One of the most highly anticipated matches in the Round of 16 will take place on Tuesday when Juventus plays host to Tottenham Hotspur. These are two clubs that play totally different styles of soccer, and it will be interesting to see which side prevails.
We all know that Juventus is going to rely on its defense in this one. Juventus has been the best defensive club in the world over the last few seasons, and its defense has led it to many deep runs in the Champions League. Meanwhile, Tottenham has one of the most talented young strikers in the world in Harry Kane and will hope that he can create enough magic to see the Spurs through.
Don't miss the Champions League action from Allianz Stadium at 2:45 p.m. ET on Tuesday, February 13, 2018. Catch every moment of the match live on FS1.
Champions League Betting Odds at BookMaker.eu
Tottenham +340
Juventus -109
Draw +235
Over/Under 2, 2.5
Odds Analysis
Juventus allowed a total of two goals in its last five Group Stage matches, finishing in second place to Barcelona as a result. It was a comfortable second as only Barcelona was able to find offensive success against this back line.
Surprisingly, Juventus is facing a stiff challenge in Serie A play. They are one point behind Napoli for first place, and it’s essentially just those two clubs at this point.
As for Tottenham, they were not expected to survive the group of death, much less finish top of the table. The Spurs finished 5-1-0 in the Group Stage taking down Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund on their way to the top spot in the group.
In domestic play, things have not been as great. Tottenham is currently in fifth in the Premier League standings, one point out of an automatic spot in the Champions League next season. However, they are just two points out of third.
Key Injuries
Juventus will be without some of its key players for this match. Most importantly, Juan Cuadrado will be out for at least another month. Cuadrado is one of the most aggressive midfielders in the world and his attacking style suits Juventus well. Not having him against a team with the talent of Tottenham stings.
Additionally, the Italian club will not have Paulo Dybala or Blaise Matuidi. Both players are nursing injuries, but Dybala is at least expected to return to form soon.
Fortunately for the Spurs, this club is relatively injury-free. There are the typical nicks and cuts that happen over the course of the season, but nothing to list on the injury report.
Recent Form
Both of these teams have looked very good recently. It’s been over a month since Juventus conceded a goal at this point. Although they have not played the toughest teams in Serie A, keeping a clean sheet in five straight Serie A matches is impressive. Unsurprisingly, they have won every match.
It’s been some time since the Spurs have lost as well. Tottenham has scored impressive victories against Newcastle and Manchester United at home in recent weeks, but the club has drawn three straight away from home.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
Gianluigi Buffon is an ageless wonder. The legendary goalkeeper is 40, but he has barely slowed down, continuing to play at a high level after all these years. Juventus’ focus on defense means he doesn’t see many real tests per game, but he is always ready for the challenge.
Juventus has a 26-game unbeaten streak at home against European competition, so it’s very hard to predict a Tottenham upset. However, Tottenham has too much talent to be shutout. Harry Kane and Dele Alli have been great and are unlike anything Juventus has seen in Italy. The draw is good value in this one.
Champions League Odds: Tottenham 1, Juventus 1
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