Rossonerri is still very much in a title race, although their chance is getting thinner. They shall refocus to seal the win in all remaining games while hoping for Inter Milan’s defeat. This weekend Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Co will be taking on Sampdoria, which are still stuck in the midtable. Il Samp is looking for another win to bump up their position in the standings.
Both teams’ latest news
Milan managed to snatch a 3-2 win over Fiorentina in a thriller on the road before the international break. Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored an opener but the home side could equalise through Erick Pulgar’s free kick. They even one goal behind as Franck Ribery found the back of the net at the second half. Not long after, Brahim Diaz found the equaliser after taking advantage. Their winning goal came on 73rd minute by Hakan Calhanoglu’s long range shot.
Sampdoria could also clinch a narrow win over Torino. The only goal of the game was scored by the former Lazio man, Antonio Candreva.
Possible tactic
Stefano Pioli is still likely to opt for 4-2-3-1. Ibrahimovic will be leading the attack supported by Hakan Calhanoglu, Rade Krunic and Sam Castillejo. Several names will be ruled out for this fixture. They are Rafael Leao, Davide Calabria, Daniel Maldini, Alessio Romagnoli and Ante Rebic plus Mario Madzukic.
Meanwhile, Claudio Ranieri might be deploying 4-4-2 formation. Fabio Quagliarella and Manolo Gabbiadini will be featuring on the front. Keita Balde can be the back up of those two veterans forward. In the midfield, Morten Thorsby, Elbin Ekdal, Antonio Candreva and Adrien Silva will be operating on the second line to provide support for the frontmen.
Players to watch
Hakan Calhanoglu will still be the anchorman. The Turkey international has bagged just two goals and provided 8 assists. He will be supporting Ibrahimovic who is still the top scorer of the club this season with 15 goals.
Il Samp also count on the veteran upfront as their main scorer, the former Italian international Fabio Guagliarella. The 38-year old forward has netted nine goals plus made one assist this season. Another key man to watch is the Norwegian Morten Thorsby contributing two goals and Antonio Candreva with five goals and six assists.
AC Milan vs Sampdoria Prediction
Milan might not be hopeful win Serie A considering the six point margin from Inter. Pioli’s men will be more focused on finishing on the second for returning to Champions League next season, which is still doable. Claudio Ranieri’s side’s inconsistency would be Milan advantage to secure a home win.
Betting Odds
AC Milan is the clear favourite here, according to punters. They are priced to win at 3/5 whereas Il Samp is backed to win at 16/5. The odds for a draw result are at the value of 11/2.
