The Allianz Stadium in Turin is set to host a crucial Champions League playoff first leg as Juventus welcome PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday evening. This match marks a pivotal moment for both teams as they vie for a spot in the coveted Round of 16.
Juventus, under the guidance of Thiago Motta, find themselves in an unfamiliar position. Despite boasting one of the stingiest defences in the league phase, conceding just seven goals in eight matches, the Bianconeri could only manage a 20th-place finish. Their offensive output was equally uncharacteristic, netting only nine times – a stark contrast to their usual standards.
PSV Eindhoven, on the other hand, secured a more comfortable 14th place finish, showcasing a blend of attacking flair and defensive solidity. Their campaign culminated in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool on the final matchday, ending the English side’s perfect record in the competition.
Juventus have shown signs of resurgence in recent weeks. After a string of draws in Serie A, they’ve strung together consecutive victories, including a commanding 4-1 win over Empoli and a hard-fought 2-1 triumph against Como. The Old Lady will be eager to carry this momentum into their European campaign.
PSV’s domestic form has been slightly less convincing, with a recent 1-1 draw against Willem II allowing a resurgent Ajax to close the gap at the top of the Eredivisie. However, their unbeaten run extends to six matches across all competitions, and they’ve found the net in their last 11 outings.
For Juventus, all eyes will be on Randal Kolo Muani. The PSG loanee has hit the ground running in Turin, notching five goals already, including a crucial late winner against Como. His form could be pivotal in deciding this tie.
PSV will look to their talismanic captain, Luuk de Jong, to lead the line. The 34-year-old striker has already amassed 14 goals this season and his experience on the big stage could prove invaluable.
Thiago Motta has maintained Juventus’ reputation for defensive solidity while gradually implementing a more progressive style of play. Expect the Bianconeri to be disciplined without the ball but look to exploit spaces on the counter-attack.
Peter Bosz’s PSV are known for their attacking philosophy. The Dutch side will likely look to dominate possession and create chances through quick, intricate passing moves. Their high-pressing game could also pose problems for Juventus’ build-up play.
This fixture carries added significance as it marks only the second-ever major European encounter between these two storied clubs. Their previous meeting in the league phase saw Juventus emerge victorious with a 3-1 win in Turin.
Team News
Juventus are grappling with several injury concerns. Pierre Kalulu, Bremer, Juan Cabal, Arkadiusz Milik, and Andrea Cambiaso are all sidelined. However, the recent loan acquisition of Lloyd Kelly from Newcastle United provides additional defensive cover.
PSV have their own injury woes, with Adamo Nagalo joining Olivier Boscagli, Malik Tillman, Ricardo Pepi, and Richard Ledezma on the treatment table. Ryan Flamingo’s return from suspension is a timely boost for their backline.
Expected Starting XIs
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Weah, Gatti, Veiga, Savona; McKennie, Locatelli; Gonzalez, Koopmeiners, Yildiz; Kolo Muani
PSV: Benitez; Karsdorp, Flamingo, Obispo, Junior; Veerman, Schouten; Bakayoko, Til, Lang; De Jong
Match Prediction
Juventus may have turned a corner, having won their last two Serie A matches in a row, with Kolo Muani playing a huge role. His inclusion might be the difference the Bianconeri need to overcome a tricky opponent.
Prediction: Juventus 3-1 PSV
