Juventus and Borussia Dortmund open their Champions League campaign in Turin, and softfootball understands that it’s a fixture that brings back memories of the 1997 final. Back then, Dortmund shocked the Italians to lift the trophy. Since then, though, Juventus have usually had the upper hand in meetings between these two even though they might not be strong favourites for this particular fixture with a 2-2 draw predicted in the game’s official preview.
Juve return to the UCL after finishing fourth in Serie A last season. Their home form in Europe wasn’t great last year, just two wins in the group stage, but they’ll be buzzing after Saturday’s crazy 4-3 win over Inter. That kind of game does a lot for confidence.
Dortmund come in unbeaten in four matches this season. They beat Heidenheim 2-0 at the weekend and look sharper than they did at the start of last year’s campaign. They’ve also made a habit of starting well in Europe, winning three of their last four opening group games, and head coach Nico Kovac issued a warning to Juventus that they are ready to test themselves.
Juventus posted a video earlier showing their readiness for these encounters. They also revealed via their official X account that the team will be donning their black third kit.
Watch the video below:
Juventus will be without Arkadiusz Milik and Francisco Conceição, two useful attacking options, while Dortmund travel without ex-Juve man Emre Can.
Kenan Yıldız is one to keep an eye on for the Italians. The 19-year-old has a knack for scoring early, often before the break. For Dortmund, Maximilian Beier has quietly put together some solid numbers, scoring or assisting in his last two games.
Juventus’ official starting XI revealed via the team’s official X account:
Dortmund’s official starting XI revealed via the team’s official X account:
This game is a hard one to call. Juventus has a home advantage but tends to be inconsistent in Europe. Dortmund usually brings energy early in the competition. Goals feel likely. A draw wouldn’t shock anyone.
