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Preview

Spherical 25: Juventus vs. Inter Milan match preview

by Soccer-News February 14, 2026

As a lot because the looming Champions League tie in opposition to Galatasaray is one thing that has been on our radar for the final couple of weeks, the identical can’t be mentioned in regards to the second assembly of the 2025-26 season in opposition to Inter Milan. That’s just because the Derby d’Italia is one thing you’ve circled in your calendar for months, and primarily based on how the primary matchup went, the second was at all times going to be an necessary measuring stick for each side of Italy’s largest rivalry.

In fact, so much has occurred since that mid-September fixture that noticed a seven-goal thriller go the best way of Juventus.

That win proved to be one of many final ones that Igor Tudor recorded as Juventus supervisor earlier than being fired all of 5 weeks later. Sure, the identical Tudor who’s about to turn into an interim supervisor for the second straight season, this time at Tottenham Hotspur with just a few Juventus gamers of the previous. As Juventus went by a managerial change and the next evolutionary course of that comes with it, Inter have solely gone on to determine themselves because the Scudetto favorites — one thing that makes completely no person who’s a daily BWRAO reader truly needed to see occur.

So now, 5 months after that first assembly that ended with Vasilije Adžić sending the Allianz Stadium into an absolute frenzy along with his hammer of a game-winning objective, Juventus and Inter meet once more, this time for a Valentine’s Day showdown on the stadium that simply hosted the Opening Ceremony for the Winter Olympics.

Juventus are actually an improved group beneath Luciano Spalletti heading into Saturday night time’s matchup with the Serie A leaders. Inter are perhaps much more of a case of a group discovering critical kind over the past couple of months and have been capable of construct an eight-point benefit over metropolis rivals AC Milan coming into Matchday 25. (That was reduce to 5 factors with Milan’s victory over Pisa on Luka Modric’s late game-winning objective as a result of that’s simply what a world-class participant at age 40 is able to generally.)

Each groups are higher than they had been the primary time the Derby d’Italia was on the schedule.

However the query is: Can the present model of Juventus, one that’s coming off a loss to Atalanta within the Coppa Italia and a irritating draw with Lazio final weekend, get the higher of the present model of Cristian Chivu’s Inter?

We all know how the final couple of outings for Juventus have been extra about what they haven’t finished regardless of being removed from a aspect that has performed poorly. What about Inter? What have they finished lately? Nicely, let’s have a look …

Inter have gained 11 of their final 12 video games in Serie A.Inter have saved a clear sheet in 5 of their final seven video games in Serie A.In six of their final eight video games in Serie A, Inter have been capable of construct a lead heading into halftime.Of their final three Serie A victories, Inter have scored a mixed whole of 13 objectives and allowed all of 1.

That could be a group on kind. It doesn’t matter what they’ve finished in Europe — and, similar to Juventus, they’ve a Champions League play-off spherical matchup to consider in just a few days, too — they’re completely essentially the most in-form group in Serie A nowadays and there’s no actual alternate contender to attempt to persuade you in any other case.

Working example, right here is how the desk seems to be since Spalletti took over at Juventus:

Inter: 40 pointsMilan: 35 pointsJuventus: 31 factors

Based mostly merely on outcomes from the previous 180 or so minutes of soccer final week, Juventus are in want of a serious bounce again to get again on monitor. With their draw to Lazio and Roma’s win over Cagliari 24 hours later, Juventus now have firm on 46 factors coming into the weekend. Contemplating Roma play a determined Napoli group, there’s an opportunity for somewhat little bit of assist if Juventus had been to get the win at San Siro on Saturday night time.

However that includes Juventus successful — which in opposition to such an in-form like Inter goes to much more difficult of a chance as heading to Milan often is to start with. Then once more, Juve have gained the final two head-to-head matchups in opposition to Inter and will likely be going for a 3rd this weekend. Three is a development — and that’s one thing that we will most actually help if it continues.

In an fascinating twist that might be the case for the foreseeable future, Spalletti didn’t maintain a pre-match press convention, with the membership reportedly insisting on the Tuscan supervisor specializing in the sport(s) forward reasonably than having to take care of a number of media obligations forward of Saturday’s Derby d’Italia. So, should you had been hoping to get squad updates in basic Spalletti trend, you’re out of luck.As an alternative of Spalletti holding a pre-match press convention, Juventus had captain Manuel Locatelli take to the mic and discuss with the media to preview Saturday’s showdown with Inter. As you possibly can in all probability guess, it’s somewhat totally different form of press convention with Locatelli as in comparison with a supervisor like Spalletti.In terms of squad information, we do know that Khephren Thuram is out of the blue a doubt to face Inter after selecting up a bone bruise in coaching on Friday. He will likely be re-evaluated on Saturday morning previous to the squad’s departure for Milan.If Thuram is to overlook Saturday’s derby in opposition to his brother’s group, it is going to possible be Teun Koopmeiners stepping in and beginning alongside Locatelli.The opposite two harm absences are far more of a positive factor, with Dusan Vlahovic and Arek Milik (after all) each positively out. Vlahovic is, nonetheless, beginning to work his method again to full health at Continassa and might be accessible in early March, in line with earlier stories.Aside from the troubles about Thuram’s health, the one actual lineup choice that Spalletti seems to be to have is that if he’ll stick along with his 4-2-3-1 formation or if he’ll swap to a three-man backline to reflect Inter’s 3-5-2. If he does go to a three-man backline, that possible means Weston McKennie begins forward of Francisco Conceição as one of many two attacking midfielders behind Jonathan David.Simply as was the case final weekend in opposition to Lazio, each Locatelli and Weston McKennie — two essential gamers for Spalletti nowadays! — are one yellow card away from having to serve a one-game suspension.

As a lot as there’s out of the blue a doubt about one in all Juventus’ most necessary midfielders and the comprehensible doubts in regards to the participant who would possible come into the beginning lineup to exchange him, there may be nonetheless a really huge factor to deal with on the subject of the Bianconeri’s protection.

It’s the easy undeniable fact that Juve’s finest defender has not been enjoying as such the previous couple of instances out.

Not precisely what you need to be listening to when two of one of the best strikers in Italy are going to be lining up throughout from you, is it? (No, under no circumstances.) So let’s simply go forward and talk about.

BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 5: Gleison Bremer of Juventus FC seems to be on through the Coppa Italia match between Atalanta BC and Juventus at New Steadiness Enviornment on February 5, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photograph by Alberto Gandolfo/BSR Company/Getty Photographs) Getty Photographs

In Juventus’ loss to Atalanta and draw to Lazio, a sure Gleison Bremer hasn’t precisely been all that spectacular. That in of itself is notable as a result of Bremer and his broad shoulders are often extremely spectacular — and that’s not simply me attempting to work in the truth that he’s an extremely good-looking man. He’s excellent at his job. Sadly, that hasn’t precisely been the case recently, and that’s one thing that might want to change for the higher if Juventus need an opportunity to say a second straight win over their most-hated rival.

But when Bremer’s not at his typical stage, then it might be an extended night time.

We all know that Juventus’ protection may be very a lot a unique unit when Bremer is his typical self. When he isn’t, although, that’s once we’ve seen them look an entire lot like they did final season after his season-ending knee harm. We don’t know what has triggered Bremer to battle of recently formally, however contemplating he has performed a heavy quantity of minutes since making his comeback in December from his meniscus surgical procedure, it’s fairly simple to attach the dots — particularly once you see how compact the schedule was in January and now into February.

The hope, after all, is that having six days in between Juventus’ draw with Lazio and the journey to the San Siro to face Inter is the factor that Bremer wanted to relaxation up and hopefully utterly get rid of these irritating showings in opposition to Atalanta and Lazio. The person wants his relaxation — and particularly so when you think about that he’s barely had a lot time to relaxation ever because the begin of the brand new yr.

It doesn’t matter what, although, it’s fairly simple to determine that if Bremer isn’t at his finest then Juve’s probabilities of beating Inter at San Siro turns into simply that rather more of a more durable process. If he’s the Bremer we all know he could be, properly then that simply appears to vary issues for the higher whereas different components of the lineup stay query marks.

When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.

The place: Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, Milan, Italy.

Official kickoff time: 8:45 p.m. native time in Italy and throughout Europe, 7:45 p.m. in the UK, 2:45 p.m. Japanese time, 1:45 p.m. Central time, 11:45 a.m. Pacific time.

Tv: TLN (Canada); TNT Sports activities 3, TNT Sports activities 7 (United Kingdom); Sky Sport Uno, Sky Sport Calcio, Sky Sport 251 (Italy).

On-line/Streaming: Paramount+, Amazon Prime USA, DAZN USA, fuboTV (United States); DAZN Canada; fuboTV Canada (Canada); DAZN UK (United Kingdom); DAZN Italy, Sky Go Italia, NOW TV (Italy).

Different reside viewing choices could be discovered right here, and as at all times, you can too observe together with us reside and all of the silly issues we are saying on Bluesky. Should you haven’t already, be part of the neighborhood on Black & White & Learn All Over, and be part of within the dialogue beneath.

February 14, 2026 0 comments

Serie A

Spherical 25: Juventus vs. Inter Milan match preview

by Soccer-News February 14, 2026

written by Soccer-News

As a lot because the looming Champions League tie in opposition to Galatasaray is one thing that has been on our radar for the final couple of weeks, the identical can’t be stated in regards to the second assembly of the 2025-26 season in opposition to Inter Milan. That’s just because the Derby d’Italia is one thing you’ve circled in your calendar for months, and primarily based on how the primary matchup went, the second was at all times going to be an essential measuring stick for either side of Italy’s largest rivalry.

In fact, quite a bit has occurred since that mid-September fixture that noticed a seven-goal thriller go the way in which of Juventus.

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That win proved to be one of many final ones that Igor Tudor recorded as Juventus supervisor earlier than being fired all of 5 weeks later. Sure, the identical Tudor who’s about to turn into an interim supervisor for the second straight season, with a couple of Juventus gamers of the previous. As Juventus went by way of a managerial change and the next evolutionary course of that comes with it, Inter have solely gone on to ascertain themselves because the Scudetto favorites — one thing that makes completely no one who’s an everyday BWRAO reader truly wished to see occur.

So now, 5 months after that first assembly that ended with Vasilije Adžić sending the Allianz Stadium into an absolute frenzy together with his hammer of a game-winning purpose, Juventus and Inter meet once more, this time for a Valentine’s Day showdown on the stadium that simply hosted the Opening Ceremony for the Winter Olympics.

Juventus are actually an improved crew underneath Luciano Spalletti heading into Saturday night time’s matchup with the Serie A leaders. Inter are possibly much more of a case of a crew discovering severe kind over the past couple of months and have been capable of construct an eight-point benefit over metropolis rivals AC Milan coming into Matchday 25. (That was minimize to 5 factors with Milan’s victory over Pisa on Luka Modric’s late game-winning purpose as a result of that’s simply what a world-class participant at age 40 is able to typically.)

Each groups are higher than they had been the primary time the Derby d’Italia was on the schedule.

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We all know how the final couple of outings for Juventus have been extra about what they haven’t executed regardless of being removed from a aspect that has performed poorly. What about Inter? What have they executed not too long ago? Nicely, let’s have a look …

Inter have gained 11 of their final 12 video games in Serie A.

Inter have saved a clear sheet in 5 of their final seven video games in Serie A.

In six of their final eight video games in Serie A, Inter have been capable of construct a lead heading into halftime.

Of their final three Serie A victories, Inter have scored a mixed whole of 13 targets and allowed all of 1.

That could be a crew on kind. It doesn’t matter what they’ve executed in Europe — and, similar to Juventus, they’ve a Champions League play-off spherical matchup to think about in a couple of days, too — they’re completely essentially the most in-form crew in Serie A as of late and there’s no actual alternate contender to try to persuade you in any other case.

Living proof, right here is how the desk appears to be like since Spalletti took over at Juventus:

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Primarily based merely on outcomes from the previous 180 or so minutes of soccer final week, Juventus are in want of a significant bounce again to get again on monitor. With their draw to Lazio and Roma’s win over Cagliari 24 hours later, Juventus now have firm on 46 factors coming into the weekend. Contemplating Roma play a determined Napoli crew, there’s an opportunity for just a little little bit of assist if Juventus had been to get the win at San Siro on Saturday night time.

However that entails Juventus successful — which in opposition to such an in-form like Inter goes to much more sophisticated of a risk as heading to Milan normally is to start with. Then once more, Juve have gained the final two head-to-head matchups in opposition to Inter and might be going for a 3rd this weekend. Three is a development — and that’s one thing that we are able to most actually help if it continues.

TEAM NEWS

In an fascinating twist that may very well be the case for the foreseeable future, Spalletti didn’t maintain a pre-match press convention, with the membership reportedly insisting on the Tuscan supervisor specializing in the sport(s) forward fairly than having to take care of a number of media obligations forward of Saturday’s Derby d’Italia. So, for those who had been hoping to get squad updates in basic Spalletti trend, you’re out of luck.

As a substitute of Spalletti holding a pre-match press convention, Juventus had captain Manuel Locatelli take to the mic and discuss with the media to preview Saturday’s showdown with Inter. As you’ll be able to most likely guess, it’s just a little totally different sort of press convention with Locatelli as in comparison with a supervisor like Spalletti.

With regards to squad information, we do know that Khephren Thuram is immediately a doubt to face Inter after selecting up a bone bruise in coaching on Friday. He might be re-evaluated on Saturday morning previous to the squad’s departure for Milan.

If Thuram is to overlook Saturday’s derby in opposition to his brother’s crew, it’ll possible be Teun Koopmeiners stepping in and beginning alongside Locatelli.

The opposite two damage absences are rather more of a positive factor, with Dusan Vlahovic and Arek Milik (in fact) each undoubtedly out. Vlahovic is, nevertheless, beginning to work his means again to full health at Continassa and may very well be obtainable in early March, in keeping with earlier reviews.

Aside from the troubles about Thuram’s health, the one actual lineup choice that Spalletti appears to be like to have is that if he’ll stick together with his 4-2-3-1 formation or if he’ll swap to a three-man backline to reflect Inter’s 3-5-2. If he does go to a three-man backline, that possible means Weston McKennie begins forward of Francisco Conceição as one of many two attacking midfielders behind Jonathan David.

Simply as was the case final weekend in opposition to Lazio, each Locatelli and Weston McKennie — two essential gamers for Spalletti as of late! — are one yellow card away from having to serve a one-game suspension.

JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH

As a lot as there’s immediately a doubt about one in all Juventus’ most essential midfielders and the comprehensible doubts in regards to the participant who would possible come into the beginning lineup to interchange him, there may be nonetheless a really huge factor to handle in the case of the Bianconeri’s protection.

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It’s the easy incontrovertible fact that Juve’s finest defender has not been taking part in as such the previous few occasions out.

Not precisely what you wish to be listening to when two of the very best strikers in Italy are going to be lining up throughout from you, is it? (No, in no way.) So let’s simply go forward and talk about.

In Juventus’ loss to Atalanta and draw to Lazio, a sure Gleison Bremer hasn’t precisely been all that spectacular. That in of itself is notable as a result of Bremer and his broad shoulders are normally extremely spectacular — and that’s not simply me making an attempt to work in the truth that he’s an extremely good-looking man. He’s superb at his job. Sadly, that hasn’t precisely been the case recently, and that’s one thing that might want to change for the higher if Juventus need an opportunity to assert a second straight win over their most-hated rival.

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But when Bremer’s not at his standard stage, then it may very well be an extended night time.

We all know that Juventus’ protection may be very a lot a distinct unit when Bremer is his standard self. When he isn’t, although, that’s after we’ve seen them look an entire lot like they did final season after his season-ending knee damage. We don’t know what has induced Bremer to wrestle of recently formally, however contemplating he has performed a heavy quantity of minutes since making his comeback in December from his meniscus surgical procedure, it’s fairly simple to attach the dots — particularly whenever you see how compact the schedule was in January and now into February.

The hope, in fact, is that having six days in between Juventus’ draw with Lazio and the journey to the San Siro to face Inter is the factor that Bremer wanted to relaxation up and hopefully fully eliminate these irritating showings in opposition to Atalanta and Lazio. The person wants his relaxation — and particularly so when you think about that he’s barely had a lot time to relaxation ever for the reason that begin of the brand new 12 months.

It doesn’t matter what, although, it’s fairly simple to determine that if Bremer just isn’t at his finest then Juve’s probabilities of beating Inter at San Siro turns into simply that rather more of a harder activity. If he’s the Bremer we all know he will be, nicely then that simply appears to vary issues for the higher whereas different elements of the lineup stay query marks.

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MATCH INFO

When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.

The place: Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, Milan, Italy.

Official kickoff time: 8:45 p.m. native time in Italy and throughout Europe, 7:45 p.m. in the UK, 2:45 p.m. Japanese time, 1:45 p.m. Central time, 11:45 a.m. Pacific time.

HOW TO WATCH

Tv: TLN (Canada); TNT Sports activities 3, TNT Sports activities 7 (United Kingdom); Sky Sport Uno, Sky Sport Calcio, Sky Sport 251 (Italy).

On-line/Streaming: , Amazon Prime USA, DAZN USA, fuboTV (United States); DAZN Canada; fuboTV Canada (Canada); DAZN UK (United Kingdom); DAZN Italy, Sky Go Italia, NOW TV (Italy).

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Different reside viewing choices will be discovered , and as at all times, you may as well observe together with us reside and all of the silly issues we are saying . Should you haven’t already, on Black & White & Learn All Over, and be part of within the dialogue under.

February 14, 2026 0 comments

Bundesliga

Bundesliga Matchday Preview: Werder Bremen vs. Bayern Munich

by Soccer-News February 13, 2026

written by Soccer-News

Bayern Munich bounced again after a difficult run of fixtures, first with a 5-1 win over Hoffenheim earlier than securing a DFB-Pokal semi-final berth after beating RB Leipzig 2-0 in Munich. Subsequent up is a visit to basement boys Werder Bremen, who’re having a torrid season the place they’re sitting within the relegation play-off spot.

Location: Wohninvest Weserstadion, Bremen, Germany

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Date: February 14, 2026

Kickoff: 3:30 PM Native time | 9:30 AM EST | 8:30 AM PST

TV/streaming: ,

Crew information

Right here’s how we expect Vincent Kompany will set the staff up, preserving in thoughts the truth that he’s seeking to rotate cautiously:

Lineup adjustments:

IN: Jonas Urbig, Konrad Laimer, Hiroki Itō, Lennart Karl, Jamal Musiala

OUT: Manuel Neuer, Josip Stanišić, Alphonso Davies, Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry

Participant standing updates:

Michael Olise, Yellow card accumulation (out)

Three issues to learn about Bayern:

Bayern has scored two or extra targets in all of their away matches since a 1-1 draw with Union Berlin in March final 12 months (at present at 14 matches). —

Harry Kane has scored extra targets by himself (24 targets) than Werder Bremen has scored within the league to this point (22). — by way of Bayern’s official web site

Bayern’s final match, a 2-0 win over Leipzig within the DFB-Pokal quarter-final, marks their first semi-final look in that match since 2019/20.

Three issues to learn about Werder Bremen:

Werder Bremen hasn’t received a league match since November, which was a 2-1 win over Wolfsburg.

Werder Bremen has the third-worst assault within the Bundesliga (22 targets scored) forward of St. Pauli (20) and Heidenheim (19), each of whom occupy the automated relegation locations in seventeenth and 18th respectively.

Bayern-Bremen is essentially the most performed match in Bundesliga historical past, with 118 matchups so far (together with Saturday’s match) since Bayern’s promotion to the league in 1965. Bayern has received their final 15 away league journeys to Bremen, final dropping factors on March 1, 2009, and final shedding on October 21, 2006. — by way of Bayern’s official web site

Prediction: Bayern wins 4-0 with targets from Harry Kane (x2), Jamal Musiala, and Tom Bischof.

In case you are on the lookout for extra Bayern Munich and German nationwide staff protection, try the newest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you will get on , , , or any main podcast distributor…

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February 13, 2026 0 comments

Premier League

Hull Metropolis vs Chelsea: Match Preview, Newest Staff Information and Find out how to Watch

by Soccer-News February 13, 2026

written by Soccer-News

Hull vs Chelsea: FA Cup Check Carries Narrative and Strain

Chelsea head to Humberside tonight for an FA Cup fourth spherical tie that carries extra subtext than the fixture record initially suggests. Hull await on the MKM Stadium, flying excessive within the Championship and keen to check themselves towards Premier League opposition.

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That is the place romance meets scrutiny. Hull are fourth within the second tier and concentrating on the play offs, whereas Chelsea arrive needing reassurance after a irritating 2-2 draw with Leeds in midweek. That outcome, surrendering a 2-0 lead at Stamford Bridge, has sharpened focus across the squad’s resilience forward of this FA Cup project.

Kick Off Particulars and Broadcast Data

Hull vs Chelsea is scheduled for a 7.45pm GMT kick off on February 13, 2026 on the MKM Stadium. For viewers within the UK, the FA Cup tie will likely be proven stay on BBC One and TNT Sports activities 1, with protection beginning at 7pm GMT. Supporters may stream the match by way of the Discovery+ app and web site, whereas BBC iPlayer will supply free entry with a sound TV licence.

The FA Cup retains a sure readability. It strips away league context and presents a easy query, are you able to deal with the second.

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Staff Information Shapes FA Cup Strategy

Chelsea’s preparation has been formed by health updates. Captain Reece James returned to coaching after sickness dominated him out towards Wolves and Leeds, although he was described as “nonetheless below the climate”, leaving his involvement unsure. Marc Cucurella is sidelined with a hamstring downside.

Photograph IMAGO

There may be, nonetheless, reinforcement. Mamadou Sarr, recalled from his mortgage at Strasbourg, is predicted to characteristic in some capability. Filip Jorgensen may resume goalkeeping duties after recovering from a knock, whereas Tosin Adarabioyo has additionally returned to coaching following his personal hamstring challenge. Jamie Gittens suffered a hamstring tear towards West Ham, but Romeo Lavia’s return to the grass affords encouragement.

Photograph IMAGO

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Hull have their very own issues. Charlie Hughes and Manchester United loanee Toby Collyer are doubts. Cody Drameh is again in coaching, whereas supervisor Sergej Jakirovic could look to latest additions equivalent to Paddy McNair, Kieran Dowell, Lewis Koumas and Yu Hirakawa to bridge any gaps towards their Premier League guests.

Photograph IMAGO

Hull Momentum Meets Chelsea Expectation

Hull progressed previous Charlton 5-1 within the earlier spherical and have been largely spectacular within the Championship. Their six match unbeaten run was halted by Bristol Metropolis final day out, however confidence stays intact.

Chelsea’s FA Cup marketing campaign started emphatically. They swept Charlton apart in a 5-1 victory that mirrored attacking readability and ruthless ending. The problem now’s consistency.

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Hull at residence won’t merely oblige. They’ve organisation, athleticism and a way of event. But that is exactly the kind of fixture Chelsea should negotiate if they’re critical about restoring authority. After the Leeds collapse, the FA Cup supplies a right away likelihood to recalibrate.

Prediction discussions are inclined to orbit type and division. Hull are robust on the MKM Stadium and effectively coached. Chelsea possess better depth and expertise in navigating knockout ties. The doubtless consequence is slim somewhat than comfy.

Chelsea to win, 2-1.

Head to Head File

Historic numbers lean closely in Chelsea’s favour. Hull have 4 wins on this fixture, Chelsea 34, with 10 attracts. Such statistics supply context somewhat than assure.

For Chelsea, the FA Cup stays each alternative and obligation. For Hull, it’s a platform. That stress is what offers this tie its edge.

February 13, 2026 0 comments

Premier League

Hull Metropolis vs. Chelsea, FA Cup: Preview, workforce information, methods to watch

by Soccer-News February 13, 2026

written by Soccer-News

After a dozen or so video games as interim supervisor at Derby County, Liam Rosenior acquired his first correct job as a soccer supervisor when he was appointed Hull Metropolis boss in November 2022. He had spent his prime years at Hull as a participant again within the 2010s, so it was a stunning little homecoming story. Over the subsequent almost two seasons, he took the Tigers to the brink of the Championship playoffs, falling only one place shy in 2024. They sacked him for that, then virtually acquired relegated the next season. Hah!

Their loss was BlueCo’s acquire, with Rosenior going to Strasbourg after which, somewhat over a month in the past, coming to Chelsea to select up the items after Enzo Maresca’s messy exit. And he’s picked them up fairly properly certainly, regardless of the frustration and disappointment of the 2-2 draw towards Leeds United earlier this week. He’s not put them again collectively to type a coherent image simply but, however akin to beginning a jigsaw puzzle, I suppose he might need the border finished already.

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I’d think about he’ll get a pleasant welcome when he returns in cost the Blues tonight; then maybe a barely colder reception on the finish ought to he information his new workforce to victory and a spot within the FA Cup fifth spherical.

Date / Time: Friday, February 13, 2026, 19.45 GMT; 2:45pm EST; 1:15am IST (subsequent day)Venue: MKM Stadium, HullReferee: Farai Hallam (no VAR)Forecast: Breezy however the rain may cease by then

On TV: BBC One (UK); ESPN2, ESPN Deportes (USA); Sony TEN 2 (India); SuperSport Premier League, Canal+ Sport 3 (NGA); Streaming: BBC iPlayer (UK); ESPN+ (USA); Sony LIV (India); DStv Now (NGA)

Hull Metropolis workforce information: Smarter offseason choices have turned issues round for the Tigers after their near-relegation final 12 months, and new head coach Sergej Jakirović has them sitting all the best way up in fourth place.

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The previous Dinamo Zagreb supervisor was mentioned to favor an “thrilling and attacking philosophy” when employed — not like the apparently extra pragmatic Rosenior, who was let go exactly for not with the ability to meet these calls for from the membership proprietor. Positive sufficient, Hull are the fourth highest scoring workforce within the division … whereas additionally conceding greater than most. Actually, solely Southampton have conceded extra within the higher half of the Championship desk.

One other two summer time arrivals, Oli McBurnie and Joe Gelhardt are each among the many main goalscorers within the division; you might need un-fond reminiscences of each, with McBurnie scoring twice towards us for Sheffield United — together with in that almost all horrendous 3-0 defeat throughout Challenge Restart — and Gelhardt, a Leeds United loanee, scoring his first profession Premier League objective towards us a number of years in the past (at the least we’d win that one, dramatically, 3-2). He’s barely scored since, at the least till this season.

Current departures from the membership embody at least three former Chelsea prospects, with Xavier Simons transfering to Bolton Wanderers in the summertime and each Mason Burstow and Kasey Palmer going out on mortgage, the latter just some weeks in the past, in the course of the January switch window.

Jakirović admitted that he might choose to relaxation a few of his key gamers with their focus firmly on promotion, together with key middle again Charlie Hughes, who’s coping with a groin drawback.

“We should be good. If anybody is 50/50, it’s higher to make use of this week to get wholesome as a result of some gamers have performed three in a row at 70 per cent. […] We’re struggling in some positions particularly, however we’ll see.”

“Perhaps Charlie Hughes [is out]. He has drawback along with his groin. He’s performed virtually three weeks like this and is struggling lots, so I possibly resolve it’s higher to skip this sport. […] I have to be cautious and see what is best for the workforce.”

-Sergej Jakirović; supply:

Chelsea workforce information: Likewise, Rosenior might resolve to make the most of his squad to its full extent, even when the second- and third-choice gamers have largely struggled to impress when handed alternatives lately. However given the pressures of the Premier League top-five race, to not point out the Champions League knockout rounds developing, this can be our final finest probability to relaxation and rotate (particularly with a uncommon full week earlier than out subsequent sport).

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Accidents and health issues might after all stop any such plans, although the likes of Reece James, Tosin Adarabioyo, and even Roméo Lavia could also be out there for choice. Marc Cucurella was additionally noticed in coaching, although he’s already been dominated out with the hamstring drawback that pressured him off at half-time towards Leeds United on Tuesday. Levi Colwill, Jamie Gittens, and Dário Essugo stay out as properly whereas the standing of backup goalkeeper Filip Jörgensen stays a thriller. Academy grad Teddy Sharman-Lowe has been serving because the backup, forward of Gaga Slonina, within the final couple weeks.

Beforehand: That is our third straight assembly with Hull Metropolis within the FA Cup; we gained 2-1 away in 2020 (fourth spherical) and 4-0 at house in 2018 (fifth spherical). We’d attain the ultimate in each of these seasons, profitable it in 2018 (nonetheless our final home trophy). General, we’ve gained our final eight towards the Tigers, in all competitions; in reality, we’ve solely ever misplaced to them as soon as in our historical past (35 whole conferences), again in 1988.

February 13, 2026 0 comments

Serie A

Como vs Fiorentina: Preview

by Soccer-News February 12, 2026

written by Soccer-News

Horrible information, everybody. Fiorentina’s again in motion this weekend. Even worse, Serie A’s most disappointing aspect takes on Como, a staff that’s already gained twice in Florence this 12 months, . The Lariani, in fact, have gone from energy to energy, knocking Napoli out of the Coppa on penalties on Tuesday. Maybe the Viola can ambush their excessive flying hosts, who is perhaps drained out from their midweek exertions, however let’s be actual: Como’s miles forward and is the plain favourite.

The match shall be performed on Saturday, 14 February 2026, at 14:00 GMT/9:00 AM EST on the Stadio Giuseppe Sinagaglia in Como. The forecast requires a gray day on the banks of the lake with the possibility of some rain, which completely fits my emotions going into this one. As a reminder, Fiorentina’s followers aren’t allowed to journey for Serie A video games for the remainder of the 12 months after their idiotic conflict with AS Roma followers on a freeway exterior Turin.

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Three issues to observe for1. Depth, urgency, all that jazz

Each cliche applies to Fiorentina proper now. There aren’t leaders, there’s no character, the mentality is terrible. I quantified it with earlier this week however you don’t want numbers to see that one thing elementary is damaged at this membership. Whether or not that’s the deaths of Joe Barone and Rocco Commisso in fast succession or the organizational turmoil in higher administration positions, issues aren’t proper and that hasn’t trickled right down to the gamers a lot as inundated them.

Fiorentina has proven glimpses of competence, in fact. The primary half towards Como was wonderful, for instance, regardless of a wackily-rotated squad. The second half towards Torino final trip was excellent till the turtling started. The whole lot might and should enhance, in fact, however that’s not potential at this juncture. Chopping out the boneheaded errors would go a protracted strategy to staying in Serie A, although. If the Viola can simply not dribble urine down their very own legs, they’ve obtained an affordable likelihood of getting one thing from this.

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2. Set piece protection, as per regular

Fiorentina has gone forward in each conferences with Como this 12 months and in each, Como equalized by way of a set piece aim. I’m as sick of writing about this subject as you’re of studying it however the reality stays that Fiorentina is nearly uniquely catastrophic at defending set items; earlier than fbref misplaced its information, the Viola had conceded extra possibilities from them than any staff in Serie A, and I haven’t seen something that might change that. The one silver lining is that for Como to equalize from one other nook or free kick would imply that not less than Fiorentina may have scored once more, solely to unravel as per.

3. What recent idiocy Fiorentina will unveil

One factor that’s been enjoyable* about this 12 months’s Fiorentina is the number of errors that each participant commits. We’ve seen defenders make inexcusable passes out the again, fluff their clearances, or stare at forwards operating previous them with out transferring. We’ve seen midfielders dribble into culs-de-sac of their very own development, bork 5-yard passes, and stand astonished within the middle circle reasonably than observe again. The forwards have missed objectives in more and more artistic methods, dribbled into contact, and wandered off the pitch to take pleasure in a pleasant bowl of carabaccia.

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Selection is the spice of life and it is a very spicy staff certainly. Should you, like me, have just about given up hope for this unbelievable assortment of bozos to really do their jobs for 90 minutes, the one leisure they’ll give you is a collection of errors that deserve . If we’re caught on this sinking ship, all we are able to do is fireplace up the kazoos and supply a morbidly raucous refrain earlier than the waves shut over our heads.

*this has not truly been enjoyable in any respect

Doable lineups

Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Moreno, Kempf, Diego Carlos, van der Brempt; da Cunha, Perrone; Rodríguez, Paz, Kühn; Douvickas ||| Fiorentina (4-5-1): de Gea; Gosens, Pongračić, Comuzzo, Dodô; Solomon, Brescianini, Fagioli, Mandragora, Parisi; Kean

Ted’s Memorial Blind Guess Division

Everybody from the specialists to the bookies to the bettors predicts Como to win and that’s the right opinion. In any case, Serie A’s nouveau-est riche aspect is within the hunt for a Champions League place and, even when that’s most likely past it, Europe beckons any staff in sixth at this stage of the season. The guests are, in fact, full and utter ass. Their solely benefit is a number of further days of relaxation and that’s not almost sufficient to tip the scales.

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Because of the curse that’s TMBGD, although, I suppose I’ll name it a 1-2 win for the guests. The Moose has proven indicators of life these days and I like his odds to get in behind the Como protection a few instances; he’ll want to complete a type of possibilities, in fact, however we’re in a secure house right here so let’s assume he does. Como will pull one again through Paz after a scramble at a free kick, setting the stage for a late winner on the break from Marco Brescianini because the hosts pour our bodies ahead. Como’s going to dominate this sport by each statistical and emotional metric however hey, why not fake like Fiorentina has an opportunity? We lose nothing by hoping.

Forza Viola!

February 12, 2026 0 comments

Serie A

Preview: Inter vs Juventus

by Soccer-News February 12, 2026

written by Soccer-News

The Juventus Males’s First Crew proceed their Serie A marketing campaign this weekend, with the Bianconeri set to go to the San Siro for Matchday 25 within the away sport versus Inter Milan. Kick-off is mounted for Saturday at 20:45 CET.

Juventus come into the weekend in fourth place with 46 factors following Kalulu’s late header securing some extent in opposition to Lazio final week.

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Inter, in the meantime, are in type and sit in first place with 58 factors.

Let’s stand up to hurry with the pre-match statistics forward of Saturday night’s sport.

Attention-grabbing Details

Because the Serie A was based with a single round-robin format (in 1929/30), Inter and Juventus have confronted one another 227 instances throughout all competitions: the Bianconeri boast 105 victories in comparison with 64 Nerazzurri victories and 58 attracts.

Inter and Juventus have confronted one another 185 instances within the league, with no different match having been performed extra within the historical past of Serie A. Juventus are the workforce that has overwhelmed the Milanese aspect essentially the most instances within the prime flight, and the workforce that has scored essentially the most targets in opposition to them within the match.

The Bianconeri have misplaced solely one in every of their final 12 matches in opposition to the Nerazzurri performed on a Saturday.

Juventus have scored 17 targets of their final six league video games, a median of two.8 targets per match: 1.5 greater than the common recorded of their first 18 league matches.

Kenan Yildiz may grow to be the primary Juventus participant to attain at the least 9 targets in a Serie A season earlier than turning 21 since Roberto Bettega, who scored 13 in 1970/71.

Since Luciano Spalletti took over as coach, Weston McKennie has been Juventus’ prime scorer in all competitions with seven targets. Throughout this era he’s the Serie A midfielder who has scored essentially the most targets in all competitions.

Jonathan David has been concerned in six targets in his final six league video games (4G+2A): precisely double the quantity he had in all his earlier 17 league matches. The 2000-born participant may grow to be the primary Canadian participant ever to attain in a Serie A Derby d’Italia.

Opposition Focus

Inter are the workforce in opposition to which Juventus have obtained essentially the most playing cards in Serie A within the three factors for a win period: 159.

Within the head-to-head clashes between the highest 4 groups presently within the Serie A standings, Inter have earned the fewest factors, only one, whereas Juventus, Napoli, and Milan all have seven factors.

Inter and Juventus are the 2 groups which have recorded essentially the most sequences of at the least 10 passes on this Serie A season (383 and 374, respectively).

Regardless of Juventus being the workforce in opposition to which Lautaro Martínez has performed essentially the most minutes (1,100) in Serie A, the Argentine has solely scored two targets in 15 league matches in opposition to the Bianconeri, recording his worst minutes/targets common (one each 550 minutes) in opposition to a single opponent he has confronted at the least thrice in his profession within the competitors.

Hakan Çalhanoglu and Piotr Zielinski are the 2 gamers presently within the Inter squad who’ve scored essentially the most targets within the league in opposition to Juventus: each three. Piotr Zielinski (48) can also be one step away from equalling Arkadiusz Milik (49) in 1st place among the many prime Polish scorers in Serie A.

February 12, 2026 0 comments

Champions League

Ok League in 2025-2026 AFC Champions League Match Day 7 Preview

by Soccer-News February 9, 2026

written by Soccer-News

Ok League sides in continental competitors will take to the sector for his or her first aggressive matches of 2026 in midweek, trying to shake off any rust and proceed their pursuits of 2025-2026 AFC Champions League glory.

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AFC Champions League Elite

Tuesday tenth February

Vissel Kobe (1st, JPN) vs. FC Seoul (fifth) – 19:00 KST

FC Seoul will play their first aggressive match of 2026 away to AFC Champions League Elite leaders Vissel Kobe, because the continent’s premier membership competitors resumes for Match Day 7. Seoul had been in respectable kind earlier than the winter break, incomes 5 factors from their final three ACLE outings, the final being a 1-1 draw with Melbourne Metropolis. Vissel Kobe, in the meantime, have been in a position to protect their place in first with a 2-2 draw at dwelling to Chengdu Rongcheng, making it three unbeaten following wins over Ulsan and Shanghai Shenhua. Kobe received their home marketing campaign up and working on Friday within the J1 100 12 months Imaginative and prescient League, away to Kyoto Sanga, drawing 1-1 then successful 4-1 on penalties.

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Kobe’s conflict with Ulsan was one in every of two towards Ok League opposition within the 2025-2026 version of the competitors, the opposite being an exciting 4-3 loss away to Gangwon. Seoul, in the meantime, have confronted J.League opposition simply as soon as up to now this marketing campaign, incomes a 1-1 draw away to Machida Zelvia final September. Kobe can be a tricky nut to crack for Seoul, with the J1 League champions main the best way for clear sheets with 4 and having proven their attacking prowess with the second-most touches within the field and the most effective shot conversion charge within the competitors of 18.8%. Seoul, in the meantime, rank first for correct passes per match, so can be anticipated to have a number of possession of the ball, regardless of being the away facet, and rank fourth for large probabilities created.

Seoul should be cautious of Yoshinori Muto, Kobe’s purpose scorer on Friday, who ranks second for pictures heading in the right direction per 90 with 2.7, ranks first for profitable dribbles (75%), and has two objectives and one help to his title within the ACL. The capital membership can be trying to new recruit Tune Min-kyu to fill Jesse Lingard’s footwear. Tune has featured in AFC membership competitions 18 instances, scoring 5 and aiding one.

Wednesday eleventh February

Gangwon FC (ninth) vs. Shanghai Port (twelfth, CHN) – 19:00 KST

Gangwon FC received off to an awesome begin of their debut ACL season, however kind tailed off in direction of the top of 2025, and now the Bears sit outdoors the qualification group. Jeong Kyung-ho’s males are ninth, however only a level behind Johor Darul Ta’zim, Buriram United, and Ulsan, and face basement facet Shanghai Port subsequent. The Chinese language Tremendous League giants have managed to select up simply two factors from their first six ACLE matches, owing to attracts with Sanfrecce Hiroshima and JDT. In addition they misplaced 3-1 to FC Seoul in what’s up to now their solely conflict with a Ok League facet this marketing campaign.

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Gangwon’s continental bow introduced a 2-1 dwelling win over Port’s metropolis neighbours Shanghai Shenhua, however was adopted up by a 1-0 loss away to Chengdu Rongcheng. Gangwon will look to regulate the sport with the lion’s share of possession, having racked up the best up to now amongst groups within the East facet of the competitors with 59.9%, however can be trying to get extra pictures heading in the right direction, rating ninth in that regard. Shanghai Port are the reigning Chinese language Tremendous League champions and weren’t among the many groups deducted factors for match fixing. Though unlikely, qualification to the Spherical of 16 continues to be mathematically attainable, however it might take two wins from their final two video games, and for outcomes elsewhere to go their means.

Kim Dae-won can be Gangwon’s participant to look at, creating 3.1 probabilities per 90 on common and 13 general because the Bears’ finest in that regard and the most effective amongst gamers within the East facet of the competitors. But when Gangwon can create probabilities, they’re going to must discover a well beyond Port goalkeeper Wei Chen, who ranks third for save share (81.8%) and first for saves per 90 with 6.8.

Ulsan HD (eighth) vs. Melbourne Metropolis (4th, AUS) – 19:00 KST

Ulsan HD start life beneath new supervisor Kim Hyun-seok with the go to of A-League Males facet Melbourne Metropolis. They accomplish that sitting simply contained in the qualification group for the Spherical of 16, however might want to begin choosing up wins if they’re to achieve the knockouts. The Horangi misplaced 3-1 away to Machida Zelvia of their final ACL outing, and are on a run of three with no win. Metropolis, in the meantime, sit fourth having put collectively a run of 4 matches unbeaten with three victories. Their most up-to-date outing was a really credible 1-1 draw away to FC Seoul. Domestically, Melbourne Metropolis are seventh within the desk following 5 wins, seven attracts and 5 losses, with simply two wins of their final six, nevertheless. On Saturday, Metropolis performed out a 1-1 draw with Western Sydney Wanderers.

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Ulsan rank fifth for pictures heading in the right direction per match with 4.8, however might want to enhance their conversion charge which stands at simply 7.8%. The Horangi have additionally discovered it exhausting to create significant probabilities, rating seventh for large probabilities with 12 and simply 5 objectives scored. Metropolis have been medical with seven objectives scored from 10 large probabilities, however 2.5 pictures heading in the right direction per match may not be sustainable. If Ulsan can defend nicely towards their A-League counterparts, they might emerge with all three factors.

Darijan Bojanic can be key to Ulsan once more this season and certainly this Wednesday. The Swede is first for correct passes per 90 at 68.9, whereas Max Caputo, regardless of being on the bench towards Wanderers on the weekend, is Metropolis’s prime scorer domestically with six and has two objectives in ACLE to date. It’s going to be the first-ever assembly between the 2 groups, however Ulsan have a file of 9 wins, three attracts and three losses versus Australian opposition, and are unbeaten of their final 9, whereas Metropolis have two wins and one draw from simply three conferences.

AFC Champions League Two Spherical of 16

Thursday twelfth February

Pohang Steelers vs. Gamba Osaka (JPN) – 19:00

In AFC Champions League Two, Pohang Steelers host Gamba Osaka on Thursday within the first leg of their Spherical of 16 tie. Pohang gained 4 of their six Group H matches, dropping only one however face a Gamba Osaka facet that gained all six of their Group F matches, maintaining 4 clear sheets and conceding simply two objectives. Gamba completed ninth within the J1 final season and managed simply 5 away wins from 19 matches. They started the brand new home marketing campaign with a 0-0 draw within the Osaka derby, however gained 5-4 on penalties, in what turned out to be a ten vs. 10 affair with Takeru Kishimoto despatched off on 84 minutes and Hayato Tanaka for Cerezo.

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Thursday’s contest would possibly show to be a good affair with each groups boasting stable defenses, conceding simply two objectives every up to now. Pohang have racked up probably the most possession up to now with 69.7%, whereas Gamba rank third in that regard with 68.6%, having each performed towards groups that defended in low blocks. Pohang rank third for pictures heading in the right direction per match with 6.5, whereas Gamba are the competitors’s finest passers wth 581.2 correct passes per match.

Pohang confronted Gamba within the 2012 ACL group stage, incomes two wins – 2-0 at dwelling and 3-0 away. Gamba have a file of eight wins, six attracts and 11 losses towards Ok League opposition over time, with the latest conferences being towards Jeonbuk in 2021. In Korea, Gamba’s file reads three wins, three attracts, and 5 losses.

February 9, 2026 0 comments

LALIGA

Actual Madrid vs Valencia: Match preview, kick-off time and TV particulars for La Liga conflict

by Soccer-News February 8, 2026

written by Soccer-News

Mestalla awaits as Actual Madrid look to reply in tight title race

Actual Madrid vs Valencia: Match preview, kick-off time and TV particulars for La Liga conflict

Actual Madrid face Valencia at Mestalla on Sunday as Alvaro Arbeloa resumes his La Liga marketing campaign with the title race open.

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Actual Madrid return to La Liga motion on Sunday 1 February with tough away journey towards Valencia.

The match can be performed at Mestalla as a part of matchday 23 of the 2025 /26 season.

The sport marks one other vital take a look at for Madrid beneath head coach Alvaro Arbeloa because the membership seems to maintain stress on the leaders within the title race.

League positions and up to date outcomes

Actual Madrid go into the match in second place with 54 level sitting 4 level behind Barcelona.

The leaders strengthened their place on Saturday with 3-0 win over Mallorca taking their whole to 58 level.

Valencia in the meantime are preventing on the different finish of the desk.

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The hosts are sixteenth with 23 level and each result’s very important as they attempt to transfer away from the relegation zone.

Enjoying at dwelling, Valencia will look to make use of the Mestalla ambiance to bother one of many league’s strongest sides.

What’s at stake for each groups

For Actual Madrid, the match is about staying within the title race. Dropping factors might widen the hole on the high whereas a win would hold the stress firmly on Barcelona.

For Valencia, the main target is on survival. Dealing with high opponent brings danger but in addition alternative particularly at dwelling.

A constructive outcome might give them main increase in confidence and factors at essential stage of the season.

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The match will kick off at 8:00 PM GMT

It is going to be broadcast on a number of platforms:

ESPNAnd regional sports activities networks throughout Europe, the Center East and Africa:beIN Sports activities 1beIN Sports activities HD 2beIN Sports activities FrenchESPN2ESPN DeportesfuboTVStartimes Sports activities PremiumSuperSport MáXimo 3

February 8, 2026 0 comments

Serie A

Spherical 24: Juventus vs. Lazio match preview

by Soccer-News February 7, 2026

written by Soccer-News

By way of the primary 5 weeks of 2026, there was little or no time for Juventus gamers and coaches to gather their collective breath. That’s very true of those previous few weeks the place midweek fixtures have been a relentless and Luciano Spalletti has had maneuver by issues in a number of competitions whereas having a squad that isn’t precisely flush with depth.

In order Juventus hit their final fixture earlier than they get — gasp! — almost every week off in between video games, we’re left to marvel simply how a lot the Bianconeri have left within the tank after their (late) midweek Coppa Italia disappointment in Bergamo.

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Because the second Derby d’Italia towards league leaders Inter Milan looms within the distance every week from now, the instant take a look at comes towards a Lazio squad that has seen loads of frustration filter all through the membership each earlier than and through the 2025-26 season. Sunday evening’s matchup on the Allianz Stadium comes towards an opponent in Lazio that with a 1-0 victory over Juventus on the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. So much has occurred in November, December, January and the primary week of February since Juventus final confronted Lazio, ousted Tudor and subsequently introduced in Spalletti. Lots of it has been good, however there’s been a good quantity of these “not nice” moments we’ve seen a very good quantity of the time from the Bianconeri over the previous few years.

The newest of that, no matter the way you felt in regards to the remaining rating in Bergamo, got here on Thursday evening within the quarterfinals of the Coppa Italia towards Atalanta, the second straight season that Juve have been bounced at that stage of the competitors. (The primary time since such an incidence has occurred since 2011, by the best way.)

So all of three days after being eradicated from the Coppa, it’s now time to face a Lazio squad that has seen a couple of adjustments occur over the course of the winter switch window after their summer time embargo prevented them from doing any form of enterprise. Lazio enter Matchday 24 sitting in eighth place and nicely off the tempo for a European qualification spot.

Nonetheless, right here’s one thing necessary to recollect in the case of this matchup:

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Juventus, following their Coppa Italia quarterfinal towards Atalanta, final performed on Thursday.

Lazio, in the meantime, has but to play a recreation in February, having final taken the sphere of their wild 3-2 win over Genoa on Jan. 30.

So, go forward and do the fast math, of us. Come Sunday, Juventus can have final performed three days in the past. Lazio, although? Effectively, they final performed 9 days in the past. 9! That’s almost every week and a half price of relaxation. That’s almost every week extra of relaxation than the group they are going to be enjoying on the Allianz Stadium. Juventus can have performed two full video games for the reason that final time Lazio performed.

Ah, Serie A scheduling. At all times essentially the most logical and type set of oldsters who determine all of this out.

Contemplating Juventus are quick on depth even when they’re full power, it’s not like Spalletti has an entire lot of choices to select from. Even with so many video games during the last three or 4 weeks, Spalletti hasn’t performed a lot rotating his squad. All of his greatest gamers, irrespective of what number of minutes they’ve had on their leg earlier than 2026 arrived, have performed nearly all of the minutes. We’re nonetheless ready for Pierre Kalulu to truly not play a full 90 minutes this season — and we’re getting into the third fixture of February.

That looks like virtually as a lot of a take a look at as going through a determined Lazio itself. Simply how a lot that Juve have within the tank getting into Sunday evening’s recreation goes to be an actual key level of emphasis to concentrate to because the minutes tick away each earlier than and after halftime on the Allianz.

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Lazio are mainly in the identical place within the desk now as they have been after they confronted Juventus the primary time. Even after beating Juventus on Oct. 26, Maurizio Sarri’s squad was sitting in tenth place. Now, sitting in eighth, they’re virtually near being a part of a relegation battle (17) as they’re to being even with Juventus in fourth (15). Lazio’s away kind has been mediocre at greatest all season, with Serie A juggernauts like Sassuolo and Udinese having extra factors than Sarri has recorded away from the Olimpico within the 2025-26 marketing campaign to this point.

The kicker in all of this: Regardless that they sit eighth within the desk, they’ve scored the seventh-fewest quantity of targets (24 in 23 video games) this season and simply bought considered one of their higher strikers, Taty Castellanos, to West Ham final month for a reported €29 million. (Which, actually, looks like a reasonably good return for Lazio and their accounts.)

Even with the loss to Atalanta midweek, Juventus have been enjoying nicely on the entire. Now they’ve a still-inconsistent Lazio squad coming to Turin as each groups look to get an necessary three factors for his or her respective targets. With no extra Coppa Italia, solidifying their spot within the high 4 would possibly in all probability turns into much more of a precedence for Spalletti than earlier than. They acquired the assistance they wanted from Udinese earlier within the week towards Roma and now have fourth place all to themselves.

It’s now about what they do with it. Can Juventus maintain it for themselves, or will this be one other slip-up that makes the Coppa Italia quarterfinal loss look greater than only a one-off towards a very good like like Atalanta.

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TEAM NEWS

Spalletti, not like forward of Thursday evening’s go to to Bergamo, did maintain a pre-match press convention on Saturday. The truth that he’s just about choosing and selecting when to truly converse to the Italian media earlier than video games is making me giggle a bit bit. (But in addition makes this part a bit tougher to do.)

After not collaborating in Thursday’s loss to Atalanta within the Coppa Italia, Spalletti confirmed that Kenan Yildiz and massive smile because of his model new contract will return to the lineup to face Lazio. Yildiz requested to be subbed off at halftime in final weekend’s win over Parma because of a minor overload problem that was possible the results of fatigue of his heavy workload this season.

Spalletti mentioned that each Francisco Conceição and Lloyd Kelly have educated individually following Thursday’s loss to Atalanta within the Coppa Italia and want additional analysis to see if they are going to be able to enjoying in Sunday’s recreation towards Lazio.

The 2 certain bets to overlook out on Sunday evening’s recreation are the 2 names who’ve been ever-present on the damage checklist for a few months now: Dusan Vllahovic and Arek Milik.

Vlahovic has, nevertheless, reportedly returned to Continassa this week and began the ultimate steps of his rehab program that can hopefully have him again within the squad in early March.

Two Juventus gamers are one yellow card away from having to serve a one-game suspension: Manuel Locatelli and Weston McKennie. Contemplating Juventus’ subsequent opponent in Serie A is Inter, this looks like an necessary factor to recollect for each gamers who’ve been key items to Spalletti’s success at Juventus.

JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH

Contemplating the truth that Spalletti has gone with a whole lot of the identical gamers in his latest beginning lineups, I used to be going to go forward and discuss a sure French midfielder who has had a few off video games simply when it appeared like he was beginning to kick on form-wise.

Then any person went and signed a brand new contract.

So if you mix that with the easy incontrovertible fact that Spalletti mentioned Juve’s No. 10 will probably be returning to the lineup, it feels solely proper that we discuss in regards to the brightest of vivid stars at present carrying a Juventus jersey.

Yildiz was part of the touring squad to Bergamo forward of the Coppa Italia quarterfinals. He was on the bench. Heck, he was even warming up through the second half and looking out he may even be a late sub earlier than issues acquired utterly out of attain and Atalanta went on to stretch their lead past 1-0. Possibly it was all a part of the plan by Spalletti to try to do a little bit of a deke and make Raffaele Palladino suppose a bit bit greater than he already was.

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However there’s no query as as to if Yildiz will probably be taking the sphere on Sunday evening.

And as I kind this out, I can solely think about what sort of reception he will probably be getting when he’s first introduced or the primary few occasions on the ball figuring out what has simply taken place earlier this weekend in the case of committing his future to a membership that he really loves.

Would seeing Yildiz face Inter subsequent weekend figuring out he was on two weeks price of relaxation be one thing extremely engaging? Oh, completely. This younger man has performed so many good issues this season with a whole lot upon a whole lot of minutes in his legs each week, so are you able to think about what it might be like after a few weeks price of relaxation? That could be a good proposition, however clearly one the place it’s extra for our respective thought processes fairly than a actuality that can play out.

You recognize Yildiz will probably be fired as much as be again on the sphere after lacking out on Thursday’s loss to Atalanta. Plus, he will probably be fired as much as have a big-time efficiency the day after he signed his massive new contract as nicely. The younger man solely be 20 years outdated, however he’s nicely conscious of the second and his place in it. What a greater strategy to say he’s price of mentioned new contract and the massive pay increase that comes with it than to assist Juventus to a giant three factors at a time during which they’re trying to get again on monitor after a troublesome loss.

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One recreation towards eighth-place Lazio gained’t outline simply how worthy Yildiz is of this new contract. However you higher consider he needs to start out this run of his new contract so much like he did with the final one he signed about 18 months in the past.

MATCH INFO

When: Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026.

The place: Allianz Stadium, Turin, Italy.

Official kickoff time: 8:45 p.m. native time in Italy and throughout Europe, 7:45 p.m. in the UK, 2:45 p.m. Japanese time, 1:45 p.m. Central time, 11:45 a.m. Pacific time.

HOW TO WATCH

Tv: Fox Deportes (United States); TLN (Canada); TNT Sports activities 1 (United Kingdom).

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On-line/Streaming: , CBS Sports activities Golazo Community, Amazon Prime USA, DAZN USA, fuboTV, FoxSports.com, Fox Sports activities app, Fox One (United States); DAZN Canada; fubo Sports activities Community Canada (Canada); DAZN UK (United Kingdom); DAZN Italy (Italy).

Different reside viewing choices could be discovered , and as at all times, you may also observe together with us reside and all of the silly issues we are saying . If you happen to haven’t already, on Black & White & Learn All Over, and be part of within the dialogue under.

February 7, 2026 0 comments

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