Two teams level on six points in Group F of the UEFA Champions League clash on Tuesday night, as Lille host Juventus at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy. This intriguing matchup pits the surprise package of the group against one of Europe’s traditional powerhouses in what could be a pivotal game for both sides’ knockout stage aspirations.
Lille have been the revelation of the Champions League so far this season. After losing their opening match 2-0 away to Sporting CP, Les Dogues have pulled off stunning back-to-back victories over both Madrid clubs. A 1-0 home win over reigning champions Real Madrid was followed by an even more impressive 3-1 triumph at Atletico Madrid, with Jonathan David scoring twice late on to secure a memorable comeback.
Those results have propelled Lille to second in the group on six points, level with leaders Juventus. The French side are unbeaten in eight matches across all competitions since that opening day loss in Lisbon. Their domestic form has been strong too, with a 2-0 derby win over Lens followed by a 1-1 draw against Lyon on Friday night.
Juventus started their Champions League campaign in fine style, winning their opening two fixtures against PSV Eindhoven and RB Leipzig. However, they suffered their first setback last time out with a 1-0 home defeat to Stuttgart, conceding in stoppage time after Danilo’s red card.
That loss has coincided with a slight dip in Serie A form. The Bianconeri drew 4-4 in a chaotic Derby d’Italia against Inter Milan before being held 2-2 by newly-promoted Parma. They did steady the ship somewhat with a 2-0 win over Udinese on Saturday, maintaining their unbeaten league record this season.
Jonathan David has been in scintillating form for Lille, scoring nine goals in his last eight matches including crucial strikes in the Champions League. The Canadian forward will be key to the hosts’ chances.
For Juventus, Dusan Vlahovic leads the line and will be supported by the in-form Kenan Yildiz, who scored twice off the bench against Inter. Ex-Lille winger Tim Weah could also feature against his former club.
Lille have been clinical in Europe so far, making the most of limited chances. They’ve registered just 18 shots in their three Champions League games – the second-fewest of any team. Their ability to soak up pressure and strike on the counter could be crucial against Juventus.
The visitors will likely look to control possession and territory but may be wary of Lille’s threat on the break. With defensive absentees, Juventus may need to outscore their opponents rather than rely on a clean sheet.
Team News
Lille manager Bruno Genesio has some injury concerns to contend with. Forward Remy Cabella is sidelined with a thigh problem, while Tiago Santos, Ismaily, Hakon Arnar Haraldsson, and Ethan Mbappe are all out injured. However, defender Alexsandro returns from suspension to boost the backline.
Juventus have their own defensive issues, with Danilo suspended after his red card against Stuttgart and Bremer out with a serious knee injury picked up against Leipzig. Summer signings Nico Gonzalez and Douglas Luiz are both struggling with thigh problems.
Expected Starting XIs
Lille: Chevalier; Meunier, Diakite, Alexsandro, Gudmundsson; Bouaddi, Andre; Zhegrova, Angel Gomes, Sahraoui; David
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Savona, Kalulu, Gatti, Cambiaso; Locatelli, McKennie; Conceicao, Koopmeiners, Weah; Vlahovic
Match Prediction
This is a tough match to call between two evenly-matched sides. Lille’s home form in Europe is excellent, having won eight of their last nine European matches at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy. However, Juventus have the quality to cause problems, especially with their attacking talent.
A score draw seems the most likely outcome. Lille should find the net at least once, but Juventus have the firepower to respond. An entertaining 1-1 draw could be on the cards in what promises to be a fascinating encounter.
Prediction: Lille 1-1 Juventus
