Juventus Look to Turn a Perfect Start into Another Win Despite a Long Injury List

Juventus have made the perfect start to their league phase, winning both games, scoring seven goals and conceding only one. Now they must keep that momentum going at the Allianz Stadium on Thursday with a squad missing many of its first-choice players.

Top of the table, with a thinner bench

Juventus sit first in the 36-team standings on six points, with a goal difference of +6. Rennes are 13th on four points, with a +1 goal difference. On paper, the gap is clear, but the hosts’ injury problems make this a more open contest than the table suggests.

Rennes’ steady start

Rennes have won one game and drawn one, with a win and a draw showing a team that has been difficult to beat early on. Their defence has been tight, and they have conceded just one goal in two matches, so they are unlikely to be swept aside easily.

Team news

Juventus will be without a considerable number of players. Federico Conceição is out with a shoulder injury, while Manuel Locatelli, Khephren Thuram and Kenan Yildiz are all sidelined through knee or foot problems. Konrad Grabara is also missing with a knee injury. Andrea Milik is unavailable, and Dan Rugani and Edon Zhegrova are not in the squad. Alexis Durmisi misses the game after a red card. Jérémie Ekhator is a doubt with a muscle problem.

Rennes face a late fitness check on Elye Lepaul, who is doubtful with an ankle problem.

Our prediction

Juventus have the stronger start to the group and the better goal record, and they should have enough quality to control the game at home. Missing so many regulars, they may be more pragmatic than usual, but their attacking record suggests they will still create enough chances. Rennes are capable of a tight game, yet we expect the hosts to keep their clean sheet and take the points.

Juventus 2-0 Rennes