Juventus and Borussia Dortmund played out a stunning 4-4 draw in Turin in their opening Champions League fixture of the 2025/26 season.
Juventus arrived in confident form, having defeated Borussia Dortmund in pre-season and overcome Inter Milan at the weekend. Yet, Dortmund, unbeaten so far this season, proved a formidable challenge. From the outset, both sides engaged in fast, incisive football, signalling a high-intensity contest rather than a cautious opener.
Juventus started brightly, spurred on by their home fans, but struggled to convert early chances. Jonathan David impressed with his work rate but could not deliver a decisive finish, leaving the crowd anxious as the first half ended goalless.
The deadlock was broken early in the second half when Karim Adeyemi punished Juventus’ missed opportunities with a composed finish. Juventus responded quickly as Kenan Yildiz equalised 11 minutes later. However, Dortmund regained the lead almost immediately following a momentary lapse in concentration from the hosts.
The match evolved into a goal fest. Dusan Vlahovic restored parity at 2-2, keeping Juventus in contention. Yet, Dortmund struck twice more, first through Yan Couto and then from a Ramy Bensebaini penalty, taking a 4-2 lead. Juventus looked vulnerable at that point, but changes from the bench revitalised the side.
Edon Zhegrova brought fresh energy, and Vlahovic’s superb volley reduced the deficit deep into added time. Moments later, Lloyd Kelly struck to secure a remarkable 4-4 draw, completing an extraordinary turnaround in the final minutes.
