It is quite remarkable that despite mediocre play, both Italian teams are very much alive in their respective groups.
Juventus saw its 49 game unbeaten streak against Italian squads come to an end this past weekend against Inter Milan. But Italy's top team still has all the requisite pieces to put together a better UCL campaign then they have thus far.
Their comeback against Chelsea from a 2-0 deficit was impressive, but they have yet to hold a lead in this tournament which at some point could come back to haunt them. If Juventus manages to win, they could be ahead of Chelsea or one point behind them pending on the result of the other Group E match. Another draw or loss, could start to create some distance for them that could be insurmountable in the concluding matches.
More importantly, they know that they will be facing a team in a do-or-die situation. Nordsjaelland needs to win in order to avoid risking elimination from the Champions League. They will head to Italy ready to attack. The Danish side remains in third place in the domestic league, but the road has not been friendly to them. They have won just two of six away games and have lost three in the process.
Prediction: Juventus SHOULD win this match, but somehow I think they will continue to disappoint and settle for a 1-1 draw.
Start Time: 2:45 p.m. EST