Zenit St Petersburg vs Juventus Predictions

• Both teams have scored in ten of the last 13 Zenit St Petersburg matches.
• Both teams have scored in three of Juventus’ five away games in 2021-22.
• Zenit have scored 14 and conceded five in their last six home games while Juventus have scored ten and conceded six in their last five aways.

Pivotal group game is a must-not-lose affair

Zenit St Petersburg should not be underestimated when in-form Juventus travel to Russia for a pivotal Champions League Group H clash on Wednesday.

The Russian champions are level with the Old Lady on three points apiece after two matchdays with the two sides having enjoyed contrasting fortunes against the other teams in the group.

While Juve began badly with a 3-0 reverse at Malmo, Zenit were pushing Chelsea all the way in a narrow loss at Stamford Bridge. Then, a fortnight later, Zenit battered the Swedes 4-0 at home as the Turin giants turned the holders over with a tactical masterclass.

Sitting deep was the key to Juve’s win over the Blues, but we don’t think they can expect to win that way against Zenit, nor is Massimiliano Allegri likely to play for a draw. Zenitchiki are an attack-minded side that have come unstuck in their last two outings when a red card at home to Sochi cost them dear prior to Arsenal Tula’s stunning 90th minute winner last Saturday.

Juve backers should beware  

Sergei Semak’s side have not played badly in either so we aren’t tempted by the marginal odds against price for Juventus to make it a third defeat in a row. Another aspect to consider is that with Inter coming next on their fixture list, this game isn’t necessarily the biggest of the week for Juve.

A both teams to score bet should have good scope to land as Zenit have been involved in ten such games already this season. Juventus have scored in all five of their away contests so far this season and, although they have tightened up a bit recently, have conceded six on the road too.

Zenit have scored in 11 of their last 12 Champions League home ties – winning seven and only losing four of them, but it’s the 1-1 draw that appeals to us most in correct score betting because Juve have only lost two of their last ten aways at this level and this reeks of being a ‘must-not-lose’ affair.