Carrera: Shakhtar Donetsk clash is a crucial test for Juventus

Oct 2, 2012 12:25:00 AM

The caretaker coach has spoken of the perils that await his side, urging them to not take the Ukrainians lightly given their recent unbeaten run and mix of flair and solidity

Massimo Carrera has warned his Juventus players that they must play at their very best when they host Shakhtar Donetsk in the group stage of the Champions League on Tuesday.

The Bianconeri have won all but two of their eight matches this season, one of which was a 2-2 comeback draw at European champions Chelsea a fortnight ago, to kick off their campaign on the continent.

And with the clash against the Ukrainians looming large, the interim boss issued a rallying cry, claiming that his side are conscious of what is needed to overcome Mircea Lucescu's troops.

"We have got to beat them and we know what we have to do," Carrera said at a press conference. "It is a crucial game, but before we start thinking about the future we have got to beat them.

"It is going to be a difficult game and we are going to have to suffer. We have to play like Juve."

Carrera then analysed Shakhtar's strengths and warned his team to anticipate a mix of Brazilian flair and defensive solidity, both of which have contributed to the side embarking on a 25-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

"They are a very strong team technically, coached by a coach who knows Italian football well," he added.

"They have plenty of Brazilians so we are going to have to be careful as they are technically strong and know how to play football.

"We know they have a strong defence. They have not lost in 25 games and deserve full respect and, I repeat, it is going to be a very difficult game to play."

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