Juventus Drawn Against Galatasaray in Champions League Play-off

The stage is set for a high-stakes European showdown as Juventus has been drawn to face Turkish giants Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League play-off round. The draw, held on Friday, January 30, 2026, pairs the Bianconeri against a formidable opponent in a two-legged tie that will determine who secures a spot in the lucrative knockout stages of the competition.

Under the guidance of Thiago Motta, the Italian side has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but the trip to Istanbul is notoriously one of the most intimidating atmospheres in world football. The first leg will be played in Turin, putting pressure on Juve to secure a convincing lead before facing the "hell" of the RAMS Park in the return leg.

Galatasaray enters the tie with a squad boasting seasoned veterans and explosive talent, making them a dangerous draw for any top-seeded team. Historical encounters between these two clubs have often been dramatic, including the infamous snow-delayed match in 2013 that saw the Turkish side edge out the Italians. Juventus fans are hopeful that their current squad, led by stars like Dušan Vlahović and Kenan Yıldız, can navigate the tactical and emotional challenges of this high-pressure matchup.

Overcoming such a tough opponent could provide the momentum needed for a deep run in the tournament. Football fans across the globe are already marking their calendars for what promises to be one of the most intense fixtures of the 2025/26 Champions League season.

Do you think Juventus has enough quality to survive the intense atmosphere in Istanbul, or are Galatasaray the favorites to pull off an upset? Share your comments below!

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