UCL: Juventus Bids Farewell to Champions League, Eyes Serie A Push

Heartbreak in Turin, juve bows out of Champions League

Juventus exits Champions League after thrilling 7-5 aggregate loss to Galatasaray, with players applauded off by fans despite heartbreaking defeat.

“We're upset and disappointed after the effort put in and what we showed today...”

Juventus is still reeling from their heartbreaking Champions League exit, losing 7-5 on aggregate to Galatasaray despite a valiant comeback attempt with 10 men. The Italians were trailing 5-2 from the first leg, making their 3-2 win in the second leg not enough to secure a spot in the last 16.

The match was a thrilling ride, with Juventus scoring through Manuel Locatelli, Federico Gatti, and Weston McKennie, but Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen and Baris Alper Yilmaz scored crucial goals in extra time to seal the win. Juve captain Manuel Locatelli expressed his disappointment, saying “I feel like crying ”

Juventus' elimination from the competition was especially painful given their superb performance. Goals from Manuel Locatelli, Federico Gatti, and Weston McKenne took the tie to extra time amidst a cacophony of noise. Victor Osimhen and Baris Yilmaz netted in extra time, sending Juve out.

Captain Manuel Locatelli was devastated, admitting: “I feel like crying.” The midfielder's words summed up the disappointment, with Locatelli adding that the team's performance deserved a better fate. Juve's exit leaves fans heartbroken, but proud of the fight shown by the team.

“All I know is that we put our souls into that match, we gave everything we had,” said Locatelli.

"We're on the right track with the coach and I think you can see that, even if we've lost in our recent matches.”

Juve received a standing ovation from their fans after a thrilling display that will boost their chances of qualifying for next season's Champions League. The Turin giants are currently fifth in Serie A, four points behind fourth-placed Roma, with a tough trip to the capital club on Sunday.

What a tie 🥵#UCL pic.twitter.com/tGvJQRP581

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 25, 2026

Juve legend Giorgio Chiellini was left wanting more, especially with Galatasaray set to face either Liverpool or Tottenham in the next round. “It's always hard to say goodbye to these competitions, especially when you feel like you deserved more”  Chiellini said, reflecting on the team's exit.

“We're upset and disappointed after the effort put in and what we showed today,” said Chiellini, now a club official.

“What we did today should be a starting point for the remainder of the season.”