JUVENTUS SEASON 2025-2026

[Socrates 10027]

Inter Milan v Juventus match preview and prediction

 

 

Juventus sit twelve points behind Inter Milan at the top of the Serie A table, but they have an opportunity to reduce that deficit by three points in their upcoming encounter. At this stage of the season, it is difficult to argue that Juventus remain genuine contenders for the Scudetto, yet securing a Champions League position remains a priority.

 

Although a title challenge may be out of reach, points in this fixture are crucial for Juve’s ambitions of qualifying for Europe’s premier competition. Finishing outside the Champions League would represent a significant setback for the Old Lady, regardless of their position relative to Inter. ............

 

When travelling to face Inter, Juventus drew 4-4 in their last Serie A visit, but historically, the home side has held the advantage, winning two of the last three meetings against the Bianconeri. This record underscores the challenge Juventus face as they seek to close the gap in the table while navigating a hostile environment in Milan.

 

With Champions League qualification still at stake, Juve must combine tactical discipline with attacking ingenuity if they are to emerge from this fixture with a valuable victory.

 

Prediction

 

Inter Milan 2-2 Juventus

.

Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/inter-milan-v-juventus-match-preview-and-prediction/

[Socrates 10027]

“Not just to control the game” What Paolo Di Canio expects from Inter Milan v Juventus

 

 

Juventus will visit Inter Milan this weekend for the latest instalment of the Derby d’Italia, a fixture eagerly anticipated by football fans. Inter have been in strong form this season and face pressure to maintain their lead at the top of the Serie A table.

 

That said, Juventus are not without its own concerns. The Bianconeri must secure points to remain within the top four, with Champions League qualification now the minimum requirement. ............

 

Given the context, Juventus will approach the game with intensity and focus, recognising that only their best performance is likely to yield a favourable result. Inter Milan’s consistent displays mean that the visitors must improve on recent performances to avoid falling victim to a home side determined to avenge their previous defeat in Turin. ............

 

Paolo Di Canio expects a thrilling match and provided his insight: “I absolutely expect a good match, given how we know Spalletti, but also Chivu himself, given the way he’s guiding the team. I imagine they’ll implement a strategy to win, not just to control the game. I expect an Inter-Juve match that will captivate those who love football the way I do, where you take risks and don’t wait for your opponent to make mistakes.” ............

.

Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/not-just-to-control-the-game-what-paolo-di-canio-expects-from-inter-milan-v-juventus/

[Socrates 10027]

Khephren Thuram could miss Juventus match against Inter Milan

 

 

Khephren Thuram is a doubt for Juventus’s crucial clash against Inter Milan due to an injury he sustained during training. The French midfielder has been a key figure for Luciano Spalletti over the past few weeks, contributing significantly to Juventus’ performances with his defensive solidity and ability to control the midfield. If fully fit, he would be expected to start against Inter, but the club are taking a cautious approach to his recovery.

 

The upcoming fixture carries considerable importance for both sides. Juventus must secure a positive result to maintain their position in the top four and strengthen their chances of qualifying for the Champions League. ............

 

Thuram has been instrumental in Juventus’ recent successes, and his absence could be felt keenly in midfield. Beyond his tactical importance, the match holds personal significance as he faces the prospect of competing against his older brother, who plays for Inter. This adds an emotional layer to the fixture, which could influence both players’ performances and motivation on the pitch. ............

 

Thuram picked up the injury during training. Although it does not appear to be serious, the timing raises concerns regarding his readiness for a match of such magnitude. Juventus are unlikely to risk aggravating the issue, and Thuram himself would prefer to participate only if he is fully fit, prioritising his long-term fitness over a rushed return.

 

The club’s medical and coaching staff will need to carefully monitor his condition and make a decision that balances short-term objectives with long-term welfare. ............

.

Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/khephren-thuram-could-miss-juventus-match-against-inter-milan/

[Socrates 10027]

Locatelli assures that Juventus knows what is at stake tomorrow

 

 

Manuel Locatelli understands the magnitude of the occasion as Juventus prepare to face Inter Milan, and he will be eager to guide the Old Lady to a significant result in what promises to be a decisive encounter.

 

Juventus have performed well in phases this season, yet Inter Milan sit at the summit of the league table for a reason and will be determined to underline their credentials in this fixture. The Bianconeri have shown inconsistency at times, something they must now address if they are to maintain momentum and compete strongly in the latter stages of the campaign. ............

 

Locatelli has made it clear that the squad are fully aware of what is required. He said, “We know the importance of the match at all levels, we know their strength, they have a great coach and have been playing together for a long time and are mature. We lacked this maturity a bit; we should have won some games, even dirty ones. We are more aware and confident. We must have this personality and put in a great performance tomorrow.” ............

.

Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/locatelli-assures-that-juventus-knows-what-is-at-stake-tomorrow/

[Socrates 10027]

Serie A Preview: Inter vs Juventus – Team News, Lineups & Prediction

 

 

Inter maintained their dominant Serie A form with a stunning 5-0 victory at newly promoted Sassuolo last weekend. In addition to extending their lead over second-placed Milan to eight points, they have now won five consecutive league matches for the second time this season. ............

 

 

Juventus claimed bragging rights in this match-up earlier this season under Igor Tudor. Now it’s up to Luciano Spalletti to help the record-time Italian champions complete their first league double over the Nerazzurri since the 2022/23 season. It could prove a season-defining result for the visitors, whose top-four hopes are hanging in the balance.

 

Level on points with fifth-placed Roma, Juventus had to pull off a sensational late comeback to avoid defeat against Lazio last Sunday, drawing 2-2 at home. Yet, it was no comfort for the Turin faithful following a disappointing 3-0 loss at Atalanta in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals.

Match Preview

Inter

 ............

 

 

Juventus

Juventus’ recent drop-off has seen them pick up just one win across their last four competitive games (D2, L1), courtesy of a 4-1 rout of bottom-half Parma in Serie A. Keen to get back to winning ways after clinching a last-gasp draw against Lazio, Juventus will be out to address their travel sickness.

 

Spalletti’s charges have failed to get on the scoresheet in three of their last four away matches across all competitions (W1, D1, L2). Breaking that ominous trend could prove easier said than done, given that the visitors have lost three away league encounters against current top-eight sides this season.

 

Therefore, Juventus must seek a fast start at Meazza, not least because they’ve lost all four road fixtures when conceding the opening goal in Serie A this term. An opener may not necessarily set them up for success, but it would likely bring them closer to securing three successive top-flight wins over Inter for the first time since 2013.

Team News

Chivu has received a double injury boost ahead of this mouth-watering fixture, with Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu resuming full training during midweek. ............

 

On the other hand, Jonathan David is likely to lead the line for Juventus as Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik remain on the sidelines. Francisco Conceicao will be at Spalletti’s disposal after missing the match against Lazio. However, Khephren Thuram could start from the bench due to a minor fitness problem.

Inter vs Juventus Potential Starting Lineups

Inter (3-5-2): Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Martinez.

 

Juventus (4-2-3-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Koopmeiners; Conceicao, McKennie, Yildiz; David.

Inter vs Juventus Prediction

With the home crowd and momentum firmly on their side, Inter will be confident about ending their ‘big game’ Serie A drought under Chivu. However, Juventus have had the Nerazzurri’s number in recent meetings, and given what’s at stake for both sides, this fiercely contested Derby d’Italia could ultimately finish all square.

 

Prediction: Draw

.

Read more -> https://cultofcalcio.com/serie-a-preview-inter-vs-juventus-team-news-lineups-prediction/

[Socrates 10027]

Round 25: Inter Milan vs. Juventus match preview

 

 

As much as the looming Champions League tie against Galatasaray is something that has been on our radar for the last couple of weeks, the same can’t be said about the second meeting of the 2025-26 season against Inter Milan. That is simply because the Derby d’Italia is something you have circled on your calendar for months, and based on how the first matchup went, the second one was always going to be an important measuring stick for both sides of Italy’s biggest rivalry.

 

Of course, a lot has happened since that mid-September fixture that saw a seven-goal thriller go the way of Juventus.

 

That win proved to be one of the last ones that Igor Tudor recorded as Juventus manager before being fired all of five weeks later. Yes, the same Tudor who is about to become an interim manager for the second straight season, this time at Tottenham Hotspur with a few Juventus players of the past. ............

 

So now, five months after that first meeting that ended with Vasilije Adžić sending the Allianz Stadium into an absolute frenzy with his hammer of a game-winning goal, Juventus and Inter meet again, this time for a Valentine’s Day showdown at the stadium that just hosted the Opening Ceremony for the Winter Olympics. ............

 

Juventus are certainly an improved team under Luciano Spalletti heading into Saturday night’s matchup with the Serie A leaders. Inter are maybe even more of a case of a team finding serious form over the last couple of months and have been able to build an eight-point advantage over city rivals AC Milan entering Matchday 25. (That was cut to five points with Milan’s victory over Pisa on Luka Modric’s late game-winning goal because that’s just what a world-class player at age 40 is capable of sometimes.)

 

Both teams are better than they were the first time the Derby d’Italia was on the schedule.

 

But the question is: Can the current version of Juventus, one that is coming off a loss to Atalanta in the Coppa Italia and a frustrating draw with Lazio last weekend, get the better of the current version of Cristian Chivu’s Inter?

 

We know how the last couple of outings for Juventus have been more about what they haven’t done despite being far from a side that has played poorly. What about Inter? What have they done recently? Well, let’s take a look …

• Inter have won 11 of their last 12 games in Serie A.
• Inter have kept a clean sheet in five of their last seven games in Serie A.
• In six of their last eight games in Serie A, Inter have been able to build a lead heading into halftime.
• In their last three Serie A victories, Inter have scored a combined total of 13 goals and allowed all of one.

That is a team on form. No matter what they’ve done in Europe — and, just like Juventus, they have a Champions League play-off round matchup to think of in a few days, too — they’re absolutely the most in-form team in Serie A these days and there’s no real alternate contender to try and convince you otherwise. ............

 

Based simply on results from the past 180 or so minutes of football last week, Juventus are in need of a major bounce back to get back on track. With their draw to Lazio and Roma’s win over Cagliari 24 hours later, Juventus now have company on 46 points entering the weekend. Considering Roma play a desperate Napoli team, there’s a chance for a little bit of help if Juventus were to get the win at San Siro on Saturday night.

But that involves Juventus winning — which against such an in-form like Inter is going to even more complicated of a possibility as heading to Milan usually is to begin with. Then again, Juve have won the last two head-to-head matchups against Inter and will be going for a third this weekend. Three is a trend — and that is something that we can most certainly support if it continues.

TEAM NEWS

• In an interesting twist that could be the case for the foreseeable future, Spalletti did not hold a pre-match press conference, with the club reportedly insisting on the Tuscan manager focusing on the game(s) ahead rather than having to deal with multiple media obligations ahead of Saturday’s Derby d’Italia. So, if you were hoping to get squad updates in classic Spalletti fashion, you’re out of luck.
• Instead of Spalletti holding a pre-match press conference, Juventus had captain Manuel Locatelli take to the mic and talk with the media to preview Saturday’s showdown with Inter. As you can probably guess, it’s a little different kind of press conference with Locatelli as compared to a manager like Spalletti.
• When it comes to squad news, we do know that Khephren Thuram is suddenly a doubt to face Inter after picking up a bone bruise in training on Friday. He will be re-evaluated on Saturday morning prior to the squad’s departure for Milan.
• If Thuram is to miss Saturday’s derby against his brother’s team, it will likely be Teun Koopmeiners stepping in and starting alongside Locatelli. ............
• • Other than the worries about Thuram’s fitness, the only real lineup decision that Spalletti looks to have is if he will stick with his 4-2-3-1 formation or if he will switch to a three-man backline to mirror Inter’s 3-5-2. If he does go to a three-man backline, that likely means Weston McKennie starts ahead of Francisco Conceição as one of the two attacking midfielders behind Jonathan David.
  • Just as was the case last weekend against Lazio, both Locatelli and Weston McKennie — two very important players for Spalletti these days! — are one yellow card away from having to serve a one-game suspension.

  JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH

 ............

 

 

In Juventus’ loss to Atalanta and draw to Lazio, a certain Gleison Bremer hasn’t exactly been all that impressive. That in of itself is notable because Bremer and his broad shoulders are usually incredibly impressive — and that’s not just me trying to work in the fact that he is an incredibly handsome man. He’s very good at his job. Unfortunately, that hasn’t exactly been the case lately, and that is something that will need to change for the better if Juventus want a chance to claim a second straight win over their most-hated rival.

 

But if Bremer’s not at his usual level, then it could be a long night. ............

 

MATCH INFO

When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.

Where: Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, Milan, Italy.

Official kickoff time: 8:45 p.m. local time in Italy and across Europe, 7:45 p.m. in the United Kingdom, 2:45 p.m. Eastern time, 1:45 p.m. Central time, 11:45 a.m. Pacific time.

.

Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/36333/inter-milan-juventus-derby-d-italia-2026-serie-a-matchday-25-preview-team-news-schedule-how-to-watch

[Socrates 10027]

[Socrates 10027]

[Socrates 10027]

[Socrates 10027]

[Socrates 10027]

 

 

[Socrates 10027]

Juventus chief Elkann calls to protest at serious refereeing errors

 

 

John Elkann, the President of Juventus owners Exor and heir to the Agnelli empire, personally called FIGC chief Gabriele Gravina to complain about ‘repeated refereeing errors.’

 

This is the latest stage in the angry protests that followed last night’s controversial 3-2 defeat to Inter, a game where Juve were down to 10 men for the entire second half. ...........

 

 

Refereeing designator Gianluca Rocchi already apologised publicly and confirmed sending off Pierre Kalulu was the incorrect decision, as Alessandro Bastoni simulated contact, but as it was a second yellow card offence, VAR could not intervene. ............

 

As Luciano Spalletti and players did not speak to the media last night, Juventus sent directors Giorgio Chiellini and Damien Comolli to give post-match interviews instead. ............

 

It is reported Elkann “expressed grave dissatisfaction for the repeated and numerous refereeing errors, urging the authorities to find efficient solutions to improve the overall football system, and guarantee the integrity and credibility of Italian football.”

 

In their complaints, Juventus have pointed out that this is only the latest in a long line of obvious errors that left clubs including Roma, Genoa, Lazio and Napoli furious. ............

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-elkann-call-protest-refereeing-errors/

[Socrates 10027]

FIGC & AIA tensions flare as Gravina calls Rocchi after Inter-Juventus incident

 

 

Tensions between Inter Milan and Juventus remain high following the controversial refereeing incidents in last night’s 3-2 victory for the Nerazzurri.

 

In the hours after the match, John Elkann, CEO of Exor, reportedly contacted Gabriele Gravina to express Juventus’ dissatisfaction with the officiating.

 

From the Bianconeri perspective, the handling of key moments during the game was deemed unacceptable.

 

In particular, the moment that saw Pierre Kalulu given a second yellow card after a dive by Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni.

 

Gravina, president of the FIGC, has since held discussions with refereeing chief Gianluca Rocchi to address the specific incidents. ...........

 

The situation unfolds against a backdrop of instability within the AIA. ............

 

FIGC president Gravina is also understood to have raised broader concerns with Rocchi, particularly regarding repeated simulations during Inter-Juventus.

 

According to FIGC sources, such behaviour risks influencing referees and increases the likelihood of mistakes, while also damaging the image of Italian football. ............

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/figc-aia-tensions-flare-as-gravina-rocchi/

[Socrates 10027]

“I’m proud of you all” – How Spalletti reacted to Inter-Juventus debacle

 

 

Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti was delighted with his players’ performance despite the defeat against Inter.

 

The Bianconeri were the victims of a glaring refereeing mistake that impeded their game. Match official Federico La Penna showed Pierre Kalulu a second yellow card for allegedly blocking Alessandro Bastoni, even though the replays proved that the latter dived, and should have been sent off for simulation, according to Luca Marelli.

 

For his part, Spalletti expressed his frustration when confronting the referee in the tunnel at half-time, accusing him of ruining Juve’s match. ...........

 

We know what Spalletti told his players in private following the big debacle at San Siro.

 

“I’m proud of you all,” said the Certaldo native to the heartbroken Bianconeri stars. ............

 

Despite being unfairly reduced to 10 men for the entire second half, Juventus defended valiantly and even threatened to take the lead on a few occasions.

 

And when Francesco Pio Esposito finally broke their resistance, they managed to drag themselves back by scoring a shocking equaliser through Locatelli. ............

 

With the fiery Derby d’Italia now in the rear-view mirror, the Bianconeri immediately turned their attention to Tuesday’s crucial meeting against Galatasaray in the first leg of the Champions League play-offs. ............

.

Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/im-proud-of-you-all-how-spalletti-reacted-to-inter-juventus-debacle/

Modificato February 16 da Socrates

[Socrates 10027]

Capello hits out at Bastoni and Chivu: ‘Two things struck me’

 

 

Fabio Capello was ‘upset’ to see Alessandro Bastoni’s ‘obvious simulation’ during Inter-Juventus but was also disappointed by Cristian Chivu, even if ‘his actions matter more than words.’ ............

 

“Two things struck me in particular. The first: a player like Bastoni, of international calibre and a key figure in our national team, cannot and, above all, must not behave like that,” wrote Capello.

 

“It was very upsetting for all the football fans to see him deceive the referee with an obvious simulation, especially since he was already booked and therefore risking a second yellow card.” ............

 

Inter coach Chivu refused to blame Bastoni during his post-match interviews, suggesting that Kalulu should have avoided putting his hands on his defender.

 

Before the game, however, the Inter coach had stated that he wouldn’t comment on a referee unless he heard a Serie A coach openly acknowledge a favourable referee decision.

 

“Second thing,” continued Capello.

 

“I know Chivu very well, as he was one of my players at Roma, but his words after the game deeply disappointed me. The Inter coach was not consistent with what he had said on the eve of the match, and in the end, he gave the impression of justifying what happened.

 

“More than his words, however, his actions matter. Chivu substituted Bastoni at halftime because he knew exactly that he would be at risk if he stayed on the pitch. I would have expected statements of a very different tone, especially after a victory.” ............

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/capello-hits-out-bastoni-chivu-2-struck-me/

[Socrates 10027]

De Rossi weighs in on Inter 3-2 Juventus controversy: ‘The stupidest VAR rule’

 

 

Genoa head coach Daniele De Rossi has had his say on the controversial decision to send off Pierre Kalulu during the Derby d’Italia between Inter and Juventus on Saturday evening, suggesting that the Frenchman fell victim to ‘the stupidest VAR rule’. ............

 

Refereeing designator Gianluca Rocchi has since admitted that a mistake was made, however, the decision was not able to be reviewed by VAR at the time as this was a second yellow card call and not a straight red.

 

There have already been suggestions that the IFAB will look to change this rule in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer. ............

 

De Rossi has not hid his frustrations with referees in recent weeks. Last weekend, his Genoa side were beaten 3-2 by Napoli, largely due to a 95th-minute penalty being awarded in favour of the Partenopei after a VAR review.

 

“I already talked last week about penalties. None of us know what a clear and obvious error is anymore. We no longer know if we have to step on a foot or just glance over it,” De Rossi said after the Napoli game.

 

“The football that I played in no longer exists. I must tell my players to keep their arms behind their backs and not go into tackles. I don’t know what sport I am coaching.” ............

 

 

“I was one of the first to celebrate the introduction of VAR and perhaps one of the first to realise that we will always be chasing each other on certain things,” De Rossi said.

 

“The only positive thing about what happened is that it was a match between Juve and Inter, which makes the whole world talk about it. It’s a game that the whole world watches and is massively important in Italy.

 

“The stupidest VAR rule, and I have been saying it for three years, is that a second yellow is not as serious as a straight red. It would be easy to change that in two days. Every second yellow, from tomorrow, should be reviewed.

 

“I think it would be difficult to find anyone who disagrees that a second yellow is not as serious as a red card after Saturday night, nowadays it changes a game even more than a goal or a penalty.”

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/de-rossi-weighs-in-on-inter-3-2-juventus/

[Socrates 10027]

Official: injured Canada star David ruled out of Juventus’ UCL game vs. Galatasaray

 

 

Juventus striker Jonathan David has been ruled out of tomorrow’s Champions League match against Galatasaray due to a groin injury. ............

 

The ex-Lille forward is not part of the Bianconeri squad list released just a few minutes ago.

 

According to Sky Sport Italia, David has been omitted due to a groin injury.

 

David had been subbed off in the second half of an away game at Inter on Saturday in what appeared to be a tactical substitution. ............

 

David started in the last eight Serie A games for Juventus. ............

 

Tomorrow, February, Tuesday 17, Juventus visit Galatasaray in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off.

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/injured-canada-star-david-juventus-galatasaray/

[Socrates 10027]

Galatasaray vs Juventus: Preview and Prediction

 

 

European nights in Istanbul rarely lack intensity, and Tuesday’s first-leg playoff promises exactly that. Galatasaray welcome an angry Juventus side to a stadium that has long been a fortress in continental competition, with both clubs eyeing a return to the UEFA Champions League Last 16. ............

 

Juventus, however, bring their own pedigree. They finished 13th in the league phase with 13 points, seven more than Galatasaray, and have reached the latter stages of Europe’s premier competition in ten of the last 12 seasons. Yet recent knockout history is less reassuring. The Bianconeri have lost five straight elimination ties since overcoming Atletico Madrid in 2019.

 

Under Luciano Spalletti, Juventus have become harder to break down. Since his arrival in November, they have gone unbeaten in five matches and kept clean sheets in their last three prior to the weekend. Spalletti’s broader Champions League record is solid too, with ten wins in his last 16 top-level European games across spells in Italy.

 

Still, inconsistency away from home remains a concern. Juventus collected just five points from four away fixtures in the league phase and have suffered domestic defeats in Cagliari, Bergamo, and Milan in recent weeks. Saturday’s dramatic 3-2 loss to Inter, in which they battled back after being reduced to ten men but ultimately fell short, underlined both their resilience and their fragility.

 

Tactically, this could become a fascinating battle between Galatasaray’s aggressive, front-foot approach at home and Juventus’s more measured, defensively structured system. The hosts will look to impose tempo early, fuelled by the atmosphere, while Juve may prioritise control and compactness, mindful that this is only the first leg.

Team News & Tactics

Galatasaray

 ............

 

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Cakir; Sallai, Bardakci, Sanchez, Jakobs; Torreira, Sara; Sane, Gundogan, Yilmaz; Osimhen

Juventus

Juventus travel to Istanbul with a relatively stable squad, though they remain without two recognised centre-forwards. Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik are both sidelined through injury, limiting Luciano Spalletti’s options in the number nine role. There are no suspension concerns for the Bianconeri ahead of this first leg.

 

Encouragingly for Juventus, key midfielder Khephren Thuram is expected to recover from the bone bruise that ruled him out of the recent Derby d’Italia, strengthening the midfield depth available for selection. In the absence of Vlahovic, Jonathan David is poised to lead the line, with Lois Openda likely to begin on the bench.

 

The Canadian forward’s movement and ability to stretch defensive lines make him a suitable fit for a system that prioritises structured build-up and controlled transitions. Supporting him will be Kenan Yildiz, who is expected to operate in an advanced role and carries particular motivation playing in Turkey.

 

Yildiz has been one of Juventus’s most dynamic performers in this season’s Champions League, creating 12 chances and completing 16 successful dribbles in the competition so far. Juventus are expected to set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Michele Di Gregorio will start in goal.

 

The defensive line should feature Pierre Kalulu at right-back, Gleison Bremer and Lloyd Kelly as the central defensive pairing, and Andrea Cambiaso occupying the left-back position. In midfield, Manuel Locatelli is likely to operate as the deeper-lying playmaker, partnered by Teun Koopmeiners in a central role tasked with linking defence and attack.

 

Further forward, Francisco Conceicao is expected to start on the right wing, Weston McKennie will operate in the central attacking midfield role, and Kenan Yildiz will feature on the left flank. Jonathan David should lead the line as the lone striker, responsible for spearheading Juventus’ attacking efforts in this crucial European tie.

 

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Koopmeiners; Conceicao, McKennie, Yildiz; David

Key Stats

• Galatasaray are playing their 200th European Cup match and have lost just once in their last 11 continental home fixtures.
• Galatasaray have scored in 17 of their last 18 European home games.
• Juventus have lost their last five Champions League knockout ties, failing to progress from any elimination round since 2019.
• The Bianconeri collected only five points from four away matches during this season’s league phase.
• Juventus have never won away to Galatasaray in the Champions League, failing to secure victory in any of their three previous visits to Istanbul.

Player to Watch

Kenan Yildiz

All eyes will be on Kenan Yildiz as Juventus return to Istanbul. The young Turkish forward has quietly become one of the Bianconeri’s most influential attacking outlets in Europe this season, and playing on home soil adds an extra layer of narrative to his performance.

 

Yildiz has already created 12 chances in this Champions League campaign while completing 16 successful dribbles,  a reflection of both his creativity and directness. Comfortable operating from the left but capable of drifting centrally, he thrives in one-versus-one situations and is fearless when driving at defenders.

 

Beyond the numbers, his intelligence between the lines makes him difficult to track. He often drops into pockets to link play before accelerating into space, a trait that could test Galatasaray’s defensive structure. In a tie that may be decided by moments rather than dominance, Yildiz has the profile of a player capable of producing something decisive.

Prediction

Galatasaray 1-1 Juventus

This first leg feels finely balanced. Galatasaray’s intensity at home and their recent attacking rhythm make them dangerous, particularly with Victor Osimhen leading the line and the crowd driving every phase of play. Juventus, however, bring greater structural discipline and European experience, and Luciano Spalletti’s side have shown they can absorb pressure and remain compact in hostile environments.

 

The tempo is likely to fluctuate, Galatasaray pushing early, Juve seeking control and transitions, but neither side will want to leave themselves exposed before the return leg in Turin. Expect moments of quality rather than sustained dominance.

.

Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2026/02/16/galatasaray-vs-juventus-preview-and-prediction/

[Socrates 10027]

Preview: Galatasaray vs Juventus - prediction, team news, lineups

 

 

Turkish heavyweights Galatasaray and Italian giants Juventus will commence their battle for a place in the Champions League’s last 16 when they meet in Istanbul on Tuesday evening.

 

Convening for the first leg of their playoff, Gala are into the knockout rounds for the first time in 12 years, while Juve have lost their last five elimination ties.

 

---

Match preview

 ............

 

In fact, Juve have failed to win any of their three away games against Galatasaray, while the Turin club have lost five consecutive knockout ties since beating Atletico Madrid over two legs back in 2019.

 

The Bianconeri wrapped up this season’s league phase with a 0-0 draw in Monaco, their final tally of 13 points placing them 13th in the table - seven spots above Galatasaray.

 

The two-time European champions therefore reached the Champions League’s latter stages for a 10th time in 12 seasons, but they will aim to go much deeper this year.

 

Current coach Luciano Spalletti has won 10 and lost just two of his last 16 games at Europe’s top level, across spells with Inter Milan, Napoli, and now Juve.

 

Undefeated in five since Spalletti's November arrival - keeping a clean sheet in the last three - Juventus may have proved tougher to beat, but they remain much more vulnerable on the road.

 

During the league phase, they only earned five away points from 12 available, while they have also lost in Cagliari, Bergamo and Milan since the middle of last month.

 

On Saturday night, Juve came away empty-handed from another classic Derby d’Italia at San Siro, suffering a late 3-2 defeat to old foes Inter.

 

Despite fighting back after controversially going down to 10 men, the Bianconeri were still beaten, denting their pursuit of a place in Serie A’s final top four.

 

Galatasaray Champions League form:

L L W W W L

Galatasaray form (all competitions):

W L W W W W

 

Juventus Champions League form:

L D W W W D

Juventus form (all competitions):

W D W L D L

 

---

Team News

Having praised the chemistry of his prolific front pair - ex-Inter man Icardi and former Napoli striker Victor Osimhen - it remains to be seen whether Okan Buruk risks starting both or takes a more cautious approach for this first leg. ............

 

Meanwhile, Juve are only missing injured strikers Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik, as key midfielder Khephren Thuram is expected to recover from a bone bruise that saw him sit out the Derby d’Italia.

 

In the ongoing absence of Vlahovic, Jonathan David should beat Lois Openda to selection as the Bianconeri’s lone striker, supported by main man Kenan Yildiz.

 

Set to play on home turf, the Turkish forward has created 12 chances and completed 16 dribbles in this season’s Champions League.

 

Galatasaray possible starting lineup:

Cakir; Sallai, Bardakci, Sanchez, Jakobs; Torreira, Sara; Sane, Gundogan, Yilmaz; Osimhen

 

Juventus possible starting lineup:

Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Koopmeiners; Conceicao, McKennie, Yildiz; David

 

We say: Galatasaray 2-1 Juventus 

Galatasaray have hit a purple patch, scoring at will while ruthlessly punishing their domestic opponents: they have now won nine and lost none of their Super Lig home fixtures.

 

While Juventus represent a step up in class, the Bianconeri have begun to leak goals and may succumb to intense pressure in front of a highly partisan crowd.

.

Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/galatasaray/champions-league/preview/galatasaray-vs-juventus-prediction-team-news-lineups_592083.html

Modificato February 16 da Socrates

[Socrates 10027]

Spalletti previews Juventus vs. Galatasaray: ‘No hiding, we want to win’

 

 

Luciano Spalletti has given his pre-match thoughts ahead of Juventus’s Champions League play-off round first leg against Galatasaray on Tuesday evening, has reflected on the controversial Derby d’Italia from Saturday night and has hinted at who could play at centre-forward for the Bianconeri in Istanbul.

 

Juventus finished the league phase in 13th place in the Champions League table, three points shy of a spot in the top eight. This means that they will have to play against Galatasaray over two legs in order to qualify for a spot in the round of 16. ............

 

Juventus have been linked with moves for both of Galatasaray’s strikers, Icardi and Osimhen.

 

“I don’t know who I prefer within my own team, I can’t imagine what my colleagues have to do,” he replied.

 

“For me, they are both very strong players with different characteristics, and together, their characteristics could make up the encyclopaedia of being a no.9.

 

“They are two strikers who know how to move inside the area, one creates chaos and the other knows how to capitalise on the chaos. We have to give them the ball as little as possible and keep it ourselves.”

 

And on the importance of tomorrow’s match, Spalletti said: “When it’s a double-header, both matches are important. Any hesitation can cost dearly. I’m proud of the reaction they showed in Milan and I wouldn’t change my team for anyone in the world.

 

“We have to play as a team and not suffer from the opponent’s pressure, play our football.” ............

 

“This can be a turning point for anyone. Openda has already had opportunities and others will have them. We’ll see about how and when together.” ............

 

“I’m convinced that McKennie has already shown it. He’s a player who has the characteristics to play with his back to goal and also knows how to turn things around in a short space of time because he’s fast and technical.

 

“He’s shown everything, and we’ve had all the possible problems that have led him to going from a right-back to a left winger. His willingness to help his teammates is an example for everyone.”

 

And on the rest of the squad, Spalletti added: “I don’t know because we’ve had one training session and we won’t train before tomorrow night. We have to evaluate Thuram and there are some other situations that we’re carrying.

 

“The players have to recover and we have no other choice. Doing the same things repetitively is tiring on the mind as well.” ............

 

“We have to be ready for Galatasaray’s selections. We’re anticipating decisions that will create confusion and chaos. We have to try and play our game and we can’t be intimidated by their ferocity.”

 

And when asked if a victory away in Istanbul will be ‘enough’ for Juventus to qualify for the Champions League round of 16, Spalletti said: “We know the difficulties we’re facing because we’ve watched Galatasaray’s games. They’re a strong team and we’ve come here deserving to play this game.

 

“We’re happy to play against opponents like this. We’ll try to play the game in the correct way and we will see what level of quality we’re at, because these stadiums show you what mental strength you need to have as well. We don’t want to hide, we want to play the game and try to win.” ............

 

“I don’t want to speak over the words of Elkann and the directors. I can say that Pierre is a good guy, a decent person and the fact that he had to take a dig from an opposition coach is something I never expected.

 

“This would put me in a position to talk about Inter’s players and I don’t want to do that.

 

“Simulation is an offence to football and what I have to do is raise the team to a level where simulation does not allow others to determine games for us. What happens isn’t important, but what you do when something happens to you is. We needed to reverse the situation.

 

“We have to improve if we don’t want to concede that goal there, and we wanted to go and score again immediately afterwards. These are tests of maturity. Tomorrow will be a test of our maturity.” ............

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-previews-juventus-vs-galatasaray-no-hiding-we-want-to-win/

Modificato February 16 da Socrates

[Socrates 10027]

McKennie: ‘We hope Galatasaray won’t boo Juventus because of Yildiz’

 

 

Weston McKennie has shared his thoughts ahead of Juventus’s upcoming Champions League play-off round tie against Galatasaray, has commented on his contract status and has joked that he hopes the passionate supporters in Turkey will go easy on the Bianconeri due to the presence of Kenan Yildiz.

 

McKennie joined head coach Luciano Spalletti for the customary pre-match press conference on Monday evening ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League play-off first leg against Galatasaray in Istanbul. ............

 

“It’s a really important game for us, we want to win every game because we are Juventus,” McKennie told the media during his pre-match press conference.

 

There have been suggestions that McKennie could play as a false nine on Tuesday evening given that Jonathan David, Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik are all unavailable.

 

“I’m a player who is always available for my team. I play where the coach wants me to play, even in goal,” the American said. ............

 

McKennie was also given an opportunity to share his thoughts after the controversial Derby d’Italia between Juventus and Inter in Serie A over the weekend, but preferred to keep his focus on the task at hand against Galatasaray.

 

“It’s a bit difficult when these things happen, We have to just focus on tomorrow and we’re only thinking about winning. We want to give our best.” ............

 

“He’s talked about that and I played here many years ago as well, so I know what the atmosphere and the fans are like. We hope they won’t boo us too much because of Kenan.”

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/mckennie-hope-galatasaray-wont-boo-juventus/

[Socrates 10027]

[Socrates 10027]

Referee La Penna reports death threats after Inter 3-2 Juventus mistake

 

 

Referee Federico La Penna has reported to the police and public prosecutor’s office after receiving multiple death threats in the aftermath of the Derby d’Italia between Inter and Juventus in Serie A over the weekend.

 

La Penna was the man in the middle for the fiery derby between Inter and Juventus in San Siro on Saturday evening. The game ended 3-2 in favour of the hosts, but the Bianconeri were left furious after Pierre Kalulu was wrongly sent off in the 42nd minute. ............

 

Refereeing designator Gianluca Rocchi later admitted that a mistake was made during the Derby d’Italia and said that La Penna was ‘distraught’ with his error.

 

Now La Penna has had to report to the police and the public prosecutor’s office after receiving multiple death threats online in the days following the Derby d’Italia. La Penna has reportedly received personal threats and threats to his family as well. ............

 

An investigation was immediately opened, the results of which are pending. ............

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/inter-3-2-juventus-la-penna-death-threats/

[Socrates 10027]

Osimhen denies disagreements with Spalletti: ‘He worked night and day’

 

 

Victor Osimhen praises Luciano Spalletti and denies disagreements with his ex-Napoli coach: ‘He worked night and day to convince us that we could win the Scudetto.’

 

Spalletti and Osimhen reunite in Istanbul this evening, when the Nigerian striker will lead Galatasaray against Juventus in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off. ............

 

“It will be exciting to face a top club. We know we have no room for distractions because any error against them can cost dearly, and then I’ll reunite with Spalletti,” the striker said.

 

Osimhen and Spalletti won the Serie A title at Napoli in 2022-23, but the coach left the Stadio Maradona in 2023, while the striker moved to Galatasaray a year later.

 

Osimhen explained what led to his departure from Naples, claiming that the Partenopei treated him “like a dog” before his exit in 2024.

 

“People said Spalletti and me argued, but it wasn’t true. I respect him so much,” Osimhen said. ............

 

“He slept for months in the Napoli training centre, working night and day to convince us that we could win the Scudetto. He brought Kim, Anguissa, Kvaratskhelia and me in our best condition, winning with the club that hadn’t done it for years.

 

“He was very demanding, but he also gave you so much in return. Certain coaches make you grow first as a man and then as a footballer.” ............

 

Under Spalletti, Osimhen scored 49 goals in 71 Napoli appearances across two seasons.

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/osimhen-no-disagreement-spalletti-day-night/

[Socrates 10027]