Juventus remain without a win in this season’s UEFA Champions League after being held to a 1-1 draw by Sporting CP at the Allianz Stadium in Turin.
Sporting, who came into the match on a six-game unbeaten run, made a flying start. Maximiliano Araújo opened the scoring in the 12th minute, with a shot that bounced off the post and into the net. Just two minutes later, Francisco Trincão came close to doubling their lead, hitting the bar with a powerful strike.
Juventus quickly needed a response, and striker Dušan Vlahović led the way. Early in the first half, he tested Sporting goalkeeper Rui Silva twice with dangerous headers. Eventually, the Serbian forward got the equaliser, poking home from close range after a precise pass from Khéphren Thuram.
Before half-time, Juventus nearly went ahead as Francisco Conceição’s shot was deflected just wide, ending an exciting first half.
The second half was less intense. Juventus struggled with finishing and composure, while Sporting defended well and soaked up the pressure. In the final 10 minutes, Juventus managed only two long-range shots, which were easily saved by Silva. In stoppage time, Jonathan David almost snatched victory for the hosts, but Silva made another superb stop.
The draw leaves Juventus just inside the top 24 in the Champions League, although many other teams have games in hand. Despite a difficult start to the season and a managerial change, Juventus have now gone 11 games unbeaten at home across all competitions. Sporting rise into the top 10, having lost only once in their first four group matches.
