Prediction: AC Milan vs Napoli

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 11/5

Bookmaker: 888sport

The UEFA Champions League is back in our lives and we’re really getting down to the nitty gritty now. There are just eight clubs remaining on the road to Istanbul and based on the draw, we’d argue that all of them will fancy their chances of reaching the last dance. Today, we’ll be taking a look at a mouth-watering all-Italian clash as AC Milan take on Napoli in the first leg of their quarter-final.

AC Milan

After returning to the top of the mountain last season by wining Serie A, AC Milan have done a solid job of solidifying their status as one of the best clubs in Italian football. Of course, the same can be said for many of their rivals, which is why the Champions League is going to be so important for them here. If they can see off the challenge of the current league leaders, it’ll be a huge statement of their intent.

Team News

Ibrahimovic and Kalulu have both been ruled out of this one through injury.

Napoli

It’s the dream season that Napoli fans have been waiting for. In addition to being the champions-elect thanks to their insane lead at the top of the table, they are also seen as one of the favourites to capture the European Cup. They have the kind of squad that is more than capable of pulling off the double, but you have to wonder whether their lack of experience at this level threatens to become a factor.

Team News

Osimhen is set to be a huge miss for Napoli as his abductor injury continues to keep him out.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting on April 2nd, Milan beat Napoli 4-0.
• Milan have won one, drawn three and lost two of their last six games.
• Napoli have won four and lost two of their last six games.
• Milan have scored seven goals and conceded six in their last six games.
• Napoli have scored 11 goals and conceded six in their last six games.

Conclusion

The tension of a game like this is clear for all to see and we think it’s going to be on full display when these two clubs collide this week. It’s going to be a game of few chances with the defensive end of the stick coming out on top for long spells, largely because Napoli will be wary of what Milan did to them just a few weeks ago. Ultimately, we’ll end up in a stalemate, with a 0-0 draw to take through to the second leg.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 11/5

Bookmaker: 888sport