Buffon missing Juventus´ Champions League clash

Wojciech Szczesny makes his Champions League debut for Juventus against Olympiacos after Gianluigi Buffon failed to recover from a calf injury in time to play in the pivotal Group D clash.

The absence of veteran goalkeeper Buffon is a blow for the Italian side, particularly as they are also without defender Giorgio Chiellini for the game in Greece.

However, Miralem Pjanic – who was doubtful due to a muscle strain – is fit enough to take a seat on Juve’s bench.

Szczesny has yet to feature in Europe this season but has played five times in Serie A, with his most recent appearance coming in the 3-2 loss to Sampdoria on November 19.

Head coach Massimiliano Allegri is able to name Mario Mandzukic as a substitute, with the forward back again after missing last Friday’s 1-0 win away at Napoli.

Gonzalo Higuain starts up front as Juve look to secure a victory over the Greek champions that will see them qualify for the knockout stages of the competition.

Anything but a win, though, and Sporting CP – who travel to Camp Nou to face Barcelona – could climb above them to take second place.

Juventus XI: Szczesny; De Sciglio, Barzagli, Benatia, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Matuidi; Cuadrado, Dybala, Douglas Costa; Higuain

Subs: Pinsoglio, Rugani, Asamoah, Pjanic, Marchisio, Bernardeschi, Mandzukic#OLYJuve #ForzaJuve

— JuventusFC (@juventusfc) December 5, 2017