Newcastle United faces AC Milan in their Champions League return after 20 years. Here’s the preview, predictions, team news, and expected lineups for this Group F clash.
Match Preview
Newcastle United is set to dine at Europe’s top table for the first time in two decades, making their 2023-24 Champions League debut against seven-time winners AC Milan at San Siro on Tuesday.
Despite a recent victory against Brentford, they face a formidable opponent in AC Milan.
The Rossoneri had a tough outing against Inter Milan, suffering a humiliating defeat in a one-sided Derby della Madonnina.
However, Milan is known for their prowess in European competitions and will look to assert that against Newcastle United.
Recent Form
AC Milan has displayed consistent form in all competitions, with three wins preceding their loss against Inter Milan.
On the other hand, Newcastle United experienced a challenging run in the Premier League, looking to regain their footing.
Team News
AC Milan faces minor setbacks in their lineup due to injuries, notably missing centre-back Pierre Kalulu and Ismael Bennacer. Fikayo Tomori is set to return, bolstering Milan’s defensive strength.
Newcastle United, however, will be without Joelinton due to injury.
Here are the expected lineups for the match:
AC Milan possible starting lineup:
Maignan;
Calabria, Tomori, Kjaer, Hernandez;
Reijnders, Krunic, Loftus-Cheek;
Chukwueze, Giroud, Leao
Newcastle United possible starting lineup:
Pope;
Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn;
Longstaff, Tonali, Guimaraes;
Gordon, Isak, Barnes
Prediction
In what promises to be a thrilling encounter, AC Milan is favored to secure a 2-1 victory against Newcastle United. Their experience and European pedigree might give them the edge.