Spugna: “An even encounter that will come down to fine details”

The match kicks off at Salerno's Stadio Arechi at 16:30 CEST on Sunday 4 June 2023.

Here's what the Giallorosse boss had to say...

What's it been like preparing for this final after winning the Scudetto? How hard has it been to put to one side the celebratory mood?  

“I haven't needed to do anything special. We celebrated as it was right to celebrate but then we got back down to work. The girls have been brilliant in finding the right focus.

“We didn't need to recreate anything. The girls are very mature and our European experience has helped improve our mentality.”

How different will this final be to the league match? Do you think it can be the start of a period of success for Roma?

“It's not about starting or ending a period. It's a one-off match, so it's different to Serie A. In games like this you start on an even footing. It's two great teams facing off – the two teams who have dominated this season. It's always tricky against Juventus.

“I hope it will be a great match to watch, as that's important too, but it's going to be very difficult.”

What's the secret to winning a match like this?

“The secret is to produce a great performance, but in one-off encounters it often comes down to fine details. Take last year's final, for example: for 70 minutes we were superb and then one moment changed everything.

“That can happen. We have to try to take control of the game and we're certainly capable of that, then we'll see how it pans out and if things go our way. Hopefully it will be a good game between two teams with excellent players who can win matches in an instant.”

Do you think the substitutes could be decisive?

“Absolutely. With five subs available, you can use the whole squad. That's the way it should be, especially as it could go beyond 90 minutes, as the Super Cup did.

“Those who don't start can definitely have a big part to play later. The girls know that. Five substitutes can change everything. Five players is half a team.”

Do you have any selection doubts for tomorrow?

“I don't have any doubts. I can't anymore. But all the girls are ready – as I said, you play these games with the whole squad, regardless of who starts. Everyone can be decisive.”

Do you have an opinion on the TV rights for the Women's World Cup?

“The women's game certainly deserves better. I hope the matches will be shown. It's a big event. A World Cup is a World Cup. It should be shown.

“It can help get more people interested in women's football – more young girls. They have to find a solution and I think they will. We have various international players here. I think showing the tournament is essential.”

Has it been hard to prepare for this final mentally? What are the dangers?

“When you have players like ours, we don't need to do much to prepare mentally for games. They do it themselves.

“The dangers are that Juventus have fantastic players and we have to pay attention to every little detail as that's what makes the difference. We'll try to produce our best performance possible.

“It's been a long, hard season for both teams but tomorrow there'll be players on the pitch capable of producing a spectacle.”