Analysing Arturo Vidal's Performance vs. Copenhagen

Juventus received a major boost from midfielder Arturo Vidal in Wednesday's crucial Champions League tilt with FC Copenhagen as he secured a hat-trick in the 3-1 win.     

ESPN FC noted Vidal's big day on Twitter:

The Italian side controlled possession in the early stretches, allowing for a number of early chances when the Copenhagen defence broke down. Juventus was hunting for the right chance when opportunity struck from a 26th-minute penalty and resulting yellow card from Lars Jacobsen.

Juventus earned a penalty shot and sent Vidal out to take it, which he just barely slipped past Copenhagen goalkeeper Johan Wiland to give his club an early lead (GIF via @FeintZebra). 

After Copenhagen secured an equalizer early in the second half, Vidal went to work again with a flurry of goals to secure his side's victory at Juventus Stadium.

Another untimely penalty given up by Copenhagen allowed Vidal to add another, and he didn't waste the opportunity by again going left and consequentially faking out Wiland for the easy goal (GIF via @FeintZebra). 

@FeintZebra

Seemingly not content with his two easy goals, Vidal struck a third time just two minutes later. Paul Pogba threatened with a run on the left side, and crossed it over to a streaking Vidal, who headed it home to secure the final score. 

As you can see below, the 26-year-old displayed incredible touch on the attempt (GIF via @FeintZebra).

@FeintZebra

Known as a player who can get it done in the attacking or defending third, Vidal was especially aggressive on offense Wednesday. After five shots in total—four on goal—he was substituted off in the 82nd minute to an ovation from the crowd. 

As Carlos Tevez transitions into the striker slot, Vidal's ability to consistently produce offence has been crucial to Juventus' success in recent seasons. He's a huge reason why the club is coming off back-to-back Serie A championships.

Vidal features more of a knack for goalscoring than most midfielders, but his hat-trick on Wednesday was nonetheless spectacular. His only other multi-goal game this season was on Aug. 31 against Lazio.

Despite the success in their own country, the 2013-14 Champions League group stage has been one to forget for Juventus as they entered Wednesday dead last in Group B. But after Real Madrid's win over Galatasaray, Juventus moved up to second place and their hopes of advancement are very alive.