Besart Berisha was over the moon to hear Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri had singled him out for praise after the Foxtel A-League All Stars almost toppled the reigning Serie A champions on Sunday night.
Two late goals from Juventus gave the Italians a hard-won 3-2 win over Berisha’s side.
And the Melbourne Victory striker looked sharp throughout with his link-up play and effectiveness in the box, prompting praise from the Bianconeri boss.
“We knew about Del Piero of course but (Besart) Berisha played very well and (Bernie Ibini) played very well also,” the Italian manager said after the match.
“It was a good test for Juventus. It was a great team to play against so was a very good experience for us.”
“It feels good,” the Victory striker told www.a-league.com.au when asked about the comments.
“It’s good to hear that… it makes me feel good.”
Berisha joked it may have something to do with his country’s national team boss.
“In Albania we have an Italian who coaches our national team. Maybe that’s why!”
The game signalled the end to a 10-day stint with the All Stars for the Hyundai A-League star, one that began in camp in Wollongong and ended in front of over 55,000 fans at ANZ Stadium.
It’s been an adventure that Berisha has cherished. And after playing Manchester United last year, one he hopes he can repeat for a third time next year in the blue shirt of the All Stars.
“It’s been amazing,” Berisha said.
“And like a child I’ve looked up to Del Piero. He’s such a great striker.
“This moment with him against his former club it is really a special moment.
“The main thing is we represent the A-League well. I was giving everything.
“We nearly made it [a win] this year. We got close. A bit unlucky but the main thing is we represent the A-League and Australia well.
“I hope I’m back next year. This year we were close and next year I hope maybe we win the game.”
