Champions League preview: waiting for a miracle

The Old Lady welcomes the Scottish guest in Turin in the second leg of the Champions League clash with a wide and relaxed grin. The Italians claimed a confident victory in Glasgow 3-0 and now find themselves in pole position for the qualification to the next round.

It is quite difficult to imagine the obstacles that Juve may face on their way to the quarterfinals. Neil Lennon’s side probably has a decent plan for the game, though the Bhoys still expect a miracle to happen.

The aim of Antonio Conte’s team is basically not to concede a goal and keep the score they already earned. With Andrea Pirlo in the squad that sounds even easier as Italy international played in seven Champions League campaigns for Milan and Juve and has enough experience to keep the team’s composure in the game. Pirlo provides leadership and confidence on the pitch keeping possession and delivering the ball to his teammates.

In case Juve would like to boost the level of confidence even higher up to the sky, Gianluigi Buffon can provide some more as the keeper took part in eight Champions League campaigns with the Bianconeri. The legendary shot-stopper reached an impressive form having recorded clean sheets in four of his five appearances. With Buffon’s skill and confidence, it is hard to believe the player may flop in the game of this level.

If Celtic wants to score several goals in Turin then the team’s leading scorer Gary Hooper should play a pivotal role in the game. The forward was shining throughout the season yet lately hit goalless spell netting just once in last eight matches.

One more important figure is a 21-year-old defender Adam Matthews who made most assists in the club this season. If Neil Lennon’s side are to stand any chance of scoring three times, the likes of Gary Hooper, Georgios Samaras, and Anthony Stokes will need to be given enough ammunition. The defender may seem a strange source of effective passing, but the right back could provide the offensive spark that Celtic need to get the necessary goals and ultimately the right result.