AC Milan vs Sassuolo predictions for Serie A clash at San Siro. AC Milan concludes their 2023 schedule by hosting Sassuolo on Saturday evening. They seek to bounce back from a recent setback in the Serie A title race. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Serie A | Gameweek 18 – Dec 30, 2023 at 5pm UK at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza
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AC Milan vs Sassuolo Predictions
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Clash of Contrasts: AC Milan’s Resilience vs Sassuolo’s Audacity at San Siro
Key Stats
– Sassuolo’s Scoring Streak: Sassuolo have troubled Milan in their backyard, winning each of their last three visits.
– Giroud’s Impressive Record: Olivier Giroud averages a goal every 78 minutes against Sassuolo in Serie A.
AC Milan’s upcoming Serie A encounter against Sassuolo at San Siro presents a fascinating blend of strategic depth and raw ambition. The Rossoneri, eager to bounce back from recent setbacks, face a Sassuolo side that has found a peculiar comfort in Milan’s fortress. This match promises an intriguing battle of styles, with both sides seeking to end 2023 on a high note.
Milan’s Defensive Dilemma and Offensive Might: Stefano Pioli’s Milan, despite their remarkable Scudetto triumph two years ago, are under scrutiny due to their defensive frailties. Conceding 64 goals in 2023, a club-record high for a calendar year, underscores a pressing concern for Pioli. The Rossoneri’s robust home form, marked by nine clean sheets, is a ray of hope; however, their injury woes, including Fikayo Tomori’s recent addition to the list, pose significant challenges.
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In attack, Olivier Giroud’s prowess will be pivotal. Averaging a goal every 78 minutes against Sassuolo, Giroud is Milan’s beacon of hope. Alongside him, Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic’s dynamism could exploit Sassuolo’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Sassuolo’s Grit and Milan’s Nemesis: Sassuolo, sitting precariously above the relegation zone, arrive at San Siro with a record of causing upsets. Their recent triumphs against Milan and a shock win over Inter highlight their potential to disrupt the status quo. The return of Domenico Berardi, their talisman with 11 goals against Milan, adds an edge to their attack. Andrea Pinamonti and Armand Lauriente complement Berardi, forming a trident capable of piercing Milan’s shaky defence.
Best Bets Rationale:
- Milan’s Victory: Milan’s need to rebound in the title race and their formidable home record make them the favourites. Sassuolo’s shaky away form adds to Milan’s chances of clinching the win.
- Giroud’s Goalscoring: Giroud’s knack for scoring against Sassuolo, combined with Milan’s attacking style, positions him as a likely scorer, offering a solid betting opportunity.
Analysis of Key Battles and Game Dynamics:
- The midfield tussle, particularly Milan’s ability to control the game’s tempo, will be critical. Sassuolo’s counter-attacking prowess, led by Berardi, will test Milan’s defensive resolve.
- The flanks will be key battle zones, with Leão and Pulisic’s speed against Sassuolo’s full-backs likely to be decisive.
Opinionated Team Strategies and Managerial Insights:
- Pioli’s Milan must address their defensive concerns, particularly in set-piece situations. Their attacking football is commendable, but a balanced approach is necessary for long-term success.
- Sassuolo’s Dionisi needs to instill a more disciplined defensive structure. Their attacking flair is notable, but a more pragmatic approach in defence could yield better results.
- Criticism towards Pioli focuses on his inability to solidify Milan’s defence post-Scudetto victory. His tactical acumen is not in question, but adaptability in adverse situations remains a concern.
Expected Lineups and Tactical Play:
- AC Milan: Maignan; Calabria, Kjaer, Simic, Hernandez; Loftus-Cheek, Bennacer, Reijnders; Pulisic, Giroud, Leao. Milan’s formation focuses on width in attack, utilising Leao and Pulisic’s pace, with Giroud as the focal point upfront.
- Sassuolo: Consigli; Toljan, Erlic, Ferrari, Pedersen; Henrique, Thorstvedt; Berardi, Bajrami, Lauriente; Pinamonti. Sassuolo will rely on Berardi’s creativity and Pinamonti’s finishing, with a compact midfield aiming to disrupt Milan’s rhythm.
Predictions:
- Match Outcome – AC Milan Win: Despite their defensive struggles, Milan’s stronger home form and Sassuolo’s inconsistent season tilt the scales in favour of the Rossoneri. Expect Milan to secure a hard-fought victory.
- Correct Score – Milan 3-2 Sassuolo: Given both teams’ offensive strengths and defensive frailties, a high-scoring affair is likely. Milan’s attacking flair might just edge past Sassuolo’s spirited challenge.
- Goalscorer Prediction – Olivier Giroud to Score: Giroud’s impressive record against Sassuolo, coupled with his current form, makes him a prime candidate to find the back of the net.
- Corner Prediction – Milan to Earn More Corners: Milan’s attacking approach, particularly through the flanks, is likely to result in a higher number of corners for the hosts.
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