Juventus vs Athletico Madrid UCL R16: Can Juve overcome the 2 goal deficit?
Juventus were left flattered as they lost 2-0 away to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Round of 16 clashes in the UEFA Champions League. The Old Lady from Turin has been dominating the Serie A and is yet to be defeated in the league but their champions league story isn't the same.
The purchase of Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid was a major boost to their hopes of finally lifting the champions league, but things have not turned out the way it was expected. Even the best player in the history of the UCL has not been able to deliver this time around.
Ronaldo has been firing in the league but is enduring his poorest Champions League season ever. He just has a single goal and 2 assists to his name in the competition so far. The Juventus team have high hopes of a comeback as they will be playing in their backyard and will have the support of their fans who will make the life of the away team difficult.
Athletico Madrid did not start their UCL journey in a great way as they were defeated by Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in the group stage which does give a little hope to the Old Ladies and their fans. Their form in La Liga hasn't been too impressive either as they trail Barcelona by 7 points on the table. However, their defense is the major reason for their success this term and Juve needs to put at least 2 goals past them to have a chance to progress further.
The Ronaldo factor is another plus point, the Portuguese forward has always risen to the occasion whenever his team has needed him. He has single-handedly turned ties in the champions league, the famous comeback of Real Madrid inspired by a Ronaldo hattrick which saw them overturn the 2-0 deficit to Wolfsburg.
The fact that Manchester United, as well as Ajax, have already made a great comeback and have sent the likes of PSG and Real Madrid out of the UCL also gives great hope and at the same time, a belief to the Juve fans that a comeback can be on the cards.
While we continue to examine their chances, it will take 90 minutes of action to finally judge who will go through on Tuesday.