Juventus host Benfica at the Allianz Stadium this Wednesday night for a pivotal UEFA Champions League league-phase clash, where both clubs are eager to claim vital points.
Luciano Spalletti’s squad, positioned 17th after earning nine points across their opening six games, confront a revitalised Portuguese outfit under José Mourinho’s guidance, who have staged a marked recovery from their poor initial run.
Sitting 28th on six points, Benfica carry forward momentum from back-to-back triumphs, setting up an enthralling matchday seven showdown.
Juventus team news
The Turin side approaches this game amid notable injury issues that will influence their tactics. Spalletti will still miss Dusan Vlahovic, who stays out with a tendon problem picked up in late November, unlikely to feature again until late March. Daniele Rugani persists in rehab from a calf issue, joined on the sidelines by Jonas Rouhi and Arkadiusz Milik.
Spalletti must navigate suspension risks too, as Andrea Cambiaso and Juan Cabal sit just one yellow card from sitting out the closing league-phase outing versus Monaco.
Kenan Yildiz continues as a key playmaker, registering three assists in the tournament to date. Reports suggest Spalletti plans three lineup tweaks post their frustrating 1-0 loss to Cagliari, possibly reinstating Francisco Conceicao for extra flair up top.
Juventus predicted lineup
Possible Juventus starting XI: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Thuram; Conceicao, McKennie, Yildiz; David
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8pm BST on Wednesday, 21st January.
How to watch Juventus vs Benfica?
Audiences from the United Kingdom can catch the UEFA Champions League group-phase action between Juventus and Benfica live on TNT Sports 5.
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