The upcoming Serie A match between AC Milan and Pisa is highly anticipated, with AC Milan striving for a crucial victory. The match is set for Friday evening, as AC Milan, currently positioned second in the league, faces last-place Pisa, who are fighting to avoid relegation.
Match Preview
AC Milan aims to close the gap with league leaders Inter Milan to five points with a win. They are eight points behind their city rivals and hold one game in hand. The Rossoneri are enjoying a remarkable unbeaten streak of 22 matches in Serie A, making it the longest ongoing run in the top five European leagues.
Since an unexpected defeat on opening day to Cremonese, Milan has only lost twice, both in knockout competitions. A victory against Pisa would mark their second-best points tally at this stage of the season in the 21st century, surpassing all years except for 2004.
In their last outing, AC Milan triumphed 3-0 over Bologna, a result that came as a relief following a cup final loss to the same team last season. With a controversial match against Como postponed, Milan has had ample time to prepare for this crucial fixture.
Pisa’s Struggles
Pisa finds themselves in a difficult position, currently six points from safety. They have recorded only one victory this season, leading to the dismissal of coach Alberto Gilardino. The new coach, Oscar Hiljemark, has had a challenging start, leading the team to a disappointing goalless draw against Hellas Verona in a must-win match.
Interestingly, during their last league encounter last October, Pisa managed to secure a 2-2 draw against AC Milan, showcasing their potential. However, their record against Milan remains troubling, with three draws and ten defeats historically.
Recent Form
- Pisa’s Serie A form: L D D L L D
- AC Milan’s Serie A form: D D W W D W
Team News
AC Milan enters the match with the luxury of a full week of rest. Top scorer Christian Pulisic is set for a return, and wing-back Alexis Saelemaekers may also be available pending recovery from an injury. Santiago Gimenez remains the only player ruled out due to injury.
Meanwhile, AC Milan’s attacking options include Christopher Nkunku, Niclas Fullkrug, and Rafael Leao, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek also fighting for a starting position. France’s Adrien Rabiot has been impressive this season, contributing seven goals away from home.
Pisa, however, has struggled offensively, netting only three goals at home this season. Their leading scorer is Stefano Moreo, with five goals to his name. The squad faces additional challenges with several key players, including goalkeepers Simone Scuffet and Adrian Semper, sidelined.
Predicted Lineups
| Pisa | AC Milan |
|---|---|
| Nicolas; Canestrelli, Caracciolo, Bozhinov; Toure, Loyola, Aebischer, Angori; Tramoni, Moreo; Durosinmi | Maignan; Tomori, Gabbia, Pavlovic; Athekame, Fofana, Modric, Rabiot, Bartesaghi; Loftus-Cheek; Nkunku |
In conclusion, AC Milan is expected to secure a comfortable victory against a struggling Pisa side. With their current form and squad depth, the Rossoneri can continue to apply pressure on Inter Milan in the race for the Scudetto.
