Prediction: Napoli vs AC Milan

Prediction: Napoli win

Best Odds: 8/11

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 Napoli take on AC Milan in the second leg of their quarter-final.

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

Simeone is injured here with Zambo Anguissa currently serving a suspension.

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 is the only player confirmed to be out through injury with the visitors otherwise having a clean bill of health.

Factors to Consider

• Last week, Milan beat Napoli 1-0 in the first leg at the San Siro.
• Napoli have won three, drawn one and lost two of their last six games.
• Milan have won two, drawn three and lost one of their last six games.
• Napoli have scored nine goals and conceded six in their last six games.
• Milan have scored eight goals and conceded five in their last six games.

Conclusion

Milan are fairly solid defensively but in terms of overall quality, we’d argue Napoli just about edge them out. Of course, that isn’t the only thing that decides games of this magnitude, and AC have had the league leaders’ number on plenty of occasions recently. With that being said, this feels like a once in a lifetime opportunity for the hosts and we expect them to win by two or three clear goals to book their place in the semis.

Prediction: Napoli win

Best Odds: 8/11

Bookmaker: 888sport