Juventus to host NEC Nijmegen at Allianz Stadium in opening UEFA Europa League fixture on September 17

Juventus will welcome NEC Nijmegen to the Allianz Stadium on September 17 for their opening league-phase fixture of the UEFA Europa League 2026-27, with Luciano Spalletti’s side seeking a response after two matches without a positive result.

Juventus arrived at the European opener off the back of a 1-1 draw with AC Milan and a 2-3 loss to Sassuolo in the Serie A 2026-27 campaign, results that left the Old Lady without a win in their last two outings. The hosts will play their first UEL game of the season at home and are described in the source as keen to push for a victory despite confidence that “might not be on the highest side.” Working towards #JuveNEC 💪 pic.twitter.com/pceAsgsxfP

NEC Nijmegen also come into the fixture under pressure, having failed to win in their last three matches, and the Dick Schreuder-led side are noted as needing work in the final third while tightening their defence. The preview warns NEC must shore up those areas or risk problems against Juventus.

Edon Zhegrova is singled out for recent form: the 27-year-old winger from Kosovo was described as the star of the show though “it was not enough for Juventus to avoid defeat against Sassuolo,” completing the most dribbles (3) and the joint-most chances (3) for his side and scoring a sensational brace. The article states he will be looking to help his side once again and that his work rate across the field will be crucial for the visitors.

The preview highlights Darko Nejašmić as a player who can control midfield, contribute goals and provide defensive support. The piece also lists Juventus absentees: Kenan Yildiz, Khephren Thuram, Manuel Locatelli, Juan Cabal, Jeff Ekhator and Jeremie Boga are injured, while Lloyd Kelly is serving a suspension.

NEC will be without Deveron Fonville and Ahmetcan Kaplan due to fitness issues, with Gonzalo Crettaz suspended. The source supplies projected lineups as follows: Juventus — Vicario (GK); Kalulu, Bremer, Lucumi, Celik; Luiz, Koopmeiners; Zhegrova, Gonzalez, Alajbegovic; Kolo Muani. NEC Nijmegen — Polster (GK); Storm, Sandler, Kabar; Tahaui, Geiger, Nejašmić, Bischoff; Lebreton, Chery; Sierhuis.

The preview concludes that Juventus possess a slight edge because of superior squad quality and home advantage, while NEC will be under pressure but intent on competing; the piece’s prediction is Juventus 3-1 NEC Nijmegen.

This clash is scheduled for September 17 at the Allianz Stadium and will be available to viewers in India via Sony Sports Network and SonyLIV; the original source advises following Khel Now on social channels or its apps for further updates.