The Daily Star Ireland
Two European giants face off at the Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid host Juventus in a mouth-watering UEFA Champions League group-stage clash. Los Blancos have been dominant under Xabi Alonso, while the Bianconeri are still searching for consistency after a mixed start to their European campaign. With both sides boasting elite attackers and contrasting tactical styles, this promises to be a high-quality contest under the Madrid lights.
Match Preview
Real Madrid enter this fixture in outstanding form and as one of the clear favorites to lift the trophy again. After a perfect start to their group campaign—a 2-1 win over Marseille and a 5-0 demolition of Kairat Almaty—the reigning champions sit top of their group. Domestically, they lead La Liga by two points over Barcelona, with Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior driving their relentless attack. Their only blemish this season was a chaotic 5-2 defeat to Atlético Madrid, quickly followed by a 3-1 win against Villarreal to steady the ship.
Juventus, meanwhile, are still finding their rhythm in Europe. The Italian side played out a dramatic 4-4 draw with Borussia Dortmund, rescuing a point deep into stoppage time, before another 2-2 stalemate at Villarreal. In Serie A, the Bianconeri sit fifth—three points behind leaders Inter—after a promising start gave way to a run of three straight draws. A result at the Bernabéu would be a major statement of intent for Igor Tudor’s men, who are aiming for redemption after last season’s round-of-16 exit to PSV.
Team Form & Recent Results
Real Madrid (Last 5 Matches): W–L–W–W–W
- Goals Scored: 16
- Goals Conceded: 7
- Clean Sheets: 2
Juventus (Last 5 Matches): D–D–W–D–L
- Goals Scored: 9
- Goals Conceded: 10
- Clean Sheets: 1
Real Madrid’s attacking record is unmatched in Europe, averaging nearly 3.5 goals per game this season. Juventus, however, have drawn four of their last five across competitions, struggling to hold leads against top-tier opponents.
Head-to-Head Record
- Last 5 Meetings: Real Madrid 3W – 1D – 1L
- Most Recent Meeting: Real Madrid 3–1 Juventus (2023/24 Champions League)
- Aggregate Goals (Last 5): Real Madrid 12 – 7 Juventus
Real Madrid have dominated recent encounters, particularly at home, where Juventus have not won since 2008. Their previous five clashes have all featured over 2.5 goals, making this matchup a consistent source of entertainment.
Lineups, Injuries & Team News
Real Madrid (expected lineup):
Lunin – Valverde, Nacho, Tchouaméni, Fran García – Camavinga, Kroos – Bellingham – Vinícius Jr., Mbappé, Rodrygo
Unavailable: Carvajal (injured), Rüdiger (injured), Mastantuono (doubtful)
Doubtful: Mendy, Huijsen, Alexander-Arnold
Key Players:
- Kylian Mbappé: 9 goals and 2 assists in La Liga, 5 goals in the Champions League.
- Vinícius Jr.: 5 goals and 4 assists domestically, continues to shine in big matches.
- Jude Bellingham: Back from injury and integral in linking midfield to attack.
Juventus (expected lineup):
Szczęsny – Gatti, Danilo, Alex Sandro – Cambiaso, Thuram, Locatelli, Rabiot, Yildiz – Vlahović, Chiesa
Unavailable: Bremer (injured), Cabal (injured), Miretti (injured), Milik (not registered)
Key Players:
- Dusan Vlahović: 2 goals and 1 assist in Serie A, rediscovering form.
- Kenan Yildiz: Emerging star with 4 assists across competitions.
- Khéphren Thuram: A commanding presence in midfield, key to disrupting Real’s rhythm.
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Real Madrid’s Approach:
Under Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid blend structured possession with devastating pace in transition. Tchouaméni anchors the midfield, allowing Bellingham to push forward and link play. The front trio of Mbappé, Vinícius, and Rodrygo offers explosive speed and movement, often overwhelming slower defenses. Expect Madrid to dominate possession (typically around 65%) and press aggressively high up the pitch.
Juventus’ Strategy:
Tudor’s Juventus rely heavily on compact defensive organization and swift counters. Rabiot and Thuram provide the muscle in midfield, while Chiesa and Yildiz look to exploit the wings. Without Bremer, the defense could be exposed against Madrid’s pace. Expect Juventus to sit deep early, aiming to frustrate the hosts and capitalize on set pieces or quick breaks led by Vlahović.
Key Tactical Duels:
- Mbappé vs Danilo: The Frenchman’s pace could stretch Juve’s veteran defender.
- Bellingham vs Thuram: A physical midfield clash likely to dictate tempo.
- Vinícius vs Gatti: Madrid’s Brazilian winger will look to isolate his marker one-on-one.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
1X2 Odds: Real Madrid 1.50 | Draw 4.20 | Juventus 6.25
Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 1.70 | Under 2.05
Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes 1.85 | No 1.95
Top Betting Picks:
- Real Madrid to Win & Over 2.5 Goals (1.95): Consistent home dominance and attacking form.
- Both Teams to Score (1.85): Juventus can strike on the counter.
- Mbappé Anytime Goalscorer (1.75): Europe’s most in-form forward.
Quick Facts (Featured Snippet):
- Venue: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid, Spain
- Kickoff: Wednesday, October 29, 2025 – 21:00 CET / 20:00 GMT
- Competition: UEFA Champions League 2025/26
- Broadcast: TNT Sports, Paramount+, DAZN
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Live Broadcast: TNT Sports (UK), DAZN (Europe), Paramount+ (US)
Kickoff: Wednesday, October 29, 2025 – 21:00 CET
Prediction: Real Madrid vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League 2025/26
Real Madrid’s attacking trio is in devastating form, and their home record in the Champions League remains unmatched. Juventus have the tactical structure to make it competitive, but their defensive absences and recent form could be costly. Expect a lively, open contest with goals on both sides — but Madrid’s superior finishing should decide it.
Final Prediction: Real Madrid 3–1 Juventus
Best Bet: Real Madrid to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
Alternative Value: Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
Madrid’s firepower, led by Mbappé and Vinícius, should prove too much for Juventus, as the defending champions continue their march toward knockout-stage qualification.
