Two European giants, Juventus and Manchester City, clash at the Allianz Stadium in the Champions League group stage. With both sides navigating inconsistent form and injury setbacks, this fixture will be crucial for their ambitions of progressing in the competition.
Juventus Recent Form
Juventus have struggled to convert draws into wins lately. While they started the Champions League campaign strongly with two wins, they’ve since drawn twice and lost once.
In Serie A, they have recorded multiple draws, including a dramatic 2-2 stalemate against Bologna where they came from two goals down. Their defensive strength remains intact, conceding just 10 goals in 15 league matches.
Injury and Team News
Juventus have seen some key players return from injury. Dusan Vlahovic is back in the squad after recovering from a thigh problem. Nicolo Savona also returned recently. However, they are still missing Nico Gonzalez, Weston McKennie, and Douglas Luiz.
Defenders Juan Cabal and Bremer remain sidelined with ACL injuries, and Andrea Cambiaso may miss out due to an ankle sprain.
Last Juventus Lineup
Here is how Juventus lined up for their last match:
Manchester City Recent Form
Manchester City are experiencing an uncharacteristic dip in form under Pep Guardiola. Their last Champions League fixture ended in a 3-3 draw against Feyenoord, where they let a three-goal lead slip.
Domestically, they managed a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace. City have only one win in their last nine matches across all competitions, and their defence has shown vulnerability, conceding seven goals in their last two European matches.
Injury and Team News
City’s injury woes persist. Phil Foden could return after missing the last match due to illness. Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji, John Stones, and Mateo Kovacic are unavailable.
Rico Lewis remains an important figure despite his suspension in domestic play. Rodri and Oscar Bobb are also long-term absentees.
Last Manchester City Lineup
Here is how Manchester City lined up for their last match:
Juventus Player To Watch
Dusan Vlahovic: The Serbian forward’s return from injury is a massive boost. His physical presence and goal-scoring ability will be key against City’s fragile defence.
Manchester City Player To Watch
Kevin De Bruyne: City’s creative engine, De Bruyne’s vision and passing range can unlock Juventus’s resolute defence. His set-piece delivery will also be crucial.
Prediction
Both sides are struggling for consistency, and with injuries impacting their squads, a tightly contested match is expected. Juventus’s solid defence and City’s recent vulnerability suggest a draw.
Our Prediction: Juventus 1-1 Manchester City
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both Teams to Score: Juventus have shown defensive resilience, but City’s attacking power can breach them. Both teams have been conceding lately.
Tip 2
Under 2.5 Goals: Given Juventus’s defensive approach and City’s form issues, this match could be low-scoring.
Tip 3
Draw: With both teams dealing with injuries and inconsistent form, a draw seems likely.
