Juventus have to overturn a 1-0 deficit as they host Lyon in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg on Friday.
Juventus won their ninth straight Serie A title despite a very inconsistent end to the season. The Old Lady won two of their final eight matches, losing three of their last four. Maurizio Sarri’s side beat Lazio 2-1 before a 2-1 defeat at Udinese.
They responded with a 2-0 win against Sampdoria before losing 2-0 at Cagliari and 3-1 against Roma at home. Gonzalo Higuain opened the scoring in the 5th minute but it was a deserved defeat.
Argentine attacker Paulo Dybala is doubtful but could recover in time to feature which will be a big boost for the Italian champions. Maurizio Sarri is likely to bring centre-back Matthijs de Ligt, left-back Alex Sandro, midfielders Miralem Pjanic and Rodrigo Bentancur, winger Juan Cuadrado and Ronaldo back into the starting side here.
Olympique Lyon on the other hand finished 4th and were knocked out of the Coupe de France semi-finals after a 5-1 defeat against PSG before returning to league action with a 1-0 defeat at Lille.
Lyon played four friendlies after the break. They beat Nice 1-0, lost 2-0 against Rangers, beat Celtic 2-1 and defeated Gent 3-2. Lyon battled hard against PSG in the French League Cup final on Friday. The match went to a penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw following extra time, Bertrand Traoré’s effort saved and PSG scoring all six spot kicks.
Lyon left-back Youssouf Kone is injured with right-back Kenny Tete and centre-back Marcelo doubtful. Midfielder Lucas Tousart scored in the first leg but has been sold to Hertha Berlin. Rudi Garcia has been playing with three at the back which could continue here.
Juventus ran out of steam in Serie A but won another title.. The Old Lady have had six days to rest for this match which should see the side refreshed and ready to fight for the Champions League. Lyon had a solid workout against PSG which should provide confidence for the trip to Italy. They have to find a balance with the 1-0 advantage surely on their minds.