JUVENTUS SEASON 2025-2026

[Socrates 9433]

Will Juventus recover Yildiz & Kelly for Champions League clash?

 

 

 

Luciano Spalletti began his Juventus tenure with a 2-1 victory in Cremona, but he had to do it without Kenan Yildiz and Lloyd Kelly. ............

 

So will either player pull off a swift recovery and make himself available for Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Sporting CP? ............

 

The absence of Yildiz was mostly precautionary.

 

The 20-year-old isn’t injured, but has been suffering from discomfort in his left knee due to patellar tendinopathy. Therefore, Spalletti and his technical staff opted to rest him ahead of the crucial European encounter.

 

Therefore, Yildiz is expected to rejoin the matchday squad, and he could well be in the starting lineup as usual. ............

 

While the source offered reassuring updates on Yildiz, Kelly’s condition is slightly more serious. The former Bournemouth and Newcastle man is struggling with back pain, and he will have to be assessed on a daily basis.

 

Therefore, it remains to be seen whether the 27-year-old will be able to recover in time. If he doesn’t, Spalletti might have to extend Koopmeiners’ experiment at the back, or entrust Daniele Rugani with a starting role alongside Pierre Kalulu and Federico Gatti. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/will-juventus-recover-yildiz-kelly-for-champions-league-clash/

[Socrates 9433]

Preview: Juventus vs Sporting Lisbon - prediction, team news, lineups

 

 

Still seeking their first Champions League win of the season, Italian giants Juventus will host Portuguese champions Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday.

 

While Juve have picked up just one point - amid a crisis that prompted change in the dugout - Sporting are within touching distance of the all-important top eight after posting two wins from three games so far. 

 

Match preview

Following two dramatic draws - 4-4 against Borussia Dortmund and 2-2 versus Villarreal - Juventus were faced with perhaps the ultimate test last time out in the Champions League, as they visited the Bernabeu.

 

Despite putting up a decent fight, the Bianconeri were still beaten by Real Madrid, prolonging an awful run of form. After eight games without a win across all competitions, Italy’s most successful club soon parted company with Igor Tudor, eager to halt their decline.

 

Under caretaker coach Massimo Brambilla, Juve finally ended their long wait for a win by beating Udinese 3-1 - a result that preceded the arrival of their vastly experienced new boss.

 

Former Napoli and Italy coach Luciano Spalletti was handed an initial contract until the end of the season, and he took charge of Saturday's Serie A clash with Cremonese, which marked the club's 128th birthday.

 

There was a perfect start to Spalletti's reign, as Filip Kostic scored within two minutes of kickoff, before Andrea Cambiaso added a second soon after the hour mark; albeit Jamie Vardy's late response made for a nervy ending.

 

Victory kept Juventus in touch with the top four, but they must now switch attention to kick-starting an ailing continental campaign.

 

Dating back to last season, Juve have won only two of their last 11 Champions League contests - though they do have a positive record against this week's opponents.

 

Unbeaten in four games against Sporting to date, the Bianconeri have won both meetings in Turin; most recently eliminating the Portuguese side in the 2023 Europa League quarter-finals. ............

 

Juventus Champions League form:

D D L

 

Juventus form (all competitions):

D L L L W W

 

Sporting Lisbon Champions League form:

W L W

 

Sporting Lisbon form (all competitions):

D W W W W W

 

Team News

Spalletti surprisingly kept Tudor's trademark three-man defence on Saturday - albeit a more fluid version - rather than switching to his favoured 4-3-3 formation, so Juventus could name a similiar XI to that which started in Cremona.

 

South American defensive duo Bremer and Juan Cabal are still sidelined by injury, but Kenan Yildiz (knee) and Lloyd Kelly (muscular) could be available after missing out at the weekend.

 

Juve's front line has chopped and changed this season, but Dusan Vlahovic started the last two games alongside Lois Openda, with Jonathan David falling out of favour. 

 

To date, Vlahovic has recorded 11 goal involvements from 19 Champions League appearances, while Sporting star Pedro Goncalves has played a part in nine goals from 16 - the most of any player in the club's history. ............

 

Juventus possible starting lineup:

Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Rugani, Gatti; Cambiaso, Thuram, Locatelli, Koopmeiners, Kostic; Openda, Vlahovic

 

Sporting Lisbon possible starting lineup:

Silva; Vagiannidis, Diomande, Inacio, Araujo; Hjulmand, Morita; Quenda, Trincao, Goncalves; Suarez

 

We say: Juventus 2-1 Sporting Lisbon

Buoyed by the arrival of a new coach, Juventus can post three wins on the spin while getting off the mark in this season's Champions League.

 

Sporting have had a far more stable campaign, but they rarely travel well - their tradition of losing on Italian turf will go on.

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Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/champions-league/preview/juventus-vs-sporting-lisbon-prediction-team-news-lineups_584930.html

[Socrates 9433]

Major boost for Spalletti as key Juventus star rejoins group training

 

 

Sunday’s training session at Continassa bore good news for Juventus, as Kenan Yildiz returned to the fold.

 

The Bianconeri are back from Lombardia with three important points in the bag after beating Cremonese by two goals to one on Luciano Spalletti’s debut. ............

 

Spalletti certainly had no time to soak it all in, as a vital Champions League encounter awaits him on Tuesday night. Juventus will host Sporting CP at the Allianz Stadium in a must-win match, as they have only collected two points from their first three European matches this season.

 

Therefore, the Serie A giants resumed training as early as Sunday, even though the players who started on Saturday were allowed to rest.

 

Sunday’s training session witnessed the return of Yildiz, who trained regularly alongside his teammates.

 

This is certainly a major relief for Spalletti and his technical staff, as they’ll be able to count on the Turkish attacker for the first time, having missed his services against Cremonese. ............

 

After rejoining group training, Yildiz should be fit enough to start in midweek, but it remains to be seen in which position Spalletti will field him, and whether his return will prompt a change in the formation. ............

 

On a related note, the source reveals that Kelly underwent personalised training on Sunday, which is a concerning indication since we’re only two away from the contest against Sporting.

 

It remains to be seen whether the Englishman will recover from his back problem in time, and who would replace him if he doesn’t. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/boost-spalletti-kenan-yildiz-juventus-training/

[Socrates 9433]

Juventus probable lineup vs Sporting: Yildiz is back, Thuram to be rested?

 

 

New Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti will make a few tweaks to his starting lineup ahead of Thursday’s Champions League contest against Sporting CP.

 

The Bianconeri have yet to taste victory in Europe this season. They settled for draws against Borussia Dortmund and Villarreal in the first two matchdays, before suffering defeat when hosted by Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.

 

Therefore, anything less than three points at the expense of the Portuguese giants would be considered a failure. ............

 

The manager also received good news from the training ground, with Kenan Yildiz rejoining his teammates in training after being rested on the weekend. ............

 

Spalletti has no doubts about fielding the young Turk as a starter.

 

Yildiz could well join Loic Openda in the supporting roles for Dusan Vlahovic, who will spearhead the attack once more. ............

 

Khephren Thuram, who has been struggling with physical discomfort in recent weeks, could be dropped from the lineup.

 

In this case, Weston McKennie will operate as a central midfielder alongside Manuel Locatelli. The American had played in a more advanced role against Cremonese. ............

 

Juventus Probable lineup (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, McKennie, Locatelli, Kostic; Openda, Yildiz; Vlahovic.

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-probable-lineup-vs-sporting-yildiz-is-back-thuram-to-be-rested/

[Socrates 9433]

Spalletti: ‘Fighting to win is important for Juventus, Vlahovic delighted to stay’

 

 

Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti believes that Juventus are in for a tough test against Sporting CP in the Champions League, says that ‘fighting to win’ is more important than winning itself, and adds that Dusan Vlahovic ‘would be delighted’ to stay on with the Bianconeri beyond his current contract. ............

 

Spalletti got his Juventus tenure off to a winning start with a 2-1 victory against Cremonese in Serie A over the weekend, and is now tasked with guiding Juve to their first Champions League victory of the season. The Old Lady have two points from their first three matches in the competition so far this season. ............

 

“It’s a very difficult game, because they know how to play football well, and have a very precise way of doing it. They make good substitutions. They also have a lot of really good quality in the final third,” Spalletti said of Sporting CP. ............

 

“Fighting to win (is what’s important), not winning itself.” ............

 

“I’m always willing to do my best, and until the maths prohibits us, we have to fight to win everything.” ............

 

“The victory in Cremona was thanks to the players, I didn’t have much of a say in it. But I thank you for all the nice things you’ve said.

 

“They were attentive throughout the game. I like seeing the look in the eyes that they’re giving me. It tells me about their desire and the will to do well. It’s a good group from a technical and personal point of view.” ............

 

“We’re lucky to play in the Champions League, it’s the pinnacle of football. To do well in this competition, we have to have our own idea of what it means to be a team, and we have to protect that idea with a lot of personality.

 

“We have to have courage to do what we want to do. We can’t have any excuses, this is football. We have to go out there and choose to do certain things.” ............

 

“They’re very disciplined, we didn’t need to bring any order. The best rule is common sense. Rules have always been there at Juventus. I’m trying to get to know the team better and give them some directions. The players have often taught me. The important thing is to have desire and to use time well.” ............

 

“You’ve spoken about two really important players for our team, Cambiaso is a very modern footballer. He’s a strong player who gives you lots of different solutions. He helps you bring others in.

 

“Dusan has a slight advantage because he’s used to the pressure of wearing such an important shirt. I spoke to him several times while we were training. He would be delighted to stay here. He’s not worried about his contract, he only wants to play football.”

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-fightingwin-important-for-juventus/

Modificato November 3 da Socrates

[Socrates 9433]

Juventus vs Sporting CP: Preview and Prediction

 

 

Two European heavyweights with contrasting momentum meet in Turin as Juventus host Sporting CP in the UEFA Champions League group stage. Both sides enter the contest with clear objectives, Juventus are desperate for their first win of the European campaign under new leadership, while Sporting CP will aim to solidify their place in the knockout qualification zone.

 

Juventus’s Champions League campaign so far has been a turbulent one. The Bianconeri drew high-scoring thrillers against Borussia Dortmund (4-4) and Villarreal (2-2) before falling to Real Madrid at the Bernabeu, a defeat that extended their winless run across all competitions to eight matches. That poor stretch cost Igor Tudor his job, with Luciano Spalletti now appointed to steady the ship.

 

Spalletti’s first test in Serie A was encouraging: a 2-1 victory over Cremonese that featured goals from Filip Kostic and Andrea Cambiaso, giving Juventus a much-needed morale boost on the club’s 128th anniversary weekend. Still, their European form remains worrying, Juve have won just two of their last 11 Champions League matches and must take three points here to avoid an early exit.

 

Historically, Juventus have fared well against Sporting CP. They remain unbeaten in four meetings, winning both home games in Turin, most recently in the 2023 Europa League quarter-final, where they progressed at Sporting’s expense. ............

 

With Juventus seeking redemption and Sporting chasing consistency, this encounter at the Allianz Stadium promises tactical discipline, intensity, and plenty of storylines as both teams look to define their European trajectory. The Hard Tackle takes a look at how both sides could line up and what tactics they might employ on the day.

Team News & Tactics

Juventus

Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti is still dealing with a few selection concerns as he prepares for his first Champions League match in charge of the Bianconeri. The defensive duo of Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal remain sidelined due to lingering injuries, Bremer continues his recovery from a thigh issue, while Cabal is still rehabilitating from an ankle problem.

 

Encouragingly, Kenan Yildiz and Lloyd Kelly could return after missing the weekend clash against Cremonese. Yildiz, who has been recovering from a minor knee problem, is close to full fitness, while Kelly’s muscular issue has improved sufficiently for him to make the matchday squad. Spalletti has no suspensions to contend with, offering him some welcome flexibility in team selection.

 

Although Spalletti is known for favouring a 4-3-3 formation, he opted to retain the 3-5-2 setup introduced by his predecessor Igor Tudor in the Serie A fixture against Cremonese, and that shape is expected to continue against Sporting CP. The back three of Pierre Kalulu, Daniele Rugani, and Federico Gatti will be stationed ahead of goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio, providing defensive solidity and the ability to build from the back.

 

In midfield, Khephren Thuram, Manuel Locatelli, and Teun Koopmeiners are likely to control the central areas, supported by Andrea Cambiaso and Filip Kostic as dynamic wing-backs responsible for both width and defensive cover. Up front, Lois Openda should partner Dusan Vlahovic, who has contributed to 11 goals in his 19 Champions League appearances to date and remains Juve’s key attacking threat.

 

Spalletti will expect his side to maintain compact defensive organisation while relying on quick transitions down the flanks and direct forward play through Vlahovic’s hold-up ability. The tactical emphasis will likely be on controlling possession through Locatelli and stretching Sporting’s back line with overlapping runs from Kostic and Cambiaso.

 

Probable Lineup (3-5-2): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Rugani, Gatti; Cambiaso, Thuram, Locatelli, Koopmeiners, Kostic; Openda, Vlahovic

Sporting CP

 ............

 

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Silva; Vagiannidis, Diomande, Inacio, Araujo; Hjulmand, Morita; Quenda, Trincao, Goncalves; Suarez

Key Stats

• Juventus are unbeaten in four meetings with Sporting CP across all European competitions, winning both of their previous encounters in Turin. The Bianconeri have also kept clean sheets in three of those four matches.

• Sporting CP have never won a competitive fixture in Italy, losing 14 of their 19 visits and drawing the remaining five. They have also lost each of their last three Champions League away games by the same 2-1 scoreline.

• Juventus have managed to win only two of their last 11 Champions League fixtures, highlighting their recent continental struggles. During that run, they have conceded at least two goals in seven matches.

• Sporting’s talisman Pedro Goncalves has been directly involved in nine goals from 16 matches this season across all competitions (five goals and four assists), making him the most productive player in the club’s current squad.

• Juventus have conceded eight goals in their past five matches across all competitions, while Sporting CP have kept three clean sheets in their last five games.

Player to Watch

Dusan Vlahovic

All eyes will be on Dusan Vlahovic, whose sharpness and finishing could be decisive for Juventus as they look to ignite their stuttering Champions League campaign. The Serbian striker has had a turbulent start to the season but remains the team’s most potent weapon in the final third.

 

Vlahovic’s physicality, intelligent movement, and lethal left foot make him a nightmare for defenders, particularly when supplied with quality service from the wings. He has already registered 11 goal involvements in 19 Champions League appearances, underlining his knack for performing on big European nights. ............

Prediction

Juventus 2-1 Sporting CP

Both teams enter this encounter with contrasting momentum but equally pressing motivations. Juventus, under new boss Luciano Spalletti, are still rediscovering their structure and rhythm after a turbulent start, while Sporting CP arrive full of confidence following a string of domestic victories and an encouraging Champions League campaign.

 

Spalletti’s side will rely heavily on their compact defensive shape and moments of quality from Dusan Vlahovic and Filip Kostic to unlock Sporting’s back line. Meanwhile, the visitors’ creativity through Pedro Goncalves and Francisco Trincao, coupled with their speed in transitions, could cause real problems if Juventus overcommit.

 

However, Juventus’s experience and home advantage at the Allianz Stadium may prove decisive. The Bianconeri are typically difficult to beat in Turin, and Luciano Spalletti’s tactical discipline should help them contain Sporting’s attacking fluidity.

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Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2025/11/04/juventus-vs-sporting-cp-preview-and-prediction/

[Socrates 9433]

Champions League Preview: Juventus vs. Sporting CP

 

 

As Luciano Spalletti heads into his second game as Juventus manager, he can still count on one hand how many training sessions he has had with his new club. The simple fact of when he took over for Igor Tudor and how unrelenting the schedule can be for a club playing domestically and in Europe means that new managers are simply thrown right into without much time to actually train the squad that they have taken over. ............

 

It comes at a time in which Juventus need points in Europe in the worst possible way. The Bianconeri enter Matchday 4 of the UCL league phase on the outside looking in of the play-off round qualification places. That is not a mistake — if the league phase had ended after three games, Juve wouldn’t even have the chance to try and get into the Champions League Round of 16, with their current standing of 25th place meaning they’re the first club out on the cutting room floor. So as Portuguese side Sporting make their way to Turin, the need for three points in Europe is feeling especially important — especially with everything that has happened ever since Juve’s last Champions League fixture two weeks ago in Spain. ............

 

Spalletti can still count how many training sessions he’s had with his new team, yet he’s about to take control of hs second game come Tuesday night. And as much as the debut against Cremonese was important, this one might be even more of the case or else Juve’s situation in the Champions League will be looking even the more dire than it already is after losing to Real Madrid. Juventus are in 25th place — right outside of the play-off spots that take up ninth through 24th. Sporting, in a much more favorable spot, sit 14 places above Juve after claiming a win over Marseille two weeks ago. ............

 

In his career, Spalletti doesn’t have what some would call a “good” record in the Champions League. He’s managed 67 games in Europe’s premier club competition, but has only won 29 of them and lost 23, gaining an average of 1.52 points per match. That’s … not great.

 

Spalletti’s most recent season in the Champions League coincided with his title-winning season with Napoli. They advanced to the UCL quarterfinals, only to fall to Serie A rival AC Milan. In that season, Napoli was one of the more impressive squads in Europe, with Spalletti winning seven of the 10 games Napoli played. It was also the furthest a Spalletti-coached team had advanced in the Champions League since his Roma squad made the quarterfinals in the 2027-08 campaign. ............

 

That means it has to start against Sporting and at least get to a point where Juventus has more points in Europe compared to games played this season. They’re sitting on two points in three games so far, with zero wins to their name. That’s worse than what Thiago Motta did to start the European campaign last season — and we know how that run in the Champions League ended up going.

 

Spalletti was pleased with his team’s effort against Cremonese, one of Serie A’s biggest early-season surprises. But he was also quick to say after Saturday night’s win just how much there is to still improve — which is a given or else he probably wouldn’t be in this position and hired by Juventus in the first place. He pretty much reaffirmed those thoughts during Monday’s pre-match conference. ............

 

And if things go the way they did over the weekend, then Juve could actually get their first European win of the season — which, considering it’s now November, probably needs to happen soon no matter who is manager.

 

TEAM NEWS

• The good news from the final training session before Sporting arrives in Italy: Kenan Yildiz is back with the rest of the group and Spalletti confirmed at his pre-match press conference that Juve’s No. 10 is available to play on Tuesday night.
• The other new injury that was forced to miss the trip to Cremona over the weekend, defender Lloyd Kelly, was not part of Monday’s training session and is a major doubt to face Sporting. ............
• • With Kelly likely to be unavailable, Tuen Koopmeiners is expected to play in the back three once again just as he did in the win over Cremonese. (That is not something I expected to type a week ago, people. Seriously, had no idea at all.)
  • Spalletti admitted just how important the wins over Udinese and Cremonese were from a mental standpoint, saying: The two wins that these boys earned on their own in recent days allow us to face a great team like Sporting CP with a different spirit.”
  • Spalletti said Dusan Vlahovic currently has “a bit of an advantage” over the other strikers on the roster “because he knows what’s expected here at Juventus when you step onto the pitch wearing this jersey.”
  • Juventus and Sporting last played each other during the knockout round of the Europa League in 2023.

   

  JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH

  It’s been a while since we’ve talked about a certain Dutchman in relatively positive terms. But coming out of Juventus’ win over Cremonese at the weekend, I feel like we can maybe do that again even with the incredibly small sample size.

   

  Could Luciano Spalletti have maybe figured something out when it comes to Teun Koopmeiners? ............

   

  Spalletti discovered something in playing Koopmeiners as a very deep-lying playmaker that is in the back three. The thinking behind it was that as Khephren Thuram went on his forward runs, Koopmeiners would be able to fill that space and utilize his strengths to his advantage rather than being shoehorned into positions further up the field like Thiago Motta and Igor Tudor did in his first 16 months at Juventus.

   

  For one game, at least, it worked.

   

  And with Kelly out injured, we’re likely to see it again. ............

   

  Playing Koopmeiners deeper in midfield — or, in this case, in defense — is something Spalletti specifically pointed out during his introductory press conference last week. Maybe we should have keyed in on it a little bit more as a hint to what he was thinking for the weekend, but nobody was really thinking it outside of him recognizing the Dutchman’s talents. Now, we’re all waiting to see what he can do in the backline once again.

   

  Oh, it’s funny how things change so quickly sometimes, right? Koopmeiners potentially being important as a defender is certainly nobody had on their bingo card for this season, let alone with Spalletti calling the shots and doing it right out of the gate as manager.

   

  Continue to make it look like a smart decision, Teun. Pleasant surprises are always welcome around here.

   

  MATCH INFO

  When: Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.

  Where: Juventus Stadium, Turin, Italy.

  Official kickoff time: 9 p.m. local time in Italy and across Europe, 8 p.m. in the United Kingdom, p.m. Eastern time, 2 p.m. Central time, 1 p.m. Pacific time. ............

  .

Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/33407/juventus-sporting-cp-2025-champions-league-league-phase-matchday-4-preview-team-news-schedule-how-to-watch

Modificato November 4 da Socrates

[Socrates 9433]

Massimo Pavan insists Juventus needs a good night against Sporting

 

 

Juventus are set to face Sporting Club in the Champions League tonight in what promises to be a crucial fixture for both sides. Each team will be eager to secure victory and strengthen its position in the competition. Juventus, under new manager Luciano Spalletti, approach the match with renewed energy and optimism following a recent upturn in form. ............

 

Sporting Club, the reigning champions of Portugal’s top division, represent a formidable opponent. Their technical ability, tactical organisation and experience in European competitions make them a dangerous side. Juventus, aware of this, will need to display discipline, control and creativity to overcome the challenge. The match provides Spalletti with another opportunity to assess how well his players are adapting to his methods and tactical expectations.

 

As an experienced coach with a deep understanding of European football, Spalletti knows the magnitude of the task ahead. His focus will be on maintaining Juventus’s recent momentum while identifying the individuals responding most effectively to his approach. The game is also a chance for the Bianconeri to demonstrate that their recent revival is more than temporary and that they remain capable of competing with the continent’s elite. ............

 

Commenting on the significance of the upcoming clash, Massimo Pavan stated: “The Bianconeri are immediately faced with an important, if not decisive, match. The missteps in previous matches make a victory a must. However, judging by Sporting Lisbon’s performance against Napoli, it won’t be easy at all.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/massimo-pavan-insists-juventus-needs-a-good-night-against-sporting/

[Socrates 9433]

Champions League Preview: Juventus vs Sporting CP – Team News, Line-ups & Prediction

 

 

It’s been a busy week for the Turin giants as they parted ways with underperforming boss Igor Tudor following a dreadful eight-game winless run in all competitions. Interim boss Massimo Brambilla inspired Juventus to a morale-boosting 3-1 home win over Serie A strugglers Udinese last week.

 

Then, Spalletti enjoyed a dream touchline debut as Juventus saw off newcomers Cremonese 2-1 on the road, building a head of steam ahead of Sporting’s visit. Failure is not an option for the former Scudetto winner, as the record-time Italian champions sit outside the playoff spots before the kick-off.

 

Indeed, the Bianconeri have only won two points in the opening three league-phase rounds (D2, L1), most recently slumping to a narrow 1-0 defeat at Real Madrid. In stark contrast, Sporting have fared reasonably well, sandwiching a 2-1 away loss to Juventus’ bitter rivals Napoli with a pair of home victories. ............

Match Preview

Juventus

 

This clash has all the makings of a ‘make or break’ contest for Juventus. With only two points to their name, Spalletti’s men desperately need a win here to reignite their pursuit of knockout qualification. With that in mind, this upcoming encounter against Sporting seems perfectly timed.

 

For perspective, Juventus have gone unbeaten in all four historic meetings with the Portuguese powerhouse (W2, D2). It’s also worth noting that both wins arrived in Turin, albeit by narrow single-goal margins, highlighting just how closely contested these encounters have been.

 

Maintaining their flawless home record against Sporting feels imperative, as Juventus bid to arrest a woeful four-game winless run in the Champions League (D2, L2). Ominously, that’s their worst streak at Europe’s top table since 2013. On the bright side, they’ve been formidable at the Allianz Stadium this term.

 

Despite recent managerial shifts, Allianz remains a fortress, with Juventus avoiding defeat in their last ten home outings across all competitions (W7, D3), including a nerve-wracking 4-4 draw against Borussia Dortmund in their most recent Champions League game in Turin.

 

Sporting CP

 ............

Team News

Long-term absentees Juan Cabal, Gleison Bremer, and Arkadiusz Milik remain on the sidelines. Yet, Juventus can find comfort in Kenan Yildiz’s return from injury after missing out on the Cremonese game. Moreover, Lloyd Kelly could also be at Spalletti’s disposal after overcoming a minor muscle issue. ............

 

Juventus vs Sporting CP Potential Starting Lineups

Juventus (3-5-2): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Rugani, Gatti; Cambiaso, Thuram, Locatelli, Koopmeiners, Kostic; Openda, Vlahovic.

Sporting CP (4-2-3-1): Silva; Vagiannidis, Diomande, Inacio, Araujo; Hjulmand, Morita; Quenda, Trincao, Goncalves; Suarez.

Juventus vs Sporting CP Prediction

With Spalletti on the bench, Juventus could turn into a different beast, and this clash might mark a turning point in their dreadful Champions League campaign. Given Sporting’s embarrassing record in Italy and a well-documented travel sickness, we back the Bianconeri to get off the mark in Europe.

 

Prediction: Juventus to Win

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Read more -> https://cultofcalcio.com/champions-league-preview-juventus-vs-sporting-cp-team-news-line-ups-prediction/

[Socrates 9433]

Champions League: Juventus vs. Sporting CP – probable line-ups

 

 

Kenan Yildiz is expected to partner with Dusan Vlahovic in the Juventus attack for a Champions League game against Sporting CP.

 

It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) at the Allianz Stadium in Turin.

 

The Bianconeri haven’t yet won a game in the Champions League this season, but new coach Luciano Spalletti makes his debut in Europe’s elite competition with the Old Lady in his first home game. ............

 

Italian media claim that Teun Koopmeiners will once again start in a three-man defence. Daniele Rugani is favourite over Federico Gatti at the back.

 

Juventus have collected two points in three Champions League matches so far this season. ............

Juventus vs. Sporting CP – probable line-ups

Juventus (3-5-2): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Rugani, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Kostic; McKennie, Yildiz; Vlahovic.

 

Sporting CP (4-2-3-1): Rui Silva; Vagiannidis, Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Arauji; Joao Simoes, Hjulmand; Geny Catamo, Trincao, Goncalves; Ioannidis.

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-v-sporting-probable-line-ups-watch-tv/

Modificato November 4 da Socrates

[Socrates 9433]

[Socrates 9433]

Juventus hope Thuram fit despite conflicting reports before Sporting clash

 

 

Juventus remain hopeful Khephren Thuram will be fit to face Sporting Lisbon tonight, despite Tuttosport raising concerns over a potential recurrence of his calf injury.

 

The French midfielder had missed the recent win over Udinese with a problem in his left calf but returned to start against Cremonese, lasting 79 minutes before being substituted. ............

 

Thuram experienced renewed discomfort and risked losing his place in the starting XI at the Allianz Stadium. ............

 

If the Frenchman had been unavailable, Luciano Spalletti was reportedly prepared to drop Weston McKennie into a central midfield role, with winger Francisco Conceição taking his spot on the right.

 

However, Thuram should be available for selection. A final decision will be taken close to kick-off. ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-hope-thuram-fit-for-sporting-clash/

[Socrates 9433]

Champions League line-ups: Juventus vs. Sporting CP

 

 

Kenan Yildiz returns with Dusan Vlahovic and that surprising Teun Koopmeiners deeper role as Luciano Spalletti makes his Champions League debut on the Juventus bench against Sporting CP.

 

It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin at 20.00 GMT. ............

 

Koopmeiners is there again tonight, but Kenan Yildiz has shaken off a knee issue to start in support of Vlahovic.

 

Weston McKennie is moved into a new role too, as Khephren Thuram’s calf problem is not serious enough to keep him out of the starting XI.

 

Lloyd Kelly, Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal still injured, but Francisco Conceicao comes in for a more attacking approach.

 

There is no time to lose, as Juve managed only a 4-4 draw with Borussia Dortmund, 2-2 against Villarreal, and lost 1-0 at Real Madrid. ............

 

Sporting CP have done rather well in the Champions League so far this season, beating Kairat Almaty 4-1 and Roberto De Zerbi’s Olympique Marseille 2-1, around a tight 2-1 defeat away to Napoli.

 

They won their last five competitive matches in a row, unbeaten since that trip to Naples on October 1. ............

 

Juventus vs. Sporting CP line-ups

Juventus: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Koopmeiners; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Francisco Conceicao, Kenan Yildiz; Vlahovic

Juventus bench: Perin, Scaglia, Zhegrova, Adzic, Kostic, Openda, Miretti, Rugani, Joao Mario, David, Rouhi

 

Sporting: Rui Silva; Vagiannidis, Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Araujo; Joao Simoes, Hjulmand; Quenda, Trincao, Goncalves; Ioannidis

Sporting bench: Joao Virginia, Matheus Reis, Morita, Catamo, Kochorashvili, Alisson Santos, Rodrigo Ribeiro, Bruno Ramos, Salvador Blopa, Eduardo Quaresma, Ricardo Mangas, Suarez

 

Ref: Siebert (GER)

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/champions-league-line-ups-juventus-sporting-cp/

[Socrates 9433]

[Socrates 9433]

Champions League | Juventus 1-1 Sporting: Vlahovic not enough for first victory

 

 

Dusan Vlahovic cancelled out the early Maximiliano Araujo goal, but it was not enough for Juventus to get their first Champions League victory after Luciano Spalletti’s arrival. ............

 

The pressure was already on Juve, who were still without a single win in the Champions League after high-scoring draws with Borussia Dortmund and Villarreal, then a 1-0 loss to Real Madrid.

 

Dusan Vlahovic’s scuffed volley was smothered at the back post on a Weston McKennie cross from the right, but it was Sporting who took the lead in Turin. ............

 

They nearly doubled the advantage moments later, as Francisco Trincao’s strike was deflected off Koopmeiners to smack against the crossbar, having wrong-footed Michele Di Gregorio.

 

Juventus also threatened, as Rui Silva made an extraordinary reaction save one-handed to deny the Vlahovic diving header from close range on Pierre Kalulu’s cross, then got down to fingertip the Serbian’s daisy-cutter round the far post. ............

 

Manuel Locatelli scuffed a finish wide from a promising position, and the Bianconeri equalised when Khephren Thuram surged down the left to roll across for Vlahovic, sliding in at the near post from seven yards. ............

 

Kenan Yildiz pulled back from the by-line for Francisco Conceicao to score in an identical position to the goal, but this time a crucial Goncalo Inacio deflection turned it wide of the near stick. ............

 

Fabio Miretti came on for his season debut, but Geny Catamo drilled wide after Koopmeiners was nutmegged, while Filip Kostic smashed into the arms of Rui Silva from distance.

 

Jonathan David had a huge opportunity to win it in stoppages, but his header on Pierre Kalulu’s ball over the top was acrobatically fingertipped out from under the bar by Rui Silva.

 

Kostic also saw his volley deflected over by Morita with practically the last kick of the game, as the Old Lady was held to another disappointing European draw.

Juventus 1-1 Sporting CP

Araujo 12 (S), Vlahovic 34 (J) ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/champions-league-juventus-1-1-scp-vlahovic-not/

Modificato November 4 da Socrates

[Socrates 9433]

Player Ratings: Juventus 1-1 Sporting CP – Refreshed Vlahovic

 

 

Dusan Vlahovic was the best Juventus player in a 1-1 draw against Sporting CP on Tuesday.

Juventus vs. Sporting CP Player ratings

Di Gregorio 5.5 –  ............

Kalulu 6.5 – Finally returned to his natural role, and it’s no coincidence that he put down another solid defensive performance. He still had the strength to push forward in the final minutes.

Gatti 6 –  ............

Koopmeiners 6 – Played as a centre-back for the second consecutive game. Contributed to the build-up with 74 touches; only Locatelli had more (75).

McKennie 5 –  ............

Locatelli 6.5 – Some good cross-field passes and a fine reading of the game that helped the team defensively (82′ Miretti N/A).

Thuram 7 – Tough start to the game as Sporting found space in the middle, but the assist for Vlahovic was pure quality. (71′ Kostic 6)

Cambiaso 5.5 –  ............

Francisco Conceicao 6.5 – It’s never easy to face in a one-on-one. He lost pace in the second half, but put quality in every pass, ending with 100% accuracy. (71′ Zhegrova 6)

Kenan Yildiz 6 – Some good moves down the left flank, but ultimately lacked the final touch to inspire the Juventus attacks. (86′ David N/A)

Vlahovic 7.5 – The best Juventus player had the best chances in the game and scored a beautiful goal to level the score. He seems revived under Spalletti. He showed the right attitude, and the home crowd loved it. (82′ Adzic)

 

Coach: Spalletti 6.5 – Juventus probably created enough chances to win the game, but, at the same time, they were lucky not to go down by two goals in the first half. The reaction was there and the performance as well, at least until they pressed high. They naturally dropped intensity in the second half, but still created a couple of chances to win it.

 

Sporting: Rui Silva 7.5; Vagiannidis 6 (67′ Quaresma 6), Diomande 6, Gonçalo Inácio 6, Araújo 7; João Simões 6 (82′ Morita N/A), Hjulmand 6.5; Quenda 5.5 (67′ Catamo 6), Trincao 7, Gonçalves 5.5 (82′ Santos); Ioannidis 5.5 (72′ Suárez). Coach: Rui Borges 6

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-sporting-player-ratings-vlahovic/

[Socrates 9433]

Wasteful Juventus share the spoils with Sporting Club

 

 

Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw against Sporting Club in their latest European outing, failing to convert several promising chances that could have secured them victory. The result left many reflecting on missed opportunities in a match where Juve showed determination but lacked the finishing edge to claim all three points.

 

Luciano Spalletti, making his European debut on the Juventus bench, faced immediate pressure to deliver a strong result. ............

 

From the opening minutes, Juventus showed purpose and control, seeking the breakthrough that would calm any nerves. Dusan Vlahovic came close to opening the scoring, but his effort was well saved by Rui Silva, who reacted superbly to deny the Serbian forward. The missed opportunity proved costly, as Maximiliano Araujo found the net for Sporting just a minute later, leaving Juventus unexpectedly trailing.

 

Falling behind prompted a strong response from the hosts, who began to dominate possession and create more chances. Vlahovic, leading the line with power and intent, continued to unsettle the Sporting defence with his movement and physicality. His persistence paid off as he scored the equaliser, restoring parity and giving the Bianconeri momentum before the interval. ............

 

Spalletti’s half-time team talk appeared to energise his players, as Juventus resumed the second half with renewed intensity. They pressed high, dictated the tempo, and forced Sporting deeper into their own half. Jonathan David came agonisingly close to scoring what looked like the winner, only for Rui Silva to once again deny Juventus with a crucial save. ............

 

Despite their relentless effort, Spalletti’s men were unable to find a decisive goal, bringing an end to their winning streak. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/wasteful-juventus-share-the-spoils-with-sporting-club/

[Socrates 9433]

Koopmeiners spoke to Juventus and Spalletti about his role: ‘Much better’ now

 

 

Teun Koopmeiners reveals he spoke to Juventus directors and Luciano Spalletti about his role and highlights the ‘positive spirit’ in the dressing room under the new coach.

 

 

Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw by Sporting CP at the Allianz Stadium on Tuesday. Koopmeiners started the second consecutive match as a left centre-back in a three-man defence. ............

 

“It’s true, in the first 15 minutes we didn’t find the right shape in defence to press, but we were more aggressive after that and had chances to score,” Koopmeiners said.

 

“After the break, we attacked and it’s a pity we weren’t able to score more, as we needed to win this game. There are many positives we can take going forward, but also things we have to work on.”

 

Tonight’s draw means Juventus are still winless in four Champions League games, having collected three draws and one defeat. ............

 

“I feel much better in this position, because I am not a forward who plays with his back to goal, where I played in other games. I told the representatives of the club that too, and I told Spalletti. I had already played this role many years ago in Holland and it is where I feel comfortable,” he said.

 

“I am a player who wants the ball, to pass to my teammates, to push everyone else forward, and I can do that with a midfielder and another defender near me.” ............

 

“Spalletti surprises me a little compared to other coaches, he is quite unique. He has a positive spirit, and in this game we saw Conceicao and Yildiz putting energy into helping defence and attack, which is what you need in modern football.”

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/koopmeiners-spoke-juventus-spalletti-role/

[Socrates 9433]

Vlahovic ‘felt pain’ before substitution, Juventus ‘not happy’ with draw

 

 

Dusan Vlahovic reveals he felt ‘a twinge in the flexor’ so he was forced to be subbed off against Sporting CP, in a 1-1 draw that makes the Old Lady ‘absolutely not happy.’

 

Vlahovic scored the equaliser for the Bianconeri on Tuesday evening, contributing to a 1-1 draw in Round 4. ............

 

Vlahovic has joined Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain in scoring at least nine goals in his opening 20 Champions League appearances with the club.

 

“It is a nice statistic, it’s pleasing, but I’d prefer to talk about today’s match,” the striker said.

 

“We are absolutely not happy with the result, because we think that we played well, did better than them, even though Sporting are a strong side who can dominate teams. We reacted well and it was just a pity we couldn’t score more goals.

 

“I can only congratulate the coach and team for the performance, hopefully we can play like this and win. We want to win all four remaining matches now.” ............

 

“Yes, we talked, I am concentrated on the present and my only focus is Saturday’s game,” he replied.

 

“We will try to win, as it is the derby, that means a lot and won’t be easy, but we want the points.” ............

 

“I felt a twinge in the flexor, and I asked to come off. I don’t know if the coach wanted me to come off or not, I was sad not to finish the game, but I felt this pain,” he said.

 

“I speak for myself, I didn’t play much during pre-season, then didn’t play regularly, so I am still lacking a little something in terms of match fitness. I feel bad because I was unable to help the team to the final minute, but I’m trying to give 100 per cent of myself.” ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/vlahovic-pain-substitution-not-happy-juventus/

[Socrates 9433]

Spalletti: ‘Juventus deserved more, but will win with this spirit’

 

 

Luciano Spalletti insists Juventus ‘deserved to take the lead’ in their 1-1 Champions League draw with Sporting CP, but ‘if we continue with this spirit, we will win many games.’ ............

 

“Sporting are a very good team, because they play an attacking style of football, they like to keep possession and have a ferocious press,” Spalletti said.

 

“We had a complicated start, then this great reaction, we took the game in hand and deserved to take the lead, creating three or four good chances. At the start we lost the ball too cheaply, weren’t clean enough in our passing, struggled under pressure, but in general after that the team played well.

 

“What gives me confidence is that we have talented players with quality who can make the difference when taking men on. Dusan worked so hard throughout too. We need to improve the speed of our passing, to circulate the ball and make the opponents move around.” ............

 

“There is the risk of being too attacking against Sporting, as they are so good at playing in tight spaces, that is the Portuguese school of football,” noted Spalletti.

 

“We took possession off them and at times were a little too frenetic with our choices, giving the ball back after winning it. We had to claw it off them with tooth and nail, whereas we gave it back to them too easily.

 

“I still believe this is a strong team, I am convinced that if we continue with this spirit, we will win many games.” ............

 

“Clearly, passing the ball quickly is what makes the difference, but there are many different phases of the game. Sometimes you have to pin the opponents back, move them around and pick the moment to break through. At others you have to counter and get the finish as quickly as possible,” added Spalletti. ............

 

This means Juve run the very real risk of first stage elimination, having amassed only three points from the opening four match days, with a goal difference of -1.

 

It is a tough fixture list coming up, with a trip to Bodo/Glimt always tricky in November, then hosting Pafos and Benfica, before finally visiting Paul Pogba’s AS Monaco. ............

 

“The stadium was packed, it’s a beautiful atmosphere with everyone surrounding you. The players felt it too with a good performance, we can always improve, but I feel we can achieve something together,” concluded Spalletti.

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-juventus-deserved-more-this-spirit/

Modificato November 5 da Socrates

[Socrates 9433]

Kalulu hits back at Juventus criticism and ‘nastiness’

 

 

Pierre Kalulu hits back at criticism after Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw by Sporting CP in the Champions League. ‘I expected a reaction, perhaps there is more nastiness when you evaluate.’ ............

 

“We wanted a victory today, because we needed the result,” Kalulu said.

 

“We had lots of chances, more than Sporting, even if they are a team who move the ball around well. It’s a pity. This is a Champions League game, it’s difficult to dominate for an entire match, but we can build on this for the next matches.” ............

 

“I was not surprised by my team, because there are many games where we conceded first and reacted. I expected this from my teammates, perhaps in your eyes there is more nastiness when evaluating, but I have faith in my teammates,” said the former Milan defender.

 

“We are working well and keep going.” ............

 

Juventus have only three points from their first four Champions League matches, and a goal difference of -1, so by the end of tomorrow’s games could find themselves in the elimination places.

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/kalulu-hits-back-juventus-criticism-nastiness/

[Socrates 9433]

Juventus 1 - Sporting CP 1: Initial reaction and random observations

 

 

If Luciano Spalletti’s first two games as Juventus manager have shown us anything, it’s that he’s been able to unlock a few things when it comes to this team’s previously frustrating chance creation issues.

 

The finishing of those chances, though? That’s still a problem.

 

Juventus outshot Sporting CP by nearly a 5-to-1 margin on Tuesday night, with half of the Bianconeri’s 18 shots in the game being on goal. The problem was, you combine some relatively poor finishing with an opposing goalkeeper making a couple of world-class kinds of saves, and you get what Spalletti got in his second game in charge — a frustrating day at the office. Juventus should have beaten Sporting with how much they dominated after falling behind all of 12 minutes in. That turned out to be Sporting’s only shot on goal of the night, but Juventus couldn’t take advantage of their superior advantage in scoring opportunities, recording a 1-1 draw against the Portuguese side, their third result of that kind through their first four Champions League league phase fixtures. ............

 

There is certainly progress being made in the attacking phase under Spalletti. There’s faster movement, there’s more chances being created and just the overall prospects when it comes to Juve creating things feels much better than they did in the final games of the Igor Tudor experience. But, the catch as has been the case with previous Juventus managers, is just how many of those chances will they will actually socre. It didn’t matter if it was Dusan Vlahovic, Kenan Yildiz, Chico Conceição, Jonathan David or Khephren Thuram, Juve’s ability to finish chances against Sporting was a letdown on top of a little unlucky.

 

That’s because on a night in which Juve should have probably have two or three goals, it was only Vlahovic who was able to find the back of the net — and that was only after he saw his first three attempts on goal either go wide or get thwarted by Sporting keeper Rui Silva.

So positive signs, yes. But also some lingering frustrating ones that a coach may or may not be able to actually change for the better as time goes on. ............

 

This team is looking better in the two games under Spalletti than they had in a long time under Tudor. On the face of it, these sorts of unlucky draws in which you feel like Juventus should have won happen every so often during the course of a season. But knowing Juve’s situation in the Champions League entering the night and how they desperately needed three points, that’s where it’s a hard one to take.

 

It’s disappointing with how they responded to falling behind. It’s disappointing with how many chances they created and should have scored. It’s just disappointing this team is its own worst enemy once again — and that is something Spalletti is going to need all of his coaching experience to try and rectify as time goes on.

 

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

• This should have been a win, man. I feel 150% safe in saying that.
• Sporting came into the night in a much, much better place in the UCL league phase table. Yet it was Juventus who played much, much better overall. Sporting definitely did not play well. Juventus did play well. But, unfortunately, those issues that we’ve seen under Tudor and Thiago Motta (and Max Allegri) before him, were ones Spalletti saw first-hand against Sporting.
• The question is now: Can Spalletti do enough to improve things mentally where the confidence improves of the strikers and they can actually get some of these finishing issues out of their system. Or else it’s just going to be more of the same from these guys — and nobody wants that. ............
• Also, I have no idea what was going on with Thuram’s shooting in this game, but holy smokes was he completely off target with those couple of second-half chances he had. You can’t sky both of those, and have the second one be even worse than the first.
• Hey, we got to see Edon Zhegrova for the first time in a long time! His hair is a little longer compared to his last appearance for Juventus, but he sure did show just how in limited minutes what he can do. Now it’s ............
• Speaking of Portuguese things, the traveling fans relentlessly whistling and booing Conceição whenever he was in front of them and on the ball had to be one of the least surprising things ever, right? I mean, those Sporting-Porto roots run DEEP and Chico’s Porto past — as well as his father’s! — will never be forgotten by those in Lisbon.
• This isn’t breaking news, but I just want to say how fun it is to watch Kenan Yildiz when he is in the mood like he was against Sporting. Sure, he didn’t score, but that young man was absolutely out there looking to destroy ever single person who was marking him on Tuesday night. I think Morten Hjulmand might have some sore ankles in the morning because of the move Yildiz put on him in the first half. ............
• Spalletti might really be onto something with Koopmeiners playing at the back. Obviously a back three isn’t Spalletti’s preferred tactical setup, but it’s hard to go against what has suddenly been working for a player that prior to Juve hiring a new manager has looked rather helpless under their previous two coaches. Juve may still have defensive issues going forward these next few weeks and months, but if Koopmeiners keeps playing this way in this position, then he’s certainly not going to be one of them.
• That passage of play from Koopmeiners to Yildiz to Thuram for Vlahovic’s goal was just so nice. It took all of three passes to cover all of that space. That’s direct and effective football right there, baby.
• Should we rate Spalletti’s outfit on a chilly early-November night in Turin? Yes, I feel like we should… ............
• This version of Dusan Vlahovic we’ve seen the last couple of games is the one we’ve been waiting for the entire time he’s played for Juventus. We’ve seen it in little spurts, so there’s no reason to get too excited about his form over the last week or two just yet, but it sure is nice to see him come to life.
• Yes, if this is the Vlahovic that Juve will get the majority of the time, then a contract extension offer seems like a logical step as other strikers not named Yildiz continue to struggle. But, again, it’s always been about consistency with Vlahovic, and he still needs to prove that under Spalletti. ............
• I repeat, Sporting had all of four shots. Outside of the goal and the shot that hit off the crossbar, they did next to nothing. And yet, it’s a draw — that’s what makes it so frustrating with this team.
• But this club now has three draws in Europe and five draws in the league, so it’s just par for the course no matter how they play. Getting the draw-itus out of this team might be one of Spalletti’s biggest challenges amongst many of them the rest of the season.
• But hey, they’re up to 23rd place! Can’t forget that part!
• Now we hope that they can at least head into the international break with a win over Torino at the weekend. That should, if they win, be a nice foundation or Spalletti to hopefully build off of as they head into a big couple of weeks after the break, including his first matchup with Napoli since winning the title in Naples.

Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/33502/juventus-sporting-cp-2025-champions-league-league-phase-matchday-4-final-score-initial-reaction-random-observations

[Socrates 9433]

“Not giving up” Di Gregorio discusses Juventus draw against Sporting

 

 

Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw by Sporting Club in their latest Champions League outing, extending their recent struggles in Europe. Despite coming off a morale-boosting win against Cremonese at the weekend, the Bianconeri were unable to build on that momentum against a well-organised Portuguese side who proved difficult to break down. ............

 

Sporting entered the contest in good form, having won two of their opening three Champions League fixtures, and they showed no intention of being overwhelmed in Turin. The visitors took the lead and came close to doubling their advantage before Juventus managed to claw their way back into the game with an equaliser.

 

Although the draw ensured that Luciano Spalletti’s side avoided defeat, it did little to improve their position in the group. Juventus now face an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout stages and will need a significant turnaround in their remaining fixtures if they are to keep their European ambitions alive. ............

 

Goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio played an important role in preventing Juventus from suffering defeat, producing several key saves to keep the scoreline level. His efforts, however, were not enough to secure all three points or a clean sheet.

 

Following the match, Di Gregorio took to Instagram to share a message of determination and resilience with supporters, writing: “Not the result we wanted, but we’re not giving up. We keep working.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/not-giving-up-di-gregorio-discusses-juventus-draw-against-sporting/

[Socrates 9433]

Juventus legend Del Piero surprised by Spalletti’s decision on David

 

 

Alessandro Del Piero was surprised that Luciano Spalletti didn’t introduce either Jonathan David or Lois Openda as replacements for Dusan Vlahovic in a 1-1 draw against Sporting CP on Tuesday. ............

 

Vlahovic scored the equaliser for Juventus in the first half, but when he was subbed off at minute 83, the central midfielder Vasilije Adžić took his place on the field.

 

By doing so, Spalletti also moved Kenan Yildiz into a centre-forward role for a few minutes before David was ultimately introduced at minute 87 with little chance to leave his mark. ............

 

“I was a bit disappointed by the final 15 minutes. Vlahovic was subbed off, but neither David nor Openda were introduced,” Del Piero said.

 

“Spalletti put Yildiz in a more advanced position, but he’s not a No.9, and he decided to strengthen the midfield without involving the players Juventus invested in. This left me perplexed. In this moment, Spalletti is studying the team, but it’s something Juventus have to fix because they struggle to score goals. If you invest so much, you must make the most of it.” ............

 

Juventus will probably need from eight to nine points to qualify for the Champions League playoff, while a direct place in the Round of 16 seems practically impossible.

 

They have four Champions League games remaining against Bodo/Glimt, Pafos, Benfica and Monaco.

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-del-piero-surprised-spalletti-david/

Modificato November 5 da Socrates

[Socrates 9433]

Le Pagelle: Juventus vs. Sporting CP

 

 

It was an excruciating day at the J Stadium on Tuesday, as Juventus came agonizingly close to a winning goal against Sporting CP, only to be denied by last-second blocks, misjudged runs, or high-level saves by goalkeeper Rui Silva. In short, rotten luck. ............

 

MICHELE DI GREGORIO - 6.  ............

PIERRE KALULU - 7.5. Easily one of the best players on the night on either side. He was second on the team with three tackles, held his side of the back three very well, and picked and chose his moments to move forward and help supplement the attack. He finished with three key passes, tied for the game high with Khéphren Thuram, and how he didn’t come away with at least one assist is beyond my comprehension. The balls he put in for Vlahovic in the first half and David at the end of the game were superb, yet Silva managed to get hands to both of the resulting headers.

 

FEDERICO GATTI - 6. He didn’t light up the stat sheet defensively—for once the defenders didn’t have a whole lot of opportunity to rack up numbers—but his success on the day was clear in the statistics of two other players. Fotis Iannoidis and Luis Suárez (not that one), Sporting’s top two strikers, combined for zero (0) shots in this contest.

TEUN KOOPMEINERS - 6. I wasn’t expecting Luciano Spalletti to send Koopmeiners back out in the back three against higher-level competition, especially in the Champions League. In the initial stages when Sporting looked like they might run away with things it looked like the communication in the back was all over the place, especially on his side—which would make sense given that he’s done this in one game and less than half a dozen training sessions. But he seemed to settle in, making two tackles and holding his own as Juve started to take control of the game. The really interesting thing, though, was the occasional line-breaking pass from his spot on the back line. This is likely what Luciano Spalletti was envisioning when he decided to put Koopmeiners here, and having those kind of balls to feed on further upfield could have a huge impact on the attack. It’s worth watching to see where this goes.

WESTON McKENNIE - 5.5.  ............

MANUEL LOCATELLI - 6.5.  ............

KHÉPHREN THURAM - 6. Made three key passes, including the assist on Dusan Vlahovic’s equalizer on a pass that was far more complicated to make than it looked. Completed 93.9 percent of his overall passes and aided the defense with a pair of interceptions. It’s good to see him making those big runs through midfield again, but this grade was dinged half a point or so for the egregious misses he had on some shots midway through the second half.

ANDREA CAMBIASO - 6.  ............

FRANCISCO CONCEIÇÃO - 6.  ............

KENAN YILDIZ - 6. Made a huge effort but seemed a bit off on final product. There were times he couldn’t get past defenders and into shooting positions we’ve seen him get to this year. Either his knee really is hurting him and disrupting his play, or he was simply fatigued from a heavy workload this year.

DUSAN VLAHOVIC - 7. Played like a man on a mission today. Denied early by two smart saves from Rui Silva, but it looked like all that did was make him angry over not scoring. Good finish to push the ball hard past the keeper at the near post. By the time he was withdrawn, he had taken six shots and put every one of them on target—something I don’t think I’ve ever seen.

SUBS

FILIP KOSTIC - 5.5.  ............

EDON ZHEGROVA - 5.5. Drew three fouls in his time on the pitch but didn’t quite show the quality we know he can display in his first game back from injury.

VASILIJE ADZIC - NR.  ............

FABIO MIRETTI - NR. Well look who’s here! Miretti made his season debut Tuesday and actually looked pretty good for his first eight minutes after a long time away. Picked up a key pass and completed all 12 attempts overall.

JONATHAN DAVID - NR. Ok, there are a lot of people up in arms over David’s failure to score at the end of the game. Head it into the ground! To the left or the right of the keeper! I’d like to point out that Kalulu’s ball, while fantastic, came in on a trajectory that it didn’t really allow David to jump, meaning he had to hope to beat Silva with something high—and nearly did. That also probably affected his ability to aim. In the end he delivered a powerful header that would’ve been a goal had Silva not again made a fantastic save.

MANAGER ANALYSIS

It’s going to be very interesting to see where Spalletti eventually takes this team tactically, but what he has done so far is fascinating. As I said before, I was very surprised that he stuck with Koopmeiners in the back against a team with far more quality than Cremonese (no disrespect to the Grigiorossi), but the multi-line passes that the Dutchman occasionally pulled out were the kind of pass this team hasn’t been very good at over the last few years, and having Koopmeiners back there to provide it is an intriguing prospect.

 

How far that goes, of course, depends on where Spalletti goes with his tactics, which is still impossible to determine after only six days on the job. But he has Juve playing at a very good clip right now, and the attack is looking quite dangerous indeed. But for a little luck, Juve would have won this game. If they play the same way on Saturday, they could make Torino very uncomfortable. ............

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