Tue Dec 17 20:10:24 UTC 2024: ## Juventus Face Coppa Italia Test Amidst Serie A Slump

**Turin, Italy** – Facing mounting pressure after a dismal start to their Serie A campaign, Juventus begin their Coppa Italia title defense on Tuesday against Cagliari. The match marks a crucial opportunity for the Bianconeri, who enter the last 16 following their European commitments, to salvage some silverware.

Juventus, currently enduring their worst home start since 1988, are winless in their last four league games, including a 2-2 draw against bottom-placed Venezia on Saturday. The team’s performance has led to boos from fans, highlighting the growing discontent. While unbeaten in domestic competition, their six wins in 16 rounds leave them nine points behind league leaders Atalanta. Their Champions League form provides a slight contrast, with a recent 2-0 victory over Manchester City.

Cagliari, meanwhile, have navigated two Coppa Italia rounds to reach this stage, defeating Carrarese and Cremonese. Their Serie A form is equally challenging, fighting relegation just above the drop zone. Their most recent match saw a narrow 1-0 defeat to Atalanta. A Coppa Italia win against Juventus would represent a significant upset.

Juventus manager Thiago Motta, returning from a touchline ban, is expected to rotate his squad, potentially starting summer signing Nico Gonzalez. Star striker Dusan Vlahovic, Juve’s top scorer, is set to feature. Cagliari’s Davide Nicola may also make changes, missing winger Zito Luvumbo due to injury.

Despite Juventus’s struggles, they remain heavy favorites. Cagliari’s poor away record, with only one league win on the mainland this season, further strengthens Juventus’s chances. The winner advances to face Empoli in the quarterfinals. The match promises a compelling clash, with both teams looking to secure a vital victory for contrasting reasons.

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