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TURIN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 26:  Cristiano Ronaldo of Juventus FC is challenged by Adam Nagy (R) of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Juventus and Bologna FC at Allianz Stadium on September 26, 2018 in Turin, Italy.  (Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 26: Cristiano Ronaldo of Juventus FC is challenged by Adam Nagy (R) of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Juventus and Bologna FC at Allianz Stadium on September 26, 2018 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images)Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images

Cristiano Ronaldo Picks Up an Assist as Juventus Beat Bologna in Serie A

James DudkoSep 26, 2018

Cristiano Ronaldo assisted Juventus' second goal in a 2-0 win over Bologna at Turin's Allianz Stadium in Serie A on Wednesday.

Ronaldo crossed for Blaise Matuidi to tap in from close range after Paulo Dybala had given the Bianconeri an early lead. The result means the champions have won six league games out of six to start the season.

Dybala is Getting Better Alongside Ronaldo

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One thing Ronaldo's presence will do is improve every member of the Juventus attack. It's already proving so for Paulo Dybala, who opened the scoring after 11 minutes.

The Argentina international turned in from close range after taking advantage of the space Ronaldo's presence creates. Defenders can't be blamed for making the prolific No. 7 their focus, but such attention means Dybala has more room to inflict damage.

He's also helped by being played further forward:

Ronaldo's fondness for starting on the left and working into central areas from the flank means there's room in the middle for a player like Dybala. The latter is a good complement to Ronaldo because his experience as an attacking midfielder means he knows when to drop off the front and out of the way of Ronaldo's runs.

Seamless movement and quality technique make this burgeoning partnership one to fear:

Both kept the Bologna defence guessing and chasing shadows. Expect this dynamic double act to get even better the more they work together.

Ronaldo's Creativity Will be just as Important as His Goals

Teeing up Matuidi continued Ronaldo's fast start to life with the Bianconeri:

It also showcased the often overlooked creativity the 33-year-old can bring to influence any game. Ronaldo's vision was apparent on a number of occasions against Bologna.

The Portuguese powerhouse also manufactured chances for Rodrigo Bentancur, Dybala and Emre Can. His passes between the lines were quick, decisive and perfectly weighted.

Creating for others isn't a quality usually associated with Ronaldo. A relentless pursuit of goals is part of what's made him one of the game's true greats.

However, Juve will come to appreciate the moments Ronaldo turns provider, particularly with talented attackers like Dybala and Juan Cuadrado around him.

What's Next?

Juve will face a tougher challenge when they host last season's runners-up Napoli on Saturday. Bologna will have to wait until Sunday to attempt to beat Udinese at home.

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