The Forward Line
Igor Tudor Takes Charge at Juventus
Juventus enters the post-international break era with a managerial change, replacing Thiago Motta with Igor Tudor. Tudor`s first match will be against Genoa on Saturday. He is expected to revitalize the team after Motta`s disappointing tenure, marked by numerous draws in Serie A. A key challenge for Tudor will be improving Juventus`s performance.
Tudor faces numerous questions as he selects his initial Juventus lineup, particularly in attack and midfield. The team`s struggles to win are linked to their low goal-scoring record, having scored only 28 goals in 29 Serie A games this season. Attention will be on forwards Dusan Vlahovic and Randal Kolo Muani, who have scored nine and five league goals, respectively. There`s hope Tudor can unlock their potential as a duo. Michael Lahoud from Morning Footy suggested Motta did not maximize their partnership, a situation Tudor might improve.
- Lahoud: `Before Thiago Motta`s dismissal, a central question around Juventus was whether Randal Kolo Muani and Vlahovic could effectively play together. Motta attempted this but misutilized Kolo Muani`s versatility by deploying him out wide. Many, including myself, hoped to see them as a front two, which seems likely under Igor Tudor. Tudor`s approach typically involves a back three formation, often a 3-4-3. However, with Juventus`s attacking midfielders, a 3-5-2 formation might emerge, providing support to a front two.`
The midfield composition is equally crucial, especially concerning USMNT players Weston McKennie and Timothy Weah. Both have played various roles under Motta. Weah often featured as a wing-back, while McKennie was versatile. McKennie`s position under Tudor is uncertain, though midfield, his natural role, is a possibility, a position he played even under Motta.
Midfield Link Play
Manchester City`s FA Cup Opportunity
The Premier League takes a backseat as the FA Cup quarterfinals take center stage. Manchester City is the sole remaining “Big Six” club in the competition. The FA Cup might be their best chance for silverware this season. However, they face strong Premier League teams and a lower-league team aiming to extend their cup run.
Manchester City will play Bournemouth on Sunday for a semifinal spot at Wembley. Despite an inconsistent season, City are favorites, boasting world-class players like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. However, Bournemouth previously defeated City 2-1 in November, highlighting their capabilities. Bournemouth, and others, may draw inspiration from Newcastle United`s EFL Cup win. Bournemouth`s manager, Andoni Iraola, is reportedly a candidate for the Tottenham Hotspur job, adding another layer to this match.
Another notable game is Aston Villa versus Preston North End, the last lower-league team in the FA Cup. Villa are favored and view the FA Cup as a realistic trophy target alongside their Champions League quarterfinal appearance. Villa could be a strong contender for the FA Cup should they advance, making this Sunday`s game crucial for both teams.
Top Stories
- WCQ Rewind: A recap of winners and losers from the recent international window in 2026 World Cup qualifying.
- Real Madrid Investigation: UEFA is investigating Real Madrid players (Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger, Dani Ceballos) for `indecent conduct` after their win against Atletico Madrid.
- Ancelotti to Brazil?: Brazil considers Carlo Ancelotti for their national team coach, potentially fitting due to his relationship with Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
- Davies’ ACL Debate: Alphonso Davies` agent and Canada Soccer dispute responsibility for his ACL injury, sidelining him for six months.
- U-23 USWNT Roster: Gisele Thompson, Makenna Morris, and others selected for the U-23 USWNT camp, crucial for 2027 World Cup preparations under Emma Hayes.
- Coventry’s Rise: Coventry City aims for Premier League promotion playoffs after a turnaround under Frank Lampard.
- CWC Prize Money: FIFA may award $125 million to the Club World Cup winner, part of a $1 billion prize fund exceeding the 2022 World Cup`s $440 million.
- Carnell on Messi: Philadelphia Union coach Bradley Carnell discussed defending Lionel Messi before their Inter Miami match.
- Gasperini to Roma?: Gian Piero Gasperini of Atalanta is linked to Roma, but caution is advised before any move.
The Back Line
Best Bets
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NWSL: Washington Spirit vs. Bay FC, Friday 8 p.m.
The Pick: Washington Spirit to win (+130) – Washington Spirit are favored at home against Bay FC in the NWSL. -
La Liga: Real Madrid vs. Leganes, Saturday 4 p.m.
The Pick: Real Madrid to score 2+ goals in the first half (+148) – Real Madrid is expected to start strong against Leganes in La Liga.
For more betting tips, visit betting home page.
What`s on CBS Sports Golazo Network
- Morning Footy (Weekdays 8-10 a.m.): Flagship morning show with soccer highlights and interviews, also available as a podcast.
- Attacking Third (Monday, Thursday): Women`s soccer show covering NWSL, USWNT, and European leagues, with live streams on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. ET on YouTube.
- Call it What You Want (Monday and Thursday): Podcast on USMNT and US soccer, live on YouTube Mondays at 1 p.m. ET and Thursdays at 6 p.m. ET.
- Scoreline (Daily): News, results, and highlights from global football, airing daily.
- How to watch: CBS Sports Golazo Network is a free 24/7 soccer channel, streamable on CBS Sports app, Pluto TV, and Paramount+.
Dominic Ashworth