Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
Five months after their group-stage opener in Turin, where Juventus secured a victory over PSV Eindhoven (3:1), the two sides meet again in the Champions League knockout rounds. While the Dutch side have shown improvements, Juventus still hold a clear advantage in terms of squad quality and experience.
Juventus
Juventus comfortably navigated the final phase of the group stage despite a defeat to Benfica (0:2), which did not prevent them from making the top 24. Since then, they have bounced back impressively with back-to-back wins over Empoli (4:1) and Como (2:1), generating 3.33 xG across those two Serie A matches. Juventus seem to have adapted well to defensive absences, with Timothy Weah stepping in for the injured Pierre Kalulu, while new signings Renato Veiga and Lloyd Kelly have also slotted into the squad.
PSV Eindhoven
PSV Eindhoven, on the other hand, edged a victory over a heavily rotated Liverpool side (3:2) in the final round of the Champions League group stage. However, they have since lost momentum domestically, squandering their lead over Ajax. Their draw with Willem II (1:1) on Saturday marked their fourth match in the last five without a win. To make matters worse, manager Peter Bosz is dealing with multiple injury absences, further limiting his options.
Juventus vs PSV Eindhoven Prediction
Juventus’ winter signing Randal Kolo Muani has made an instant impact, scoring five goals in his first three appearances for the club. Back in September, PSV Eindhoven conceded three times in Turin by the start of the second half, recording 2.57 xGA in that game. Given their recent struggles and defensive vulnerabilities, another win for Juventus looks likely.
