Juventus secured a vital 2-1 away win over AZ Alkmaar on Thursday night to strengthen their position in the UEFA Europa League.

The Italian giants made a flying start, with Teun Koopmeiners opening the scoring in the 19th minute after a brilliant attacking move involving Randal Kolo Muani.

Kolo Muani doubled Juventus’ advantage in the 37th minute, finishing confidently after combining with Nick Woltemade to give Luciano Spalletti’s side a comfortable 2-0 halftime lead.

AZ Alkmaar responded late in the second half, with Mexx Meerdink reducing the deficit in the 88th minute following an assist from Elijah Dijkstra.

Despite a late push from the Dutch side, Juventus held on to claim all three points.

The victory took Juventus to 10 points from four matches, keeping them firmly in contention for automatic qualification to the Europa League knockout stages.

The defeat also ended AZ Alkmaar’s impressive 17-match unbeaten home run in European competitions.