Udinese and AC Milan face off in a Serie A clash at the Bluenergy Stadium. Udinese, currently third, aims to continue their strong start, while AC Milan seeks to climb the table. The match is expected to be a tactical battle, potentially ending in a draw.
The Serie A weekend features a compelling clash between Udinese and AC Milan, promising a tactical showdown at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine. Scheduled for Saturday at 7:45 PM UK time, this match pits Kosta Runjaic's Udinese against Massimiliano Allegri's AC Milan in what is expected to be a closely contested encounter.
Udinese: Building on Solid Foundation
Udinese, a mainstay in Italy's top flight, consistently aims for mid-table stability and occasionally challenges for European qualification. Last season, they secured a respectable 12th position, a performance they are keen to replicate or surpass. The club has been proactive in the transfer market, adding Arthur Atta, Lennon Miller, Adam Buksa, and Nicolo Bertola to their ranks, bolstering their squad depth and tactical options.
Currently, Udinese occupies the third spot in the Serie A standings, having accumulated seven points from their first three matches. This strong start places them just two points behind leaders Napoli and Juventus, signaling their ambition and potential for the season. Their recent form includes a notable 1-0 victory over Pisa and a surprising 2-1 triumph against Inter Milan at San Siro, demonstrating their ability to compete against top-tier opposition.
Udinese Team News and Expected Lineup
Udinese is anticipated to adopt a 3-5-2 formation for the match against AC Milan. Razvan Sava is expected to start in goal, with a defensive trio of Nicolo Bertola, Thomas Kristensen, and Oumar Solet providing protection. The midfield is likely to consist of Kingsley Ehizibue, Jakub Piotrowski, Jesper Karlstrom, Arthur Atta, and Hassane Kamara, tasked with controlling the game's tempo and providing support to the attack. Upfront, Iker Bravo and Keinan Davis are the likely candidates to lead the line.
AC Milan: Aiming to Reclaim Top Spot
AC Milan, a global football powerhouse, has consistently vied for the Serie A title and has been a prominent participant in the UEFA Champions League. After a somewhat underwhelming 2024-25 season, where they finished eighth with 63 points, the Rossoneri are determined to return to their former glory. They are currently fifth in the Serie A table with six points from three games, three points behind the leading pack of Napoli and Juventus.
Milan's recent form includes a 1-0 victory over Bologna and a 2-0 win against Lecce, although a 2-1 defeat to Cremonese serves as a reminder of the league's competitive nature and the need for consistent performance.
AC Milan Team News and Expected Lineup
AC Milan is projected to counter with a 3-4-2-1 formation. Mike Maignan is expected to be in goal, shielded by a back three of Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, and Strahinja Pavlovic. The midfield is likely to feature Alexis Saelemaekers, Youssouf Fofana, Luka Modric, and Pervis Estupinan, providing a blend of creativity and defensive stability. Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Adrien Rabiot are expected to operate in attacking midfield roles, supporting Santiago Gimenez as the lone striker.
Key Factors and Tactical Considerations
Several factors could influence the outcome of this match:
- Udinese has scored 4 goals and conceded 2 in their first three Serie A games.
- AC Milan has also scored 4 goals and conceded 2 in their first three Serie A matches.
- Udinese maintained 48.6% possession in their recent match against Pisa.
Both teams have demonstrated attacking capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities, suggesting a potentially open and engaging contest.
Conclusion: A Tactical Stalemate?
While Udinese is currently in good form, AC Milan possesses the quality and experience to pose a significant challenge. This match is anticipated to be a closely fought encounter, potentially ending in a draw as both teams seek to gain valuable points in their quest for Serie A success.
Prediction: Match to end in a 1-1 draw
Best Odds: 11/2
Bookmaker: Zetbet