Porto and Juventus go head-to-head in the fourth last 16 UEFA Champions League with the game set to be played at the Estadio do Dragao. Read on for our expert tips and predictions.
Both sides last clashed in the 2016/2017 campaign at this same last 16 stage. The Turin based side managed to win both legs emerging 3-0 winners on aggregate. Will we see a repeat of history in this doubleheader ?
Hopes of successful title defense in shambles
Porto emerged as the best top-flight side in Portugal football last season, winning their 29th and 17th Primeira Liga and Taca de Portugal titles respectively. However, it isn’t turned out to be the same case this season as they trail Sporting by seven points having played a game more. This gap could be attributed to their current league form as they’ve failed to secure a maximum point in three consecutive league games. How well will they fare against the Italian champions given their recent results?
The same could be said for the Old Lady as the Turin based side still trails the Milan clubs. They failed to capitalize on Milan’s recent loss, losing their own game over the weekend to Napoli. Insigne scored the only goal of the game as Gatusso’s boys celebrated a famous win. Now eight points from the summit, Pirlo will certainly be keen on going all the way in this competition. Will the Italian finally deliver the holy grail to the Bianconero?
Porto vs Juventus Team News
Juventus behave only Dybala as their only major injury casualty
Porto possible starting XI:
Marchesin; Sarr, Pepe, Leite, Manafa; Corona, Oliveira, Vieira, Mario; Marega, Anderson
Juventus possible starting XI
Szczesny; Cuadrado, Chiellini, Bonucci, Danilo; McKennie, Rabiot, Bentancur, Chiesa; Morata, Ronaldo
Porto vs Juventus Prediction: 1-2
Both sides are usually known to be the dominant side in their respective leagues but this season has proved to be a different case. Porto has been the worst of both sides with regards to their recent performances and we believe the Turin based side leaves Portugal with an advantage.