AC Milan will face Bologna in a Serie A match at San Siro. Milan aims to improve from a disappointing previous season, while Bologna seeks to build on recent successes. The prediction is an AC Milan victory, 2-1, in a closely contested game.
The iconic San Siro will be the battleground this weekend as AC Milan faces off against Bologna in a highly anticipated Serie A clash. With both teams eager to make their mark early in the 2025-26 season, this encounter promises tactical intrigue and fierce competition. Let's delve into the dynamics of both squads, analyze their recent performances, and offer a prediction for this captivating match.
AC Milan, a club steeped in history and prestige, is determined to rebound from a disappointing previous campaign. After finishing a lowly eighth in the Serie A table last season, the Rossoneri are hungry to reclaim their status as title contenders. Their journey began with a mixed bag of results: a convincing 2-0 victory over Bari in the Coppa Italia, followed by a shocking 2-1 defeat to Cremonese at home, and then a morale-boosting 2-0 win against Lecce on the road. This inconsistency highlights the need for greater stability and cohesion within the squad.
Under the guidance of Massimiliano Allegri, AC Milan is expected to deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation. The reliable Mike Maignan will guard the goal, shielded by a defensive trio of Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, and Strahinja Pavlovic. The midfield will be marshaled by the experienced Luka Modric, alongside Yunus Musah, Youssouf Fofana, and Pervis Estupinan. The creative burden will fall on the shoulders of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Alexis Saelemaekers, while Santiago Gimenez will spearhead the attack, aiming to convert chances into goals.
Bologna, meanwhile, has emerged as a formidable force in recent years. Their impressive fifth-place finish in the 2023-24 season demonstrated their potential, and they are keen to build on that success. Last season, they secured a respectable ninth-place finish, earning them a spot in the UEFA Europa League. Under the stewardship of Vincenzo Italiano, Bologna has showcased tactical flexibility and a resilient team spirit.
Their 2025-26 season began with a narrow 1-0 defeat to AS Roma, followed by a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Como. Bologna is likely to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation against AC Milan. Lukasz Skorupski will be the last line of defense, protected by Nadir Zortea, Martin Vitík, Torbjorn Heggem, and Charalampos Lykogiannis. The midfield pivot will consist of Remo Freuler and Nikola Moro, providing stability and control. Riccardo Orsolini, Giovanni Fabbian, and Nicolo Cambiaghi will form the attacking trident, supporting Santiago Castro, who will lead the line.
Several key factors could influence the outcome of this match. AC Milan's attacking prowess, with three goals in their first two Serie A games, cannot be underestimated. However, their defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded two goals, need to be addressed. Bologna's defensive solidity, having conceded just one goal in their opening two matches, will pose a stern test for the Milan attack. However, their own attacking output has been limited to just one goal.
Historically, AC Milan boasts a superior record against Bologna. However, Bologna's recent resurgence suggests that they are capable of causing an upset. The tactical battle between Allegri and Italiano will be fascinating to watch, as both managers seek to exploit their opponent's weaknesses. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Modric and Freuler vying for dominance.
Considering all the factors, AC Milan's home advantage, coupled with their superior squad depth, gives them a slight edge. However, Bologna's defensive resilience and tactical discipline will make them a tough nut to crack. Expect a closely contested encounter with moments of brilliance from both sides.
Prediction: AC Milan to win 2-1