Juventus Faces Tough Test Against PSV in Champions League Playoff

TORINO, Italy — Juventus will host PSV Eindhoven on February 11, 2025, in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League knockout round playoff. The match at Allianz Stadium marks a critical juncture for both teams vying for a place in the Round of 16.

After defeating PSV 3-1 earlier in the group stage, Juventus Coach Thiago Motta acknowledged the evolving dynamics ahead of the pivotal matchup. ‘Tomorrow is a different game, and we’re focused on doing our job well,’ said Motta, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive performance from his squad.

Juventus, despite a strong start this season, struggled in Serie A, currently sitting fifth in the standings and finishing the group stage at the bottom with a record of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses. The team’s inconsistent performance raised concerns, especially following a recent 2-1 victory over Como, which, according to Motta, wasn’t reflective of their overall quality. ‘We were able to win a game without playing well. But that’s not the way; tomorrow we need a complete game to compete against a strong team,’ he stated.

Motta will have French forward Randal Kolo Muani available for selection, after his impressive run that includes five goals in three games. Meanwhile, injuries have sidelined players like Milik, Bremer, and Cabal, causing further complications for the team’s lineup.

On the other hand, PSV arrives in Torino with high morale, having finished the group stage with a record of 4 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses. Head Coach Peter Bosz expressed confidence in his squad, highlighting recent performances that include a 3-2 away victory over Liverpool. ‘We want to be competitive and get a positive result in Italy. We aim to disrupt their rhythm,’ Bosz said.

PSV sits second in the Eredivisie, sharing the lead with Ajax, which underscores their fighting spirit this season. With a well-rounded attack averaging 2 goals per game in the Champions League, they will pose a significant test for Juventus’ defense.

The stakes are high for both sides as they prepare for the clash at 3:00 PM ET. With Juventus struggling to find offensive rhythm and PSV displaying potent attacking capabilities, the match could set the tone for the second leg in the Netherlands.

This playoff marks a significant moment not only for both clubs but also for their respective journeys in this season’s Champions League. In a tournament where every goal counts, both teams are poised to leave it all on the field.