Juventus began their Italian title defence with a thrilling 4-3 victory at Perugia yesterday while rivals Lazio and Inter Milan were both held to away draws.

Juve were ahead 3-0 at half time but Perugia stormed back thanks to Japanese World Cup star Hidetoshi Nakata, who scored in the 55th and 62nd minutes. Edgar Davids opened the scoring for Juve in the 23rd minute and defender Igor Tudor headed home to double the score 10 minutes later. Gianluca Pesotto made it three just before the break.

But Perugia struck back with two goals from midfielder Nakata. Juve regained control with a Daniel Fonseca goal, before Perugia won a late penalty converted by Antonio Bernardini.

Mohammed Kallon gave Cagliari a shock 19th-minute lead against Inter compounded by Roberto Muzzi adding another, 10 minutes later. Nicola Berti saved Inter's blushes with two late goals.

Lazio were humbled by lowly Piacenza who grabbed a late equaliser through Simone Inzaghi. Dejan Stankovic had scored Lazio's opener.