The picturesque Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia is set to host a captivating Serie A clash as Como welcomes AC Milan on Tuesday evening. This match presents a fascinating contrast between a team fighting for survival and another aiming to reclaim their place among Italy’s elite.
Como, under the guidance of former Barcelona and Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas, have shown remarkable resilience in recent weeks. The newly-promoted side has lost only once in their last six matches, a run that has lifted them to 16th in the table. Their most recent outing, a spirited 1-1 draw against title-contenders Lazio in Rome, exemplifies their growing confidence and adaptability to top-flight football.
AC Milan, on the other hand, find themselves in a period of transition. The appointment of Sergio Conceicao as head coach has brought immediate success in the form of the Supercoppa Italiana, secured with victories over Juventus and Inter Milan. However, their league form remains inconsistent, as evidenced by a disappointing 1-1 draw at home to struggling Cagliari in their last Serie A fixture. Currently sitting 8th in the table, the Rossoneri are in desperate need of a win to keep their Champions League qualification hopes alive.
This match promises an intriguing tactical duel between Fabregas’ pragmatic approach and Conceicao’s more expansive style. Como have shown themselves to be a well-organized unit, capable of frustrating more illustrious opponents. Their recent performances suggest they will not be overawed by Milan’s reputation.
Milan, still adapting to Conceicao’s methods, will need to find a balance between their attacking instincts and defensive solidity. The Rossoneri’s recent tendency to start games slowly could be exploited by a Como side growing in confidence.
The midfield battle will be crucial, with Milan’s Ismael Bennacer likely to play a pivotal role in dictating the tempo. Como’s ability to disrupt Milan’s rhythm in this area could be key to their chances of securing a positive result.
In attack, all eyes will be on Cutrone for Como. The striker’s knowledge of Milan’s defensive setup could prove invaluable. For Milan, the form of Rafael Leao on the left flank could be decisive in unlocking a stubborn Como defence.
Team News
Como face significant challenges in midfield, with the talented Nico Paz sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained against Lazio. The absence of Sergi Roberto and Maximo Perrone further depletes their options in the centre of the park. However, the return of Edoardo Goldaniga from suspension provides a boost to their defensive lineup. Patrick Cutrone, a former Milan youth product, leads the line for Como and will be eager to prove a point against his former club.
Milan continue to grapple with injury concerns, particularly in midfield and attack. Samuel Chukwueze and Ruben Loftus-Cheek remain unavailable, while long-term absentee Alessandro Florenzi is still on the road to recovery. The return of Emerson Royal from suspension offers Conceicao more options in defense. With a congested fixture list on the horizon, including crucial Champions League ties, the Milan coach may opt for some rotation in his starting eleven.
Expected Starting XIs
Como: Butez; Van der Brempt, Goldaniga, Kempf, Moreno; Mazzitelli, Engelhardt; Strefezza, Da Cunha, Fadera; Cutrone
Milan: Maignan; Emerson, Tomori, Thiaw, Hernandez; Fofana, Bennacer; Pulisic, Reijnders, Leao; Morata
Match Prediction
This match represents a critical juncture for both teams. Como, buoyed by their recent form, will see this as an opportunity to claim a major scalp and further distance themselves from the relegation zone. Milan, meanwhile, cannot afford any more slip-ups if they are to mount a serious challenge for Champions League qualification.
Prediction: Como 1-2 Milan
