UEFA Women's Champions League: Wolfsburg vs Juventus. Preview, H2H, and probable lineups — February 12, 2026
VfL Wolfsburg
Juventus
On Thursday, February 12, the 2025/26 UEFA Women's Champions League hits the home stretch. In the first leg of the playoff round at the Volkswagen Arena, two European powerhouses clash: German side Wolfsburg host Italian giants Juventus.
Match preview
Wolfsburg, two-time winners of the tournament, are showing their teeth this season, though they no longer look like the unstoppable force of years past. The Wolves finished only 9th in the group stage, which landed them in these knockout playoffs. Nevertheless, Stephan Lerch's squad are in fine form: on February 2 they edged out Cologne (2-1) and currently sit second in the Bundesliga. The team relies on the physical dominance and experience of Alexandra Popp, who, at 34, remains a constant aerial threat.
Under Massimiliano Canzi, Juventus have finally matured into a club capable of big achievements. They finished above the Germans in the group (8th place), displaying a more balanced style of football. Last Saturday, the Bianconere dispatched Como in routine fashion (2-0). The main weapon in Turin’s arsenal is tactical flexibility. Cristiana Girelli remains the benchmark for finishing, while young Chiara Beccari injects the attack with much-needed unpredictability. For Juve, this is a chance to prove that Italian women's football has truly joined the elite.
Tactically, expect a showdown between German vertical pressing and Italian discipline. Wolfsburg will press aggressively from the opening whistle, aiming to settle the tie in the first leg. Juventus will likely cede possession, counting on saves from Daniëlle de Jong and swift counter-attacks launched by Arianna Caruso.
Probable lineups
Wolfsburg: Frohms, Wilms, Hendrich, Hegering, Linder, Minge, Huth, Brand, Endemann, Jonsdottir, Popp
Juventus: De Jong, Kullberg, Salvai, Calligaris, Krumbiegel, Schatzer, Caruso, Bonansea, Beccari, Girelli, Vangsgaard
Match facts and head-to-head
- In two head-to-head meetings, Juventus have one win (2-0) and one draw
- Wolfsburg have won four of their last five games, including friendlies
- Juventus are on a five-match winning streak with a combined score of 13-2
Prediction
The bookies have made the German side clear favorites, but I believe the visitors from Turin have what it takes to cause problems. My prediction: Asian handicap Juventus (+1) at 1.93
