Galatasaray had a difficult schedule in the final rounds of the UEFA Champions League. Juventus are another top-level test for them, but now neither side have any margin for error.
Galatasaray
Galatasaray have been excellent domestically, winning four consecutive home league matches in February with an aggregate score of 15:2. On the other hand, none of those opponents are close in quality to their UEFA Champions League rivals: in January they collected only one point in matches against Atlético Madrid (1:1) and Manchester City (0:2). The side allowed 3.21 xGA across those two matches, repeatedly leaving spaces open in their own half.
Juventus
After a poor run in Serie A and the Coppa Italia, where Juventus have gone three matches without a win, the Turin club will approach the UEFA Champions League knockout round in an aggressive frame of mind. They managed to avoid defeat against SS Lazio (2:2), and the derby with Inter Milan (2:3) was marred by a serious refereeing mistake that led to Pierre Kalulu being sent off before half-time. At the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, the hosts produced 0.92 xG and almost claimed a draw; they showed strong character.
Galatasaray vs Juventus Prediction
They are already used to playing without Dušan Vlahović up front, as the injured Serb has been replaced effectively by Jonathan David. The side have scored at least two goals in three of their last four matches, and Galatasaray’s unstable defence should not pose a serious problem for them.
