Juventus host Benfica in Turin in a decisive Champions League clash; with Dusan Vlahovic sidelined, Jonathan David leads Juve. Benfica miss key forwards. Betting influence: Juventus slight favorites—consider a home win or Juventus + BTTS market given Benfica’s attacking threats and Juve’s creativity.
Juventus vs Benfica: Champions League showdown in Turin
Juventus welcome Benfica to the Allianz Stadium on Wednesday evening for a crucial Champions League meeting. Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 local time as both sides look to strengthen their position ahead of the final matchday of the group stage.
Team news and fitness updates
Juventus injuries and selection
Juventus have avoided fresh injury concerns but will be without Daniele Rugani (calf) and Dusan Vlahovic (thigh). With Vlahovic sidelined, Jonathan David is set to lead the line. Andrea Cambiaso and Juan Cabal face the risk of missing next week’s trip to Monaco if booked again, so they may be monitored carefully for cautions.
Jonathan David has been Juve’s main striker in recent fixtures, supported by Weston McKennie and Kenan Yıldız. Yıldız arrives in form, having provided assists in back-to-back Champions League games and tallying four assists in the competition so far.
Benfica injuries and setup
Benfica travel with a handful of absentees: Dodi Lukebakio (ankle), Alexander Bah and Richard Ríos are unavailable. Nicolás Otamendi is expected to start despite being one booking away from suspension. Vangelis Pavlidis will lead Benfica’s attack as the Greek striker seeks to replicate his domestic scoring form on the European stage.
Tactical preview: how both teams will approach the game
Juventus: control and creative supply
Juventus are likely to set up in a 4-2-3-1, looking to control midfield through Locatelli and Thuram while relying on Conceição and Yıldız to create chances for David. The absence of Vlahovic changes the focal point of the attack but allows David to operate with more central service and link-up play. Juventus’ balance between defensive solidity and creative wing play will be key.
Benfica: pace and direct threat
Benfica’s XI suggests a compact midfield with Barreiro and Aursnes shielding the defence and attacking responsibility spread to the wide players and Pavlidis. Despite domestic scoring form, Pavlidis needs more influence in Europe; Benfica will look to exploit transitions and aerial moments against Juve’s backline.
Jonathan David celebrated a goal during Juventus’ Serie A win at the Allianz Stadium on January 12, 2026. Benfica’s coach has stressed consistency ahead of the trip to Turin.
Probable line-ups
Juventus (4-2-3-1)
Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Thuram; Conceição, McKennie, Yıldız; David.
Benfica (4-2-3-1)
Trubin; Dedić, Otamendi, Araújo, Dahl; Barreiro, Aursnes; Prestianni, Sudakov, Schjelderup; Pavlidis.
Juventus vs. Benfica – where to watch on TV
The match will be shown live on TNT Sports 5 in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the United States. Football Italia will provide live coverage throughout the evening.
Betting implications and what punters should consider
Juventus are marginal favorites at home, boosted by squad depth and the creative form of Kenan Yıldız. Benfica’s attacking options remain dangerous despite absences. For punters: a Juventus win is a sensible primary market, while Juventus + Both Teams to Score (BTTS) could appeal given Benfica’s ability to trouble defences on the break. Monitor lineup confirmations for Cambiaso or Cabal (booking risk) and Otamendi’s status—suspension risk can affect defensive approach.
Juventus host Benfica in Turin on Wednesday night for a decisive Champions League clash, with...
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