AC Milan will face Bologna in a crucial Serie A match on Tuesday at Stadio Dall’Ara. This match marks the conclusion of Serie A’s 23rd matchday, with both teams holding contrasting aspirations for the season.
Match Preview: AC Milan vs. Bologna
AC Milan, last season’s Coppa Italia finalists, are eager to extend their impressive unbeaten streak. They are currently eight points behind city rivals Inter Milan in the title race but have a game in hand. With a solid defensive unit, Milan has not lost in Serie A since their opening match against Cremonese. However, their only defeats this season have been in knockout competitions.
Bologna, on the other hand, is aiming to secure their first home win of the year. Recently, they have struggled in the league, winning just one of their last ten Serie A matches. Their last loss saw them concede three goals after leading 2-0 at halftime against Genoa, creating a sense of urgency within the squad.
Recent Form
- AC Milan’s Form: W D D W W D
- Bologna’s Form: L L D W L L
Bologna lifted their first major trophy in five decades last season but have since slipped down the league standings. Currently, they are closer to the relegation zone than to a European spot. Their recent Europa League victory against Maccabi Tel Aviv has provided a brief morale boost, but the pressure to perform at home remains high.
Team News
AC Milan will miss key players, including Christian Pulisic, Alexis Saelemaekers, and Santiago Gimenez due to injuries. However, they still have several attacking options in Christopher Nkunku, Niclas Fullkrug, and Rafael Leao. Meanwhile, midfielders Ruben Loftus-Cheek could be utilized in an advanced position.
Bologna’s coach, Vincenzo Italiano, is likely to make changes after a congested schedule in January. Goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski is suspended, and Federico Ravaglia will take his place. Key defender Jhon Lucumi remains sidelined due to injury, but Bologna’s attacking options include top scorer Riccardo Orsolini, who found the net in their recent Europa League match.
Predicted Lineups
| AC Milan | Bologna |
|---|---|
| Maignan | Ravaglia |
| De Winter | Zortea |
| Gabbia | Casale |
| Pavlovic | Heggem |
| Athekame | Miranda |
| Fofana | Freuler |
| Modric | Pobega |
| Rabiot | Orsolini |
| Bartesaghi | Odgaard |
| Nkunku | Cambiaghi |
| Leao | Castro |
Match Prediction
This encounter sees AC Milan as slight favorites, given their recent form. Despite not playing at their best, their strong away record, paired with Bologna’s struggles at home, suggests a close match.
Our prediction: Bologna 1 – AC Milan 2.
