Game Preview

AC Milan faces Liverpool in a highly anticipated Champions League clash at the iconic San Siro. Milan comes off a strong 4-0 victory against Venezia but has struggled with inconsistency and defensive issues this season. Under new manager Paulo Fonseca, Milan is yet to find stability. Liverpool, on the other hand, is aiming to recover from a surprising 1-0 domestic loss to Nottingham Forest and adapt to a new Champions League format where every match is crucial. This game serves as a critical opportunity for both teams to set the tone for their European campaigns.

Key Stats & Insights

  • AC Milan has conceded 2 or more goals in 7 of their last 10 home matches, signaling defensive fragility.
  • Liverpool has scored 2 or more goals in 8 of their past 10 away matches, showcasing their attacking prowess.
  • Liverpool has won 12 of their past 20 matches overall, underlining their consistent form.
  • In their last seven encounters, Liverpool leads with a 5-2 advantage over AC Milan.

Team Form and Performance

  • AC Milan: The Rossoneri have registered just 2 wins, 3 losses, and 5 draws in their last 10 league games, with an average of 2.2 goals scored per game. Despite maintaining a solid 59% possession rate, Milan’s defense has been porous, conceding an average of 1.8 goals per game.
  • Liverpool: The Reds have been in better form, securing 6 wins in their last 10 matches and averaging 2.1 goals per game. With a higher possession rate of 62.2%, Liverpool has displayed dominance in play, although their recent loss indicates potential vulnerabilities.

Head-to-Head Records

Liverpool has historically dominated this fixture, with a 5-2 advantage in seven meetings. Their last encounter at San Siro ended in a 2-1 victory for Liverpool. This history gives Liverpool a psychological edge, but Milan’s desire to overturn this trend should make for a competitive match.

Player Form and Availability

  • AC Milan: Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao lead the team’s attack, contributing with crucial goals and assists. However, Milan will be without key players Ismaël Bennacer, Alessandro Florenzi, and Malick Thiaw due to injuries, potentially impacting their defensive solidity.
  • Liverpool: Mohamed Salah has been in excellent form, contributing 4 goals and 4 assists in his last 10 games. Despite the absence of Harvey Elliott due to injury, Liverpool’s attack remains potent. Curtis Jones’ return to fitness provides more options in midfield.

Predicted Lineups

  • AC Milan: Maignan; Emerson Royal, Gabbia, Pavlovic, Hernandez; Loftus-Cheek, Reijnders, Fofana; Pulisic, Leao, Abraham. Fonseca’s pragmatic approach with a 4-2-3-1 formation aims to balance offensive potential with defensive cover.
  • Liverpool: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Diaz, Jota. Klopp is likely to make strategic adjustments, including the possible introduction of Jel K Quanza in defense to manage player workload.

Market Analysis (Odds)

  • Liverpool to Win: -110 (52% implied probability)
  • AC Milan to Win: +270
  • Draw: +290
  • Over 2.5 Goals: Favored, suggesting an expectation of a high-scoring match.
  • Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes at -200


Check the latest odds at our trusted sportsbooks in India: Parimatch 

Predictions

  • Correct Score Prediction: AC Milan 1-2 Liverpool. Liverpool’s attacking depth and historical success against Milan give them the edge.
  • Betting Tips: Liverpool to win at -110 offers value given their superior form and head-to-head record against Milan. Another potential bet is Liverpool with a -1.5 handicap for those expecting a more decisive win.
  • Value Bet: A double chance on AC Milan at -120.48 could be a solid option considering Milan’s potential to rally at home and exploit Liverpool’s recent vulnerabilities.

Check out our previous match preview for Liverpool.