The Daily Star Ireland
The Allianz Stadium hosts a crucial Serie A encounter this weekend as Juventus welcome AC Milan in a match with major implications for the title race and European qualification. Juventus sit fourth and are pushing to close the gap, while Milan remain top of the table under Sergio Conceição.
Recent form shows a mixed picture: Juve ground out a 1-1 draw with Cagliari before edging Como in midweek, while Milan secured back-to-back wins against Como and Verona, though not always convincingly. Historically, Juventus hold the edge in this fixture with 24 wins from the last 48 meetings.
Match Preview
Juventus have been disciplined under Thiago Motta, focusing on compact defending and tactical organization. While their performances have lacked flair, their resilience has kept them competitive near the top. Motta will rely on home advantage and his side’s pressing game to test Milan’s defense, which will be reshuffled due to suspensions and injuries.
Milan arrive with confidence after Rafael Leão and Theo Hernandez inspired recent victories, but their squad depth is being tested. Pulisic is sidelined, Malick Thiaw is out with a muscle injury, and Alvaro Morata is suspended. Conceição is expected to turn to Matteo Gabbia at the back, while Bennacer and Fofana will provide balance in midfield.
Team Form & Recent Results
- Juventus (last 5, all comps): D-W-L-W-D – grinding out results but lacking consistency.
- AC Milan (last 5, all comps): W-W-L-W-W – showing resilience despite missing key players.
Juventus’ home record remains solid, while Milan have been one of the strongest away sides in Serie A this season.
Head-to-Head Record
Juventus hold a slight edge historically, but Milan have been competitive in recent duels. The reverse fixture earlier this season was a tight affair, with both sides struggling to impose dominance.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Juventus: Vlahovic and Chiesa will spearhead the attack, supported by Rabiot from midfield. Motta has no major injury absences, allowing him to keep his structure intact.
AC Milan: Pulisic, Thiaw, and Morata are unavailable. Gabbia is expected to start in defense, with Bennacer and Fofana holding midfield and Reijnders pushing higher up.
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Juventus will look to press high and exploit Milan’s makeshift backline. Chiesa’s pace against Theo Hernandez could be a key matchup, while Vlahovic’s finishing offers Juve a cutting edge. Milan will aim to grow into the game after halftime, using Leão’s explosiveness on the counter and Maignan’s shot-stopping to stay in contention. Expect a tactical battle of structure versus dynamism.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Juventus to Win – Favored by home advantage and Milan’s absentees.
- Under 2.5 Goals – Likely given both sides’ cautious approach in big games.
- Both Teams to Score: No – Juve’s defensive solidity at home suggests a shutout is possible.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
The match will be played at the Allianz Stadium in Turin. Fans should check regional broadcasters and official Serie A streaming platforms for live coverage. Kickoff times vary by country.
Final Prediction
Juventus’ home advantage and Milan’s squad issues make the Bianconeri slight favorites in what should be a tense, tactical encounter. Expect Milan to threaten through Leão, but Juve’s defensive structure and finishing edge could secure a valuable victory.
