Juventus forward Gonzalo Higuain said Dani Alves had provided a "beautiful" assist for the first of his two goals in the 2-0 Champions League win at Monaco on Wednesday. Come the big moment, the Argentine delivered for the visitors, rounding off a stunning team move with a clinical finish, and the way he celebrated the goal not only delighted Juventus fans but also demonstrated the motivation he clearly still has to shine when it matters most.
Juventus were huge in all areas against a Monaco side who have lit up Europe this season with their brand of attacking football.
The tactic worked brilliantly, as the free-scoring Principality outfit were comfortably kept at bay in what was an eighth clean sheet for the Italians in this season's competition.
Leonardo Jardim's men had made a bright start to the match, Mbappe twice being denied by Gianluigi Buffon prior to Higuain's opener.
In fact, it was the first time high-flying Monaco, which put six goals past Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund in their respective Champions League ties, have been held off the scoreboard at home in all competitions since November 2015.
The difference in composure was emphatically highlighted on the second goal.
"I'm delighted with the goals but this isn't over yet - Monaco are a strong side".
Buffon's low stop from 18-year-old Mbappe inside 10 minutes illustrated the narrative this fixture threw up as experience met youthful exuberance.
Given the form they had been in, it was unusual to see Mbappé and Falcao spurn a couple of presentable chances apiece.
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Higuain scored a goal in each half on Wednesday, doubling his tally from 24 previous matches in the knockout stages.
Juve could win Serie A this weekend as they chase a treble, having already booked their place in the Italian Cup final. "I knew I just had to stay calm and keep working hard".
They will now need something very special next week if they are to make it to a first Champions League final since 2004.
Juventus doubled their lead in the 59th minute, when Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko was dispossesed by Paulo Dybala.
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Paulo Dybala was involved initially before Dani Alves, now almost 34, surged into the box, holding off Kamil Glik and cutting the ball back for Higuain to sweep home. "We concede chances but when they come we have Gigi".
Five goals is Higuain's best ever goalscoring season in the Champions League.
Juventus is now riding a league record run of 33 straight victories at home, but a draw would also be enough if Roma loses at Milan.
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