AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund are poised for a high-stakes Champions League clash at San Siro, vying for crucial points to navigate through the competitive Group F.
Match Preview
In a closely contested Group F, Dortmund leads with seven points after consecutive wins over Newcastle United, while Milan sits just two points behind, eyeing a knockout stage spot after their victory against Paris Saint-Germain.
The encounter at San Siro carries immense significance for both clubs as they aim to secure their positions in the Champions League’s last 16, with their destinies hanging in the balance.
Milan, buoyed by a recent win over Fiorentina in Serie A, is keen to continue their Champions League momentum after a thrilling comeback against PSG.
However, concerns persist over their attacking efficiency, having scored only twice in four Champions League matches.
Dortmund, despite a solid run in Europe, faces inconsistency domestically. Their recent Bundesliga victory over Borussia Monchengladbach showcased resilience, with Niclas Fullkrug continuing his scoring streak.
However, they’re aware of Milan’s strong home record against German opponents in UEFA competitions.
Both clubs previously met in a goalless draw in Germany, where Dortmund struggled initially in the group stage.
With Dortmund’s improved form and Milan’s home advantage, the match is poised for a tightly contested affair.
AC Milan’s Champions League form: DDLW
AC Milan’s form (all competitions): LDLWDW
Borussia Dortmund’s Champions League form: LDWW
Borussia Dortmund’s form (all competitions): DWLWLW
Team News
Milan welcomes Olivier Giroud back from suspension but continues without Noah Okafor and Rafael Leao due to injuries.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s return strengthens their midfield, while Yunus Musah serves a suspension.
Dortmund faces the absence of Felix Nmecha due to injury, but Emre Can and Gregor Kobel are fit. Niclas Fullkrug’s impressive scoring form adds firepower upfront alongside Donyell Malen.
Predicted Starting Lineups:
AC Milan:(4-2-3-1)
Maignan;
Calabria, Tomori, Thiaw, Hernandez;
Musah, Reijnders;
Chukwueze, Loftus-Cheek, Pulisic;
Giroud
Borussia Dortmund:(4-2-3-1)
Kobel;
Sule, Hummels, Schlotterbeck, Ryerson;
Can, Sabitzer;
Reus, Brandt, Malen;
Fullkrug
Prediction
Foreseeing another closely contested battle, a 1-1 draw is anticipated between AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund.
Both teams possess equal strengths, setting the stage for a compelling encounter with potential group implications.
- Our prediction: AC Milan 1-1 Borussia Dortmund