After what was billed as the first real test of the Bianconeri’s title credentials, Ciro Ferrara’s men came away from the Stadio Olimpico with all three valuable points to continue their impressive start to the campaign. Goals from debutant Martin Caceres and David Trezeguet were enough to make it three wins out of three, however the injury sustained to star man Diego in the first half will have taken the gloss off the win.

With Alessandro Del Piero, Momo Sissoko and Hasan Salihhamidzic all stricken on the treatment table, and mid-week Azzurri heroes Vincenzo Iaquinta and Fabio Cannavaro rested, the duo of Grosso and Caceres made their debuts, whilst Trezeguet was recalled for the first time this season. After clearly struggling to take control of the game in the first half, Juve were able to break the deadlock through Caceres in the 72nd minute who finished expertly with a right foot drive. The game was then put beyond Lazio in stoppage time, with David Trezeguet converting from close range after an initial cross from substitute Sebastian Giovinco who impressed throughout.

The game did not pass without a few scares for Juventus, with Gigi Buffon called into action on several occasions. As ever though, the Azzurri’s number one was in great form and produced superb saves to deny Lazio from taking the lead in the first half. However, even the reliable shot-stopper had to rely on a somewhat dubious decision in first half stoppage time. Following a goal line scramble the ball was bundled over the Juventus line, but the goal was ruled out by referee Gervasconi for an innocuous push from Julio Cruz on Nicola Legrottaglie.

With both manager and patron Giovanni Cobolli Gigli expressing their delight after the win, this Juventus side are now starting to look worth their pre-season tag as Scudetto challengers. With the additions of Grosso, Melo, Diego, Cannavaro and goal-scorer Caceres in the summer, this might just prove to be the season that the Turin giants provide a stern challenge to Inter’s crown.

Couple this with the strong Italian backbone of the side and the emergence of youngsters such as Claudio Marchisio, things look very promising for the campaign ahead. The extent of Diego’s injury will be a cause for concern. After becoming almost integral to the side in such a short space of time, it may be difficult for Juve to cope with the loss of their star trequartista.

However, the positive to come from this will possibly delight a few fans, in the hope that this will mean Giovinco may have a prolonged run in the first team and showcase his undoubted skills.

One thing is for sure, ‘la vecchia signora’ will head into their opening Champions League tie against Bordeaux on Tuesday with great confidence and will aim to continue their fine form on the European stage.