Prediction: Juventus vs Torino

Verdict: Juventus to win & both teams to score

Best Odds: 15/8

Bookmaker: bet365

Juventus are coming off a hard-worked win over Fiorentina, while Torino defeated Udinese away this past Wednesday. But recent form might not matter much, as both clubs are set to meet again in a new version of one of Italy’s oldest – and most intense – rivalries. Kick-off is at 19:45 BST this Saturday.

Juventus

The Old Lady once again look dominant at the domestic level. Their win against Fiorentina was absolutely deserved, and right now they sit near the top of the standings with 15 points after the first five matches. In fact, Juventus only trail Napoli since they have five goals less than them. But even if they are not at the top of the table, there is no question Massimiliano Allegri’s men once again appear as one of the favourites – if not the biggest candidate – to win the league once again. With Paulo Dybala on top form, the hard-working presence of Mario Mandzukic and Gonzalo Higuain, and a defensive line that has remained solid despite the departure of Leonardo Bonucci to AC Milan, The Old Lady are set to contend on every competition they face. And even though Torino will be a difficult opponent, Juventus have been nearly unbeateable at home. They have 10 wins and one draw in their last 11 Serie A matches at Allianz Stadium.

Team News

Allegri will have to deal with two absences for this game. Mattia De Sciglio (ankle) and Sami Khedira (knee) have been ruled out.

Marko Pjaca (knee) is doubtful as well. But his chances of playing are quite slim.

Torino

Torino have been one of the most pleasant surprises in the Serie A thus far. They rank fifth in the standings, and are one of five teams that are yet to lose a game after five weeks. And while maintaining that streak against Juventus appears to be a tough challenge, there is no question they are good enough to, at least, compete against Juve. In fact, the last time Juventus did not win at home in the Serie A was in last season’s derby against Il Toro. The performance of players such as Andrea Belotti, Salvatore Sirigu, and Marco Benassi will be key if Torino want to come away with something out of this game. And recent results have not been kind to them against Juventus, since they have only one win in their prior 21 meetings against The Old Lady. Will they break out of the slump and pull an upset this Saturday?

Team News

Torino do not have confirmed absentees ahead of this match. However, there are several elements that could end up missing the contest due to injury.

Joel Obi (muscle strain), Kevin Bonifazi (knee), Antonio Barreca (muscle) and Afriyie Acquah (undisclosed) are all doubtful, and would require late-fitness tests to determine their availability.

Key Factors to Consider

• Neither team has lost a game in the Serie A this season. Juventus have five wins, while Torino register three wins and two draws.
• Juventus have been excellent of late, as they have a 10W 1D 0L mark in their past 11 home contests.
• The last time these two clubs played at Juventus’ venue, the game ended with a 1-1 draw. It was the last time Juventus did not win at home in the Serie A.
• Juventus have a clear advantage on the recent head-to-head record, though, as they have 15 wins, five draws and just one defeat in the last 21 matches between both clubs.
• Torino have looked decent on the road in the current campaign, however, as they have two wins and one draw this term.

Conclusion

Both clubs are going through positive runs. But there is no question Juventus are the better side, and are a few steps above Torino on both recent form and overall strength of the squad.

Torino might be able to score since they have a talented attacking line. But Juventus will end up with the three points in this one.

Verdict: Juventus to win & both teams to score

Best Odds: 15/8

Bookmaker: bet365