The reigning champions of Portugal and Italy lock horns in the Champions League last 16 ties this week. Porto takes on Juventus at Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday with kickoff at 11 pm.
The last 16 ties are renewing old acquaintances reunited in the fold at the port city. Both sides will be looking to renew their current form so far, rather than their unpredictable domestic displays.
It marks nearly two decades since Ronaldo left his homeland to signup for Manchester United under Alex Fergusson. Two decades later, he returns home with over 750 career goals. However, the former Sporting academy graduate experienced only a single win in their last six meetings with Porto in his long and accomplished career.
Furthermore, Ronaldo is seeking his sixth European crown this season and comes in contact with a long-time friend in Porto defender Pepe. Other new acquaintances will be Danilo and Alex Sandro, who played for the club.
Andrea Pirlo continues searching for consistency for the side. A clinical 3-0 victory at Camp Nou in their last champions league outing marked their fourth straight win in the competition. It marks Juve’s seventh consecutive year while remaining unbeaten in five previous matches against their Wednesday opponents.
Ahead of their clash this Wednesday, Porto are yet to concede a goal at home in the Champions League this season.
Porto vs. Juventus Head to Head
Both sides have two games against each other with Juventus taking two wins while Porto without a win. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
FC Porto 2-2 Boavista
Sporting Braga 1-1 FC Porto
Sporting Braga 2-2 FC Porto
Belenenses SAD 0-0 FC Porto
FC Porto 2-0 Rio Ave
Away
Napoli 1-0 Juventus
Juventus 0-0 FC Porto
Juventus 2-0 Roma
Inter 1-2 Juventus
Sampdoria 0-2 Juventus
Porto Team News
Sergio Conceicao faces several absentees in the full-back positions, with Nanu and Zaidi Sanusi remaining on the sidelines. The same case applies to midfielder Otavio, who joins the treatment table. Jesus Corona returned from suspension last weekend and will maintain a starting position in midfield.
Juventus Team News
Full back Cuadrado sets to remain on the sidelines after picking a muscle injury during their clash with Napoli last weekend. Other absentees ahead of the trip include Arthur, Paulo Dybala, and Aaron Ramsey. Leonardo Bonucci might feature alongside experienced Giorgio Chiellini in place of Mathis De Ligt.
Prediction and Odds
The Bianconerri have shown vulnerabilities of late and face against a Porto side with an impressive record.
Juventus Win
Both Teams to Score
Goals Over 2.5
