Juventus failed to secure a vital first win in their Champions League campaign, settling for a disappointing 1-1 draw against Sporting Lisbon in Turin, a result that leaves the Italian giants’ European hopes precarious under new coach Luciano Spalletti.
Sporting took the lead early in the 12th minute when Maximiliano Araujo crashed a fierce strike in off the post.
According to France 24 reporting, the away side was the stronger team in the opening moments, and they were nearly two goals ahead shortly after, with the crossbar denying Francisco Trincao following a deflection.
Juventus eventually rallied and Dusan Vlahovic, who has shown a revival in form, poked home Khephren Thuram’s low cross in the 34th minute to level the score. Despite the equalizer, the result was not enough to kickstart their continental push.
The point means Juventus are “hovering above the elimination places in the league table with just three points from four fixtures in Europe’s elite club competition,” contrasting sharply with Sporting, who sit comfortably in a play-off spot with seven points.
Amidst the European struggle, the focus remains on Vlahovic’s form, and club strategic director Giorgio Chiellini offered a ray of hope regarding the striker’s long-term future, stating that the “door is not closed” for Vlahovic to extend his stay in Turin.
The draw ultimately extended Juve’s winless streak in the competition, cementing their stalling campaign.