Aston Villa face Juventus in a pivotal UEFA Champions League clash at Villa Park this week. Both teams are battling for supremacy in Group B, with Aston Villa seeking to maintain their strong home record and Juventus determined to secure their place in the knockout stages.
Aston Villa Recent Form
Aston Villa have impressed in their inaugural Champions League campaign, securing wins against Young Boys, Bayern Munich, and Bologna.
However, recent form has been shaky, with losses in Europe and the Premier League. Their last domestic outing ended in a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace, where they showed resilience to come back from behind but also defensive vulnerabilities, especially on the counter attack.
Juventus Recent Form
Juventus have shown solid form across competitions, boasting an unbeaten Serie A record and a defensive resilience that sees them leading Italy's clean sheet tally.
However, in Europe, their form has dipped slightly, with a narrow loss to Stuttgart and a draw with AC Milan highlighting their struggle for consistency.
Injury and Team News
Aston Villa: Jacob Ramsey (hamstring), Amadou Onana (foot), and Boubacar Kamara are set to miss this fixture. Defensive options are also stretched with Ezri Konsa likely unavailable. Ollie Watkins is expected to lead the line after his crucial performance against Crystal Palace.
Juventus: Dusan Vlahovic is doubtful with a thigh problem, while Arkadiusz Milik remains out. Defensive duo Bremer and Juan Cabal are sidelined with ACL injuries, and Nico Gonzalez's absence leaves Thiago Motta short of attacking options.
Last Aston Villa Lineup
Last Juventus Lineup
Aston Villa Player to Watch
Ollie Watkins – The striker has been pivotal in Villa’s attacking setup, with his ability to press high and deliver under pressure. His form at Villa Park in Europe makes him a key figure.
Juventus Player to Watch
Manuel Locatelli – The Italian midfielder’s control in the middle of the park will be crucial, especially given Juventus' injuries. His defensive and playmaking skills will dictate the game’s tempo.
Prediction
Aston Villa's strong home form contrasts with Juventus' struggles on English soil. However, with their recent domestic form dipping, Villa might find Juventus' defensive structure tough to break. Predicted Score: Aston Villa 0-1 Juventus
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Juventus to win
Juventus' experience in handling high-stakes European matches gives them an edge, especially against a Villa side struggling for consistency.
Tip 2
Under 2.5 goals
Both teams boast strong defensive setups, and this is likely to be a low-scoring affair.
Tip 3
Ollie Watkins to score anytime
The Villa striker has been clinical at home in Europe and could capitalise on set-piece opportunities.
