Daily Dynamo Selections – Juventus v Lyon
It is an indication of the decline of Italian football that by far the strongest side in Serie A were eliminated from the Champions League during the group stage. But Juventus can at least seek some form of solace from the Europa League where they are now rated as favourites to win the competition. Their chances improved after a victory over Lyon in the first-leg of this tie.
Juve thus find themselves in a very strong position going into this second-leg, and are an overwhelming favourite to come through this tie. Lyon haven't really pulled up any tress in Ligue 1 this year, while Juve are certain to lift their third consecutive Serie A crown, so in many ways this match looks to be a foregone conclusion.
If one thing can hurt the home side in this match, it is that they're relatively weak up front. Take Carlos Tevez out of the Juventus side, and they don't exactly look like a prolific side. The Argentine has performed very creditably in a Juventus shirt, but Juve do at times look somewhat short of goals up front and reliant on their defensive solidity, even if they are dominating Serie A.
Nonetheless, I can't see a mediocre Lyon side turning this one round. Juventus are rock solid at the back, and actually have one of the best central midfields in Europe, dominated by Pogba and Vidal. I think the Italians will go through to the semi-finals without much difficulty.
Selections: Safe Bet – Under 2.5 goals (39/40 with BetVictor), Value Bet – Juventus 2 – 0 Lyon (5/1 with BetVictor)
