Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
On Wednesday, Real Madrid and Juventus meet in the Champions League for the first time since their unforgettable 2017/18 quarter-final clash — when Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic bicycle kick in Turin was followed by Juventus nearly pulling off a miraculous comeback at the Bernabéu. This reunion of European giants promises to be just as dramatic.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid enter the match in top form ahead of their first El Clásico of the season. Following their 2:5 collapse in the Madrid derby against Atlético Madrid, they have responded with three straight wins by a combined score of 9:1. The biggest of those came away to Kairat (5:0), where Kylian Mbappé netted a hat-trick to move clear at the top of the Champions League scoring charts (5 goals). Xabi Alonso may opt for some rotation ahead of the Barcelona clash, but both Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes are expected to be available from the bench if needed.
Juventus
Juventus, on the other hand, arrive in disarray. Their defensive leader Gleison Bremer is sidelined with a knee injury, leaving a huge gap at the back. The Italians are winless in six matches across all competitions, their latest setback coming in Serie A against newly promoted Como (0:2), where they were outplayed and outshot (0.88-1.46 in xG). This trip to Madrid could be Igor Tudor’s last chance to save his job, with reports suggesting the club’s hierarchy are already lining up a replacement.
Real Madrid vs Juventus Prediction
When these sides met at the Club World Cup this summer, Real Madrid edged a cagey affair (1:0). But at the Bernabéu, in front of their fans and with El Clásico looming, they will be fully motivated to deliver a commanding performance.
