In a highly anticipated Champions League encounter, Juventus will host Manchester City at the Allianz Stadium in Turin on Wednesday evening. Both teams find themselves in unfamiliar territory, struggling to meet expectations in their respective domestic leagues and European campaigns.
Juventus, under the guidance of new manager Thiago Motta, have shown resilience but lack the killer instinct to convert draws into victories. The Bianconeri remain unbeaten in Serie A after 15 matches, but their record of 19 draws since the start of the year has hindered their title aspirations. In the Champions League, Juve started strong with two wins but have since managed only two points from their last three games.
Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, are experiencing their worst run of form under Pep Guardiola. The Citizens have won just one of their last nine games across all competitions, including a shocking 3-3 draw with Feyenoord where they squandered a three-goal lead in the final 20 minutes. Their Champions League campaign has been equally disappointing, with only eight points from five matches, leaving them precariously placed in the standings.
The history between these two clubs favors Juventus. After losing their first encounter in 1976, the Italian giants have remained unbeaten in their last five matches against City, winning three and drawing two. This will be the first time the teams meet under Guardiola’s reign at City.
Thiago Motta is likely to set up Juventus in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on defensive solidity while looking to exploit City’s vulnerabilities on the counter-attack. The return of Vlahovic provides a significant boost to their attacking options.
Pep Guardiola may opt for a more conservative approach given City’s recent defensive frailties. Expect a 4-3-3 formation with an emphasis on controlling possession and creating chances for Erling Haaland up front.
For Juventus, all eyes will be on Dusan Vlahovic as he returns to lead the line. Teun Koopmeiners’ recent form in midfield could also be crucial in dictating the tempo of the game.
Manchester City will look to Kevin De Bruyne to orchestrate their attacks, while Erling Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess will be vital in breaking down Juve’s stubborn defence.
Team News
Juventus have received a boost with the return of star striker Dusan Vlahovic and defender Nicolo Savona from injury. However, they still have several key players sidelined, including Nico Gonzalez, Weston McKennie, and long-term absentees Juan Cabal and Bremer.
Manchester City’s injury woes continue, with Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji, John Stones, and Mateo Kovacic all unavailable. Phil Foden may return after missing the weekend’s match due to illness. Rico Lewis, despite facing a domestic suspension, is eligible to play in this crucial European fixture.
Expected Starting XIs
Juventus: Perin; Savona, Kalulu, Gatti, Danilo; Locatelli, Thuram; Conceicao, Koopmeiners, Weah; Vlahovic
Man City: Ortega; Walker, Dias, Gvardiol, Lewis; Gundogan; Savinho, De Bruyne, Silva, Nunes; Haaland
Match Prediction
Given both teams’ recent form and the historical context of their matchups, this game is likely to be a closely contested affair. Juventus’ strong home record in Europe will be tested against a City side desperate to regain their winning touch.
The match could end in a 1-1 draw, with both teams cautious not to lose ground in the tight Champions League group standings. Juventus’ defensive prowess may frustrate City’s attack, but the English champions have enough quality to avoid defeat.
Prediction: Juventus 1 – 1 Man City
