Hopes briefly soared, but goals from Victor Osimhen and Baris Yilmaz ensured Galatasaray advanced to the next round. Juventus captain, Locatelli, could not hide his disappointment.

“I felt like I wanted to cry,” said Locatelli.

“All I know is that we put our souls into the game. We gave everything,” he added.

Despite being eliminated, Juventus still received applause from their supporters. The performance was considered a valuable asset in securing a ticket to the Champions League next season.

Currently, Juventus is in fifth place in Serie A, four points behind AS Roma in fourth place. This weekend, they will travel to the capital to face Roma in a crucial match.

(AFP/P-4)

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