The Daily Star Ireland
Juventus and Borussia Dortmund meet in a highly anticipated Champions League clash, bringing together two clubs with proud histories but contrasting recent fortunes. For Juventus, it has been five years since they last lifted the Scudetto, and their attempts to re-establish themselves as Italy’s dominant force have been complicated by a difficult transition after the era of Chiellini, Buffon, Barzagli, and Bonucci.
Their European struggles were highlighted last season when they were eliminated in the playoff stage by PSV Eindhoven. However, the start of the new domestic campaign has been promising, with back-to-back wins over Parma (2-0) and Genoa (1-0) ahead of a looming showdown with Inter Milan on matchday three.
Borussia Dortmund, on the other hand, are chasing the shadow of their 2012 Bundesliga title win. Last season’s run to the quarterfinals, capped by an inspired win over Barcelona, reminded Europe of their potential. Yet inconsistency remains their Achilles heel. Their league campaign began with frustration, as they squandered a two-goal lead in the final minutes to draw 3-3 with St. Pauli. They bounced back in emphatic fashion by defeating Union Berlin 3-0, but face another tricky test at Heidenheim before traveling to Turin.
Juventus Reinforcements and Key Absences
Juventus may not boast the same star power of their dominant years, but the squad remains formidable under Igor Tudor. The club secured Canadian striker Jonathan David to lead the line, and he has already begun repaying that faith with goals. Another notable arrival is Lois Openda, whose pace and versatility add a fresh dimension to the attack. Edon Zhegrova, despite his injury history, could prove a valuable option off the bench. The midfield saw some change with the departure of Douglas Luiz, but veterans like Kostić and McKennie continue to provide stability.
Injury concerns linger, with Juan Cabal and Arkadiusz Milik sidelined by knee issues, while Miretti and Conceição are also unavailable. Despite these setbacks, Juventus’s depth—particularly in attack—gives them confidence heading into this fixture.
Dortmund’s Squad and Form Under Kovac
Borussia Dortmund, under Niko Kovac, kept much of their core intact this summer. The only significant departure was Jamie Bynoe-Gittens to Chelsea, while reinforcements like Jobe Bellingham, Fabio Silva, Yan Couto, and Carney Chukwuemeka add youthful energy and depth. Jobe Bellingham, despite a shaky debut against St. Pauli, retains Kovac’s trust, while Serhou Guirassy has been in outstanding form, scoring three goals in his first two Bundesliga matches.
Defensive frailties, however, continue to plague Dortmund. Injuries to Nico Schlotterbeck, Niklas Süle, and Emre Can leave them thin at the back, with Fabio Silva also unavailable. This lack of defensive stability could be costly against Juventus’s rejuvenated frontline.
Prediction
Dortmund’s recent away record in Europe highlights their struggles, with five consecutive defeats on the road—each by a single goal. Juventus, meanwhile, have re-established their Allianz Stadium as a stronghold, winning five of their last seven home games.
A narrow Juventus victory looks most likely. Expect Jonathan David or Openda to make the difference, with Dortmund’s Guirassy providing resistance but lacking sufficient defensive cover to secure a result.
Prediction: Juventus 2 – 1 Borussia Dortmund
