Heavyweight clash in Italy

One heavyweight will exit the Champions League tonight as Juventus tackle Bayern Munich, knowing only one side will take the second spot Group B.

Juventus only need a point to ensure their progress to the knockout stage and a repeat of the scoreline at the Allianz Arena would do them nicely when the sides played out a goalless draw.

The Old Lady are without two of their most influential players however tonight for the clash at Olimpico. Gigi Buffon and centre-half Giorgio Chiellini are both out, with the goalkeeper out till after the New Year. The Italian stopper is due to have surgery on a troublesome knee injury this week.

Munich have been struggling domestically, lying fourth in the Bundesliga. A 2-1 home win over Borussia Monchengladbach helped lift some of the pressure on Dutchamn Louis Van Gaal. Only a win will see them through to the next round.

Club president Franz Beckenbauer has given backing to Van Gaal saying: “He is getting the team on the straight and narrow with three wins in a row and his work is starting to pay off.”

Bayern will be without influential Frenchman Franck Ribery, but fellow wing wizard Arjen Robben is fit and has travelled to Turin.

The Dutchman said: “I am fit again and ready for Tuesday. It is an important game and I would love to play from the beginning.”

Juventus’ toppled league leaders Inter at the weekend 2-1 and match winner, Claudio Marchisio said: “With respect to our previous two games, we have shown an improvement in character and determination, we are on the right path after our win against Inter.”

With Juventus missing two of their defensive stalwarts the signs show their could be goals in this match. However with Juve only needing a point, the Italians may look to sit back and soak up pressure looking for that sole point they need for qualification.