After difficult beginnings to their UEFA Champions League journeys, Juventus and Benfica arrive at matchday seven carrying renewed momentum.
Both sides are on two-game winning runs in the competition, turning what once looked like troubled campaigns into genuine qualification pushes.
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Juventus Eye Consistency on Home Soil
Juventus failed to secure a win in their first four UCL outings this season, but successive victories against Bodø/Glimt and Pafos have reignited belief in Turin.
Those results have lifted the Bianconeri into a strong position, holding a three-point cushion over Benfica and the chasing group as the knockout picture begins to take shape. Another victory would mark their first three-game UCL winning streak since 2021.
Despite a narrow domestic setback against Cagliari at the weekend, confidence remains high at the Allianz Stadium. Juventus have not lost a home match since March, and their recent performances suggest they are well equipped to bounce back.
Goals have flowed freely on home turf, with at least two scored in five of their last six matches there. Notably, Juventus have made a habit of coming alive after the break, with almost all of their Champions League goals this season arriving in the second half.
Benfica’s Revival and Historical Edge
Benfica’s European campaign appeared all but over after four straight defeats, yet back-to-back 2-0 wins — including a statement result against Napoli — have put the Portuguese giants firmly back in contention.
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Those clean-sheet victories give them a rare opportunity to record three consecutive UCL wins without conceding for the first time in decades.
Their away form adds to the optimism, with seven wins from their last nine competitive matches on the road. History also favours the visitors, as Benfica have dominated this fixture in recent years, winning seven of nine meetings overall and all three Champions League clashes since the 2022/23 season.
While Juventus tend to finish strong late in matches, Benfica’s attacking threat away from home is undeniable, scoring multiple goals in eight of their last nine away fixtures.
With both teams showing a clear tendency to strike after half-time and plenty at stake in the standings, this clash promises to be finely balanced and potentially decisive in shaping their European futures.
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Expected Starting XI by Luciano Spalletti’ for Benfica match according to Sky Sport :