Prediction: Juventus vs Sporting

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 12/5

Bookmaker: 888sport

European football is back in our lives this week as all three major competitions get their quarter-final stage underway. This is the big countdown to the final in a few short months and today, we’ll be focusing on the UEFA Europa League. More specifically, we’ll be taking a look at what should be a fascinating clash of styles between Italian giants Juventus and Sporting Lisbon, one of Portugal’s finest.

Juventus

Another point deduction highlights that there’s still a long way to go for Juventus behind the scenes. They are easily one of the most powerful forces in Italian football, and across the globe, but that doesn’t mean a thing if they can’t stay on the straight and narrow. With veterans galore and turbulence off the pitch, it’ll be interesting to see how they navigate through the remainder of the season.

Team News

Jorge and Pogba are out with Di Sciglio and Vlahovic being doubtful, in addition to Paredes, who may not feature due to an argument with the boss.

Sporting Lisbon

They may not be in the title race mix in Primeira Liga this season, but that doesn’t mean Sporting Lisbon are having a terrible campaign – not by any stretch. Their primary focus has been on exploits in Europe and up to this point, they’ve been faring pretty well. Their most notable scalp came when they knocked Arsenal out on penalties in the last round, which should be enough to prove that they mean business.

Team News

Bellerin is a fitness concern for this one with Braganca, Paulinho, Cabral and Ugarte all being out, the latter due to suspension.

Factors to Consider

• Sporting have never beaten Juventus in European competition.
• Juventus have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Sporting have won three and drawn three of their last six games.
• Juventus have scored 10 goals and conceded five in their last six games.
• Sporting have scored 13 goals and conceded six in their last six games.

Conclusion

Juve are having to really manage their priorities right now and while they’ll be focused on this competition, restoring their reputation in Serie A is also going to be of vital importance. When it comes down to it, we’re very tempted to back Sporting given their ‘throw caution to the wind’ approach. Alas, in actuality, the more likely outcome is a competitive draw that leaves us all even heading into the second leg.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 12/5

Bookmaker: 888sport