Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has defended his players following Tuesday night’s 4-0 defeat to reigning champions Chelsea.

Allegri’s men were blown away by Chelsea , who dominated the game from start to finish

“I think the first half was good. After the break, they continued their press, while we were a bit too weak on the second and third goals,” coach Max Allegri told Sky Italia.

“We allowed a few too many corners, where they are strong physically. We had a few situations where we could’ve done better. It’s disappointing to concede four goals, but the objective was achieved and now we must think about Saturday’s game with Atalanta.

“There were moments when we gave the ball away too cheaply by trying to make vertical passes too quickly rather than keeping the ball. We do that often and need to work on that, because you can’t do it against the reigning champions of Europe.

“The team was by no means bad in the first half. After the break, we lost confidence after the errors for the second and third goals.”

Allegri, however, added: “In any case, we have qualified with two games to spare and can now focus on the next match. Today I congratulated the lads on reaching the Champions League Round of 16.

“It’s not as if after beating Lazio we have become the best team in Europe. We have limitations, there’s no denying it, and we will work on them to improve.”