Juventus cruise, Fiorentina stun Udinese

Serie A champions Juventus opened with a comfortable 2-0 victory against Parma FC, while ACF Fiorentina staged a spirited second-half comeback to overcome Udinese Calcio 2-1.

Parma started with optimism and contained the hosts by virtue of a stubborn reaguard. Their resistance slackened after 33 minutes when Stephan Lichtsteiner was hauled down inside the area. Arturo Vidal passed up the chance to score from the spot, though, firing straight at Antonio Mirante. Not to be denied, Juventus took the lead nine minutes after the restart when Lichtsteiner concluded a sweeping team move with a simple tap-in. Andrea Pirlo resumed where he left off last season to double their advantage, sending a deft free-kick centimetres over the line.

Udinese rested several first-time players with an eye on Tuesday's UEFA Champions League play-off return leg against SC Braga. There was no lack of cohesion, however, as new recruit Maicosuel steered them in front. Fiorentina emerged after the break with renewed promise and clawed their way back into contention courtesy of Stevan Jovetić's defected effort. Parity felt like paradise, but there was better to come when Jovetić completed the comeback in added time.