Juventus' missed chance costs Europa League lead against Rennes
Juventus were denied a win at the Allianz Stadium on Thursday 22 October, drawing 2‑2 with Rennes (FRA) in the third round of the Europa League Fase. The result drops the Italian side to fourth place with seven points, while the French visitors remain unbeaten on five points in thirteenth.
Juventus' missed opportunities
Juventus opened the scoring in the fifth minute when Celik finished from a Woltemade cross, giving the Old Lady a 1‑0 advantage. The team lined up in a 3‑5‑2 shape after a dressing‑room request, pairing Woltemade with Kolo Muani up front. Woltemade, who has now scored three goals in as many Europa League matches, continued to threaten the opposition. The Italians pressed for a second goal but were held at bay until half‑time.
Rennes answered quickly, with Al‑Taamari equalising at the 14th minute after a swift exchange of passes. The visitors then took the lead before the break when Dia converted a penalty in the 42nd minute, after VAR confirmed a handball by Douglas Luiz. Throughout the first half the French side kept pressing, forcing Juventus into several defensive actions. The French side held the advantage into the interval.
Early in the second half, Lucumi appeared to restore Juventus' lead, but VAR ruled the strike off for off‑side. A second penalty was awarded when Douglas Luiz handled a cross, and Woltemade calmly slotted it away in the 67th minute. Referee Morten Krogh (DEN) had initially signalled no foul, but VAR consultant Benjamin Brand (AUT) intervened to overturn the decision. The match ended with both sides level despite several chances.
Rennes hold off Juventus in Turin thanks to Al‑Tamari
Standings shift and upcoming fixtures
The draw means Juve lose the Liga Europa lead, falling to fourth place with seven points, while Rennes stay unbeaten on five points in thirteenth position. Rennes have recorded two draws and one victory so far, keeping them in the 13th spot of the competition. Juventus' unbeaten run in the tournament ends, leaving them to chase the leaders.
Juventus, currently eighth in Serie A, next face Lecce away on 25 October, then travel to Genoa on 28 October before hosting Napoli on 1 November. Their Europa League campaign resumes on 5 November against AZ Alkmaar. Rennes will host Strasbourg on 25 October, travel to Nice on 31 October and meet Olympiacos at home on 5 November.
Juve, note the left winger who has driven the Old Lady crazy
The contrast between Juventus' missed chances and Rennes' tenacity underlines how a single point can reshape the Liga Europa race, leaving both clubs with clear objectives in the weeks ahead. Each side will look to convert the draw into a win in their upcoming fixtures.