AC Milan are preparing for what could be a tough game this evening against Sampdoria, who have held both Juventus and Lazio to draws this season. There are a few key battles to consider.
The Rossoneri are looking to build on their 3-2 derby win against Inter, as well as the 1-1 draw against Salzburg, with another strong performance. There will be some rotation to the XI, although Divock Origi will miss out due to a late injury.
Starting at the back, from a Milan perspective, it’s likely that the veteran Ciccio Caputo will target Pierre Kalulu, who didn’t have the best of games last time out. The Sampdoria striker is lethal and doesn’t need a lot to score.
Further up the pitch, Tommaso Pobega will be given a chance and he will have to use all of his physique to eliminate his opposite man, Tomas Rincon. The midfield battle is always important and especially in this game.
Speaking of the midfield, Charles De Ketelaere will battle it out against the defender but also Ronaldo Vieira, as Samp play with a deep-sitting midfielder. The Belgian will have to use his creativity and skill to break through.
It’s impossible to analyse the individual battles and not mentioned Rafael Leao. He will be up against the Polish international Bartosz Bereszynski. The latter’s defending style could frustrate the Portuguese international, but perhaps that won’t matter.
Finally, since Olivier Giroud will start after all, it will be interesting to see him battling with Omar Colley as both are very big. They are also known for their strength aerially and whoever wins that battle will have a big advantage. Update: Colley has sustained an injury and will not be available.