Champions League | AC Milan v Girona: Match Preview
The iconic San Siro stadium in Milan is set to host a crucial UEFA Champions League encounter as AC Milan welcome Spanish debutants Girona on Wednesday evening. This matchday 7 clash could prove pivotal for both sides as they pursue their European ambitions. The post Champions League | AC Milan v Girona: Match Preview appeared first on FootItalia.com.
The iconic San Siro stadium in Milan is set to host a crucial UEFA Champions League encounter as AC Milan welcome Spanish debutants Girona on Wednesday evening. This matchday 7 clash could prove pivotal for both sides as they pursue their European ambitions.
After a shaky start to their Champions League campaign, AC Milan have found their rhythm, stringing together an impressive four-match winning streak. This resurgence has propelled the Rossoneri to 12 points, putting them in a strong position to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
The Italian giants have shown their mettle with victories against Club Brugge, Real Madrid, Slovan Bratislava, and Red Star Belgrade. Their most recent European outing saw them edge past Red Star with a 2-1 win at home, thanks to goals from Rafael Leao and Tammy Abraham.
While their Champions League form has been stellar, Milan’s domestic performances have been inconsistent. The recent appointment of Sergio Conceicao as head coach has brought some positive changes, including a Supercoppa Italiana triumph. However, a 2-0 defeat to Juventus in their last Serie A fixture highlighted the work still to be done.
In stark contrast to their hosts, Girona have found life in the Champions League challenging. The Catalan club, making their debut in Europe’s elite competition, have managed just one win in six matches, leaving them with a mere three points.
Girona’s sole victory came against Slovan Bratislava, but they have since struggled to find the back of the net. Their away form in the competition has been particularly concerning, losing all three matches without scoring a single goal.
The Spanish side’s domestic form has also been middling, with their recent 2-1 home defeat to Sevilla further dampening spirits. As they prepare for their first-ever competitive match against Italian opposition, Girona will be eager to restore some pride and avoid joining an unwanted list of Spanish teams to lose six times in a single Champions League season.
Team News
AC Milan face defensive challenges with both Fikayo Tomori (suspended) and Malick Thiaw (injured) unavailable. This could see a reshuffled backline in front of goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The potential returns of Alvaro Morata and Christian Pulisic from injury could boost Milan’s attacking options, complementing the in-form Rafael Leao and Tijjani Reijnders.
Girona welcome back Yaser Asprilla and Portu to the squad, providing additional options in midfield and attack. Abel Ruiz is expected to lead the line, while Arnaut Danjuma could feature despite a recent goal drought in the competition.
Expected Starting XIs
AC Milan: Maignan; Emerson, Gabbia, Pavlovic, Hernandez; Bennacer, Fofana; Pulisic, Reijnders, Leao; Morata
Girona: Gazzaniga; Martinez, D. Lopez, Krejci, Blind; Solis, Martin; Tsygankov, Van de Beek, Gil; Ruiz
Match Prediction
Given AC Milan’s recent European form and home advantage, they enter this match as favourites. However, Girona’s desperation for points could make them dangerous opponents. The San Siro crowd should witness an entertaining encounter, with AC Milan likely to edge out a 2-1 victory, further solidifying their position in the group and potentially ending Girona’s slim hopes of progression.
Prediction: AC Milan 2-1 Girona
The post Champions League | AC Milan v Girona: Match Preview appeared first on FootItalia.com.
What's Your Reaction?
