Juventus enter this clash knowing only victory will keep their fate in their own hands. After suffering a 2–1 defeat to Napoli over the weekend, the Bianconeri need a response and quickly. Jonathan David’s late heroics against Bodo/Glimt kept them breathing in Europe, but Spalletti’s side still sit dangerously close to the drop zone in the new league phase. Their home form has been solid, unbeaten in ten straight at the Allianz, yet defensive lapses continue to haunt them. Two goals conceded per game in Europe is far from elite, and that could spell trouble if they don’t tighten up soon.

Still, Juventus have quality all over the pitch. Kenan Yildiz continues to impress with his fearless energy, while Teun Koopmeiners’ makeshift role at center-back highlights the squad’s adaptability amid injuries. The absence of Dusan Vlahović, Bremer, and Federico Gatti leaves gaps, yes, but Turin remains a fortress. Can Spalletti’s men rediscover their ruthless edge under pressure? It’s hard to say — yet this is the kind of night where Juve’s pedigree usually shines through.

Pafos, meanwhile, are enjoying their fairytale run. The Cypriot champions arrive in Italy unbeaten in seven matches, including a 2–2 thriller against Monaco where 38-year-old David Luiz rolled back the years with a vital goal. It’s been a remarkable campaign for a club that only entered European competition a few months ago. Manager Juan Carlos Carcedo has molded a resilient side, one that plays without fear or ego. They’re compact, energetic, and unafraid to play their game, even against bigger names.

Yet, as much as Pafos have earned respect, facing Juventus away is another beast entirely. They’ve drawn both previous away matches 0–0, showing discipline but lacking punch up front. The question is: can they sustain that resistance under the Turin lights? That said, this team has already defied expectations. With momentum on their side and confidence brimming, they won’t bow down easily. Expect a tense, physical affair and maybe, just maybe, a surprise twist before the final whistle. After all, the beauty of football lies in its unpredictability. And in nights like this, the numbers behind those Champions League Stats can only tell part of the story.

Juventus received encouraging news ahead of the crucial Champions League match against Pafos, as defenders Rugani and Bremer returned to training despite the team’s ongoing defensive emergency. Their presence helps offset Gatti’s absence and strengthens Luciano Spalletti’s options for a must-win clash at the Allianz Stadium. Maintaining momentum after the comeback victory in Bodo is essential to stay in contention for a place in the qualification play-offs. Source: Gazzetta.it