What Happened
Juventus faced a significant setback in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 playoffs against Galatasaray, suffering a 5-2 defeat in Istanbul. The match saw Juventus initially take the lead, but a disastrous second half led to their downfall, with Galatasaray capitalizing on defensive errors.
Why It Matters
This loss places Juventus in a precarious position as they prepare for the second leg at Allianz Stadium on February 25, 2026. With Galatasaray holding a commanding lead, Juventus must produce a remarkable comeback to advance in the tournament. Historically, Galatasaray has struggled in Italy, which may provide a glimmer of hope for Juventus as they aim to overturn the deficit.
What’s Next
As the second leg approaches, Juventus will need to regroup and demonstrate resilience, particularly after a disappointing performance against Como in Serie A. The team, under the guidance of coach Luciano Spalletti, will be looking to harness their previous fighting spirit displayed in earlier matches. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Juventus can turn the tide and secure a place in the next round of the Champions League.
