AC Milan finally managed to get their first win under Stefano Pioli, beating SPAL by the odd goal at San Siro. However, the performance was far from convincing and the manager still has a lot to work on, though there is little time to do so as the Rossoneri will face Lazio on Sunday evening.
After starting on the bench, Suso came to the rescue last time out as he replaced Castillejo in the second half. The Spaniard made the most of a free-kick as he struck it beautifully, putting his side in front. Luckily for Pioli, it was enough to secure his first win in charge of the San Siro side.
TEAM NEWS
With that in mind, as opposed to last time out, the manager isn’t expected to make as many significant changes to the line-up. Instead, he’s expected to build on the second-half performance, allowing Calabria to play on the right flank once again after starting on the bench.
Furthermore, as Musacchio has picked up an injury, Duarte will keep his spot in the line-up, though playing in his natural position next to Romagnoli. In other words, the defence will be the same as the last 45 minutes against SPAL. Given that the Rossoneri don’t have endless resources in that department, it only makes sense.
In the midfield, though, we could see two changes. After finally getting the chance from start last time out, Bennacer could be sent to the bench, failing to perform on a consistent level against SPAL. The Algerian did some good things, without a doubt, but he also misplaced a lot of passes. Moreover, Krunic could replace Kessie, who was disappointing in the narrow win.
As you would expect, Suso will be back in the starting eleven tomorrow. Perhaps, a start on the bench was all he needed to regain motivation, at least that’s what the Rossoneri faithful are hoping for. Other than that change, the front three will remain intact.
Likely AC Milan XI (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Calabria, Duarte, Romagnoli, Hernandez; Paqueta, Biglia, Krunic; Suso, Piatek, Calhanoglu.
STATS
In this fixture, Milan have been very dominant as of late, especially at the San Siro. Then again, the Rossoneri haven’t been this bad for a long time, so all of the stats will have to be taken with a pinch of salt. However, it’s certainly a good indication for Pioli’s men. Down below are the top five stats and facts about the fixture.
- Lazio have only won two of their last 13 Serie A meetings against AC Milan: six wins for the Rossoneri and five draws.
- Lazio’s last Serie A away win against AC Milan was back in 1989 (1-0 thanks to Maldini’s own-goal): since then the Rossoneri have collected 18 wins and 11 draws.
- AC Milan have kept a clean sheet after having conceded at least two goals in five of the previous six league games.
- Ciro Immobile has scored two Serie A hat-tricks with Lazio – one was against Milan in September 2017.
- AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessié has scored three goals against Lazio: against no side has he scored more goals in the top-flight.
PREDICTION
After the win against SPAL, the Rossoneri players will most likely have a bit more confidence. On the other hand, a lot is still missing tactically and Pioli hasn’t had much time to work with the squad since Thursday’s game. Therefore, it remains to be seen how much a bit of confidence can help boost their performance overall, though it’s safe to say it won’t be an easy clash.
AC Milan 1-1 Lazio
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