JAKARTA - Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti said his squad would try to dampen Galatasaray's aggressiveness when they meet in the first leg of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League 16-team playoff at the Ali Sami Yen Sports Stadium, Istanbul, Wednesday (18/2) early morning WIB.
"We have to be able to withstand Galatasaray's initial aggressiveness and display our style of play. We are trying to control the ball because it is the key to achieving a positive result," Spalletti said, quoted from Juventus' official website.
Spalletti confirmed that his players are in top condition and ready to show their best performance at home to Galatasaray.
The Italian tactician also emphasized that the victory over Galatasaray was important after being defeated by Inter Milan 2-3 in the 2025/2026 Italian League, Sunday (15/2) WIB.
"There's no need to raise expectations, we just have to show that we deserve to be at this level of competition. This game can be a turning point," said Spalletti.
Meanwhile, Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie said that he and his teammates would try hard to conquer Galatasaray at their home.
McKennie ensured Juventus carried out the mission of revival after being defeated by Inter Milan, although he believed it was not easy because Galatasaray had fanatic supporters who often terrorized the opponent's mentality.
"The fans here (Istanbul - ed) always show an amazing atmosphere. We hope that with the presence of Yildiz (Juventus midfielder from Turkey Kenan Yildiz - ed), they won't give us too many whistles," he said.
The American footballer also stated that he was ready to cause chaos in Galatasaray's defense line and give his opponent difficulties. "I hope it can work," said McKennie.
If he wins the match, Juventus' chances of qualifying for the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League 16-team round will be open because the second leg will be played at the Juventus Stadium, Turin, Thursday (26/2) early morning WIB.
Based on records from Transfermarkt, the last time the team nicknamed the Old Lady faced Galatasaray was in the 2013/2014 UEFA Champions League group stage.
In the two meetings in Group B, Juventus failed to win any victory by winning one loss (0-1) and one draw (2-2).
If they qualify for the 16-team Champions League 2025/2026, Juventus will face Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur in that phase.
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