Juventus begins their Coppa Italia journey against Serie A strugglers Salernitana on Thursday, aiming to advance to the quarter-finals and secure their 15th Coppa trophy in May.
Match Preview
The defending champions in 2022, Juventus, are pursuing another Coppa victory after last year’s semi-final loss to Inter Milan.
Under Max Allegri’s guidance, Juventus has found stability, boasting a 13-game unbeaten streak in Serie A and staying close to the top of the table.
Juve’s defensive solidity, conceding just seven goals in their last 14 home matches, bodes well as they face Salernitana.
The Bianconeri, who recently defeated Roma, are keen on continuing their cup run, especially against a familiar foe.
Salernitana, despite a recent win against Hellas Verona, languish at the bottom of Serie A. After surviving relegation last season, their struggle continues, although an away win could boost their morale ahead of this cup tie.
Despite Salernitana’s historical away struggles, they’ve progressed to the last 16, overcoming Serie B sides Ternana and Sampdoria. Manager Pippo Inzaghi, facing his former club, aims to secure a quarter-final spot.
Team News
Allegri might rest key players like Dusan Vlahovic and Federico Chiesa, eyeing their league game against Salernitana over the weekend.
Promising talents such as Samuel Iling-Junior and Dean Huijsen could feature, while Andrea Cambiaso returns from suspension.
Salernitana misses star striker Boulaye Dia, but Simy, recently reintegrated, offers attacking options.
Injuries to Lorenzo Pirola and Grigoris Kastanos weaken their squad. Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa might make a comeback from injury.
Predicted Lineups
Juventus: (3-5-2)
Perin;
Rugani, Huijsen, Gatti;
Weah, Miretti, Locatelli, Nicolussi Caviglia, Cambiaso;
Yildiz, Milik
Salernitana: (4-2-3-1)
Costil;
Sambia, Lovato, Gyomber, Bradaric;
Bohinen, Legowski;
Botheim, Martegani, Tchaouna;
Ikwuemesi
Prediction: Juventus 3-1 Salernitana
Juventus, despite fielding an alternate XI, should secure victory and progress to the Coppa quarter-finals. Salernitana’s struggles away from home are likely to continue, setting up Juventus for a comfortable win.
