Verdict: Over 2,5 goals – yes
Best Odds: 57/50
Bookmaker: 888sport
There is little doubt that the rivalry between AC Milan and Inter Milan is one of the biggest in Europe. Known as the ‘Derby della Madonnina’, both Milan-based outfits have a clear goal in mind this season: to play in the UEFA Champions League next season. Considering this game has huge European implications, we might be on the verge of witnessing an instant classic in San Siro. The game will kick-off at 17:30 BST this Wednesday.
AC Milan
AC Milan currently sit in sixth place in the Serie A standings ahead of this round with 50 points. However, there is a chance that changes come kick-off time since Atalanta (47 points) play against Sampdoria on Tuesday, which could potentially see Milan in seventh place when the ball starts rolling. Despite that, Milan have been on a good run of form in recent weeks. They were going through an impressive five-game winning streak until they lost 1-3 against Juventus this past weekend, though. But that loss shouldn’t affect the team’s plans very much. Their impressive form since the arrival of Gennaro Gattuso should have them confident of potentially locking down a UEFA Europa League berth once the season ends. Reaching the UEFA Champions League might be a bit more complicated, but there are no double lectures here. If Milan want to keep their UCL chances alive, then winning this game is mandatory for them.
Team News
Milan are a bit shorthanded ahead of this game. Lucas Biglia has been ruled out due to a suspension, and Andrea Conti is out due to a knee injury.
They might not be the team’s lone absentees, though. Ignazio Abate is dealing with a calf problem, and will be a game-time decision ahead of this one.
Inter Milan
On the other hand, Inter Milan looked like a Serie A title contender early in the season, but they could not hold on to their form and their title chances quickly faded away. In fact, they even held Juventus to a scoreless draw back in December 9, but afterwards they went through a seven-game winless run (D5, L2) that put a dent on their Champions League’s qualification chances. Since then, the team has come back to life and is once again playing at a top level with four wins in their past six (W4, D1, L1). But is that going to be enough to secure a berth in the UCL next season? They will have to battle against Lazio and AS Roma – as well as Milan – to play in the tournament next season. Recent results are on their side, though. Luciano Spalletti’s men defeated Verona 3-0 the last time out, and have won their past two matches. Can they make it three against their bitter rivals?
Team News
Inter Milan are at full strength ahead of this game.
The lone potential absentee is Andrea Ranocchia, who is doubtful due to a thigh injury.
Key Factors to Consider
- The last four meetings between both sides in the Serie A have seen over 2,5 goals scored.
- Inter Milan are riding a four-game undefeated streak against AC Milan, registering three wins and one draw.
- Inter Milan have a slight edge in the all-time head-to-head record. They have 78 wins, while Milan have 76 and there have been 66 draws as well.
- As if that was not enough, Inter also have the edge in the goalscoring department. They have netted 299 to Milan’s 297. Will we see an Inter player netting the club’s 300th goal against Milan this Wednesday?
- The last 10 meetings also show a slight edge for the neroazzurri side. They have three wins, Milan have two, and there have been five draws as well.
Conclusion
History indicates that these two sides tend to play high-scoring games, and it shouldn’t be any different here. With both sides vying for European qualification, we might see an open game since losing is not an option for any of these two.
Expect over 2,5 goals.
Verdict: Over 2,5 goals – yes
Best Odds: 57/50
Bookmaker: 888sport
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