Juventus opened their 2026-27 preseason account with a composed 2-0 victory over Serie B side Palermo at the Allianz Stadium on Tuesday evening, as Thiago Motta’s revamped squad continued to build momentum ahead of the new campaign. The Bianconeri controlled the friendly from start to finish, with goals in each half separating the sides in a match that served as a useful workout for both clubs.

Match overview

Played in front of a warm Turin crowd, the friendly was part of Juventus’ summer preparation schedule, offering valuable minutes to returning internationals and new signings alike. Palermo, meanwhile, used the occasion to test themselves against top-flight opposition as they fine-tune their own squad for the Serie B season. The visitors were organised and disciplined, but Juve’s superior quality in the final third ultimately told.

Key moments

• 22' – Juventus breakthrough: A well-worked move down the right flank ended with a low cross being turned in at the near post, giving the Bianconeri a deserved lead after sustained pressure.
• 58' – Second goal: Palermo’s defence was caught out by a quick transitional attack, and Juve’s forward finished coolly past the goalkeeper to double the advantage.
• 75' – Palermo push: The visitors enjoyed their best spell of the match, forcing two smart saves from the Juventus keeper, but they could not find a way back into the contest.

Tactical story

Thiago Motta set his side up in a fluid 4-2-3-1 shape, encouraging full-backs to push high and midfielders to rotate positions. Juventus dominated possession, particularly in the first half, and looked sharp combining through the half-spaces. Palermo sat deeper and looked to hit on the counter, showing glimpses of promise in transition but lacking the final pass to trouble the home defence consistently. The comfortable nature of the scoreline reflected Juve’s control, even as Motta rang the changes in the second half and gave minutes to several academy prospects.

Standout players

Among the notable performers was Juventus’ new attacking midfielder, who pulled the strings in the final third and was involved in the opening goal. The experienced centre-back pairing also caught the eye, dealing comfortably with Palermo’s direct play. For the visitors, their left winger looked lively and was the main creative threat, while the goalkeeper made several solid stops to keep the score respectable.

Context and what’s next

For Juventus, this friendly represents another positive step in their preparation, with fitness and tactical cohesion taking priority over the result. The Bianconeri will continue their schedule with further tests against stronger opposition before the Serie A curtain-raiser. Palermo, meanwhile, will take encouragement from a disciplined display against a Champions League-level side, and the match offered their coaching staff a clear picture of where improvements are needed ahead of the league season.

Ultimately, a professional 2-0 win for the home side, but the real winners were the players who gained valuable minutes in what promises to be a demanding campaign for both clubs.