February 23, (THEWILL) – Angel Di Maria delivered a stunning hat-trick against French side, Nantes, to propel Juventus into the UEFA Europa League Round of 16.
The Argentine scored a curler, penalty and header to lead the Bianconeri to a 3-0 win, while also forcing the red card that sent the hosts down to 10 men. Di Maria’s first brace in Europe since September 2019 gave Juventus the ideal start, while the third goal was scored in chaotic fashion.
The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw, meaning that Thursday’s fixture at the Stade de la Beaujoire was decisive. The Bianconeri were without Federico Chiesa, Arkadiusz Milik, Paul Pogba, and Fabio Miretti, while Nantes had Ignatius Ganago back from compassionate leave and Moses Simon in the starting XI.
Juve took advantage of their opportunity from the beginning, with Nicolò Fagioli winning the ball back in midfield before Di Maria unleashed an astonishing strike from distance. The outstanding performance of the Argentine continued throughout the game, as he dribbled past defenders and forced a flying save from Alban Lafont.
Nantes’ chances of a comeback were dashed when Nicolas Pallois was sent off after charging down Di Maria’s back-heel flick with his arm, leading to a penalty that the Argentine converted before his 78th minute third completed the hat-trick. Juve will now prepare to face local rivals Torino in Serie A, while Nantes host Rennes in Ligue 1.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
