Prediction: Juventus vs Atletico Madrid

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 11/5

Bookmaker: bet365

Domestic football made its return this past weekend, and now, we’re gearing up for the UEFA Champions League’s final few group stage games before we head into the knockout stage. Some of the best teams in all of world football will be giving everything they’ve got in an attempt to finish in the top two, whereas others will just be happy to drop down into the Europa League. Today, we’re taking a look at two of the favourites to win the whole thing – Juventus and Atletico Madrid.

Juventus

Juve have been putting the necessary pieces in place for them to challenge at the top of European football, having already dominated Serie A for a number of years now. They’ve been in two Champions League finals in their recent history, with Barcelona and Real Madrid coming out on top in both. The hope is that the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo could prove to be the difference maker this time around, but it all depends on how the team works as a cohesive unit.

Team News

Ronaldo will be fresh for this game after not playing at the weekend, with Matuidi being tipped to return. Higuain and Dybala will battle for a spot in the starting XI.

Atletico Madrid

Atletico have had a rough ride over the course of the last few weeks, and while they’re still riding high both in Europe and domestically, many still wonder whether or not they’re good enough to take that next step towards the Champions League title. They’ve featured in two finals in the last few years, being beaten by locals rivals Real Madrid on both occasions, and the one benefit they’ll have this time around is that they’re viewed more as dark horses than outright contenders.

Team News

Niguez and Partey are both tipped to return after missing the game against Granada through suspension. Gimenez is still a big doubt, with Felix expected to feature after returning at the weekend.

Factors to Consider

• In the reverse fixture, Juventus and Atletico Madrid drew 2-2.
• Juventus have won five and drawn one of their last six games.
• Atletico Madrid have won two, drawn three and lost one of their last six games.
• Juventus have scored ten goals and conceded four in their last six games.
• Atletico Madrid have scored nine goals and conceded six in their last six games.

Conclusion

Both sides are well aware of the fact that they’re all but definitely through to the knockout stage of the Champions League, and this game is all about establishing that top spot in the group. However, while both sides have enough in their locker to get the job done, we don’t think either will secure all three points. It’s going to be a pretty tight and entertaining encounter, with both getting on the scoresheet, but at the very least the two sides will be happy to get through the game without a defeat on their record.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 11/5

Bookmaker: bet365