The Champions League knockout playoffs kick off in Istanbul on Tuesday evening, as Galatasaray takes on Juventus at RAMS Park. This matchup marks the first meeting between the two clubs since 2013, when Wesley Sneijder scored a dramatic 85th-minute winner, propelling Galatasaray past Juventus in the round of 16.
Since then, Juventus has reached the final twice but has yet to secure the prestigious title, struggling to make a lasting impression in European competitions over the past decade. On the other hand, Galatasaray has not advanced to the Champions League round of 16 since the 2013-14 season. However, the Turkish side has invested significantly in their squad and has built a team more than capable of competing with Europe’s elite.
In the group stage, Galatasaray managed a respectable ten points, avoiding elimination, but their form dipped as they went winless in their final four matches. Juventus has seen better results lately, winning three of their last five games, but they will need to overcome a disappointing 3–2 loss in the recent Derby d’Italia against Inter Milan.
Kick-off is scheduled for 5:45 p.m. GMT (12:45 p.m. ET), and fans can watch the match on various platforms, including TNT Sports in the UK and Paramount+ in the United States.
Both teams are working through injuries and suspensions. Galatasaray’s squad remains relatively healthy aside from goalkeeper Enes Emre Büyük, while they must contend with the suspensions of Mario Lemina and nine-month banned Metehan Baltaci. Okan Buruk is expected to maintain his potent strike partnership of Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi, with new arrivals Noa Lang, Yáser Asprilla, and Sacha Boey also in the mix.
Juventus, meanwhile, will have Pierre Kalulu available after a controversial sending off last weekend, and Khephren Thuram may return after missing the Inter match. With Dušan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik sidelined, Jonathan David is stepping up as a key player in the squad.
As both teams approach this crucial encounter, Galatasaray’s previous encounters in Istanbul against Juventus have been challenging for the Italians. This match promises to deliver an intense atmosphere, with Galatasaray eager to secure a favorable result before heading to Turin for the return leg. Given their current forms, a tense but competitive match is on the horizon.
The score prediction for this clash leans toward a stalemate, with both teams potentially sharing the spoils at 1–1. Fans will be treated to an exceptional display of football, as both clubs strive for a critical advantage in the knockout stage of the Champions League.