Torino vs Juventus: Serie A Derby della Mole Preview & Prediction
The Derby della Mole is set to light up Turin this weekend as struggling Torino host Thiago Motta’s Juventus in a crucial Serie A clash. With Juventus pushing for a top-four finish and Torino desperate to turn their season around, this match promises high stakes and intense rivalry.
Torino Preview: Struggling for Consistency
Torino’s season has been a rollercoaster under new manager Paolo Vanoli. After a promising start, they’ve faltered, winning just once in their last ten matches. Their recent goalless draw against Parma highlighted their struggles in attack, with Che Adams’ wonder strike against Fiorentina being their only bright spot in weeks.
Vanoli’s side lacks creativity and firepower, especially with key players like Perr Schuurs and Duvan Zapata sidelined. Samuele Ricci, their midfield engine, is also a doubt due to a thigh injury. Torino’s defensive solidity has kept them afloat, but they’ll need more to challenge a Juventus side that’s hard to break down.
Predicted Torino XI (3-4-2-1):
- Goalkeeper: Milinkovic-Savic
- Defenders: Vojvoda, Maripan, Coco
- Midfielders (Wing-backs): Lazaro, Sosa
- Central Midfielders: Ilic, Ricci
- Attacking Midfielders: Vlasic, Karamoh
- Striker: Adams
Juventus Preview: Unbeaten but Unconvincing
Thiago Motta’s Juventus remain unbeaten in Serie A this season, but their campaign has been far from impressive. With 11 draws in 18 matches, the Bianconeri have struggled to turn dominance into wins. Their recent Supercoppa Italiana defeat to AC Milan exposed their lack of cutting edge in crucial moments.
Despite their inconsistencies, Juventus boast a strong defensive record and the individual brilliance of players like Dusan Vlahovic. However, they’ll miss suspended midfielder Manuel Locatelli and injured defenders Bremer and Juan Cabal, which could leave them vulnerable in the derby.
Predicted Juventus XI (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Di Gregorio
- Defenders: Savona, Gatti, Kalulu, McKennie
- Defensive Midfielders: Fagioli, Thuram
- Attacking Midfielders: Yildiz, Koopmeiners, Mbangula
- Striker: Vlahovic
Key Battles to Watch
- Che Adams vs Juventus Defense: Adams’ physicality and work rate could trouble Juventus’ backline, especially if Bremer is absent.
- Dusan Vlahovic vs Torino’s Defense: Vlahovic’s movement and finishing will test Torino’s defensive discipline.
- Midfield Control: With Ricci potentially out and Locatelli suspended, the midfield battle could decide the game’s tempo.
Torino vs Juventus Prediction
The Derby della Mole has been dominated by Juventus in recent years, and this match is unlikely to buck the trend. Torino’s lack of goals and creativity makes them underdogs, while Juventus’ defensive solidity gives them the edge. Expect a tight, low-scoring affair with Juventus grinding out a narrow victory.
Prediction: Juventus to win & under 3.5 goals
How to Watch
- Date/Time: Saturday, January 11, 2025 – UK: 5:00 PM / US ET: 12:00 PM / US PT: 9:00 AM
- TV: UK – Not televised / US – CBS Sports (select matches)
- Online: UK – OneFootball / US – Paramount+
The Derby della Mole is more than just a football match; it’s a battle for pride and bragging rights in Turin. Will Juventus continue their dominance, or can Torino rise to the occasion? Tune in to find out!
