The Serie A title race is getting heated up, with Inter Milan fighting tooth and neck to make sure Juventus’ dominance finally ends this time, even though the betting tips on football have Juventus as favourites. Of course, while Maurizio Sarri’s side pulled a famous win over the Nerazzurri recently, things are still tight at the top of the Serie A league table.
With only one point clear, Juventus must make a statement at their rivals AC Milan’s expense. The Bianconeri haven’t exactly played peak “Sarriball” yet, grinding their way to victories.
But with Milan struggling even under new manager Stefano Pioli, the defending champions have the perfect opportunity to stamp their authority in Serie A.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s struggling to consistently score, but his lethality in the final third means he’ll be hungry to churn out another memorable showcase against the Rossoneri.
Paulo Dybala looks an inspired man after almost leaving in the summer, purring with flair. Aaron Ramsey’s slowly coming his own as their attacker enforcer, while Miralem Pjanic, Alex Sandro and Sami Khedira have improved under Sarri’s style.
Of course, Milan aren’t a walk in the park. They might be struggling for wins, but have enough quality to frustrate the Bianconeri.
With Hakan Calhanoglu in inspired form, Suso scoring again and Alfredo Donnarumma capable of masterclasses in such scenarios, the Rossoneri will fight tooth and nail to even get a point from Turin.
Juventus must find their A-game, start creating and finishing off their chances with panache to fulfil the requirements which were hoped for when Sarri came on board.
Juventus Predicted XI
Szczesny, De Sciglio, De Ligt, Bonucci, Sandro, Pjanic, Khedira, Matuidi, Ramsey, Ronaldo, Dybala.
AC Milan Predicted XI
Donnarumma, Calabria, Duarte, Romagnoli, Hernandez, Krunic, Paqueta, Bennacer, Suso, Leao, Calhanoglu.
Key Clashes
Cristiano Ronaldo vs Alessio Romagnoli
By his standards, Cristiano Ronaldo has had a slow start to the season. Five goals in nine Serie A games is by no means bad, but it’s average by his standards. The Portuguese’ age is probably showing, but a slow start won’t render his confidence.
Ronaldo is still a fiery figure in the final third, with his movement and unpredictability guaranteed to test Milan. Alessio Romagnoli’s been their most consistent defender for long, knowing when to make strong challenges and bail them out of trouble.
But he has a mammoth task ahead keeping a hungry Ronaldo quiet, with the Portuguese ready to silence his doubters with another masterclass.
Suso vs Alex Sandro
Even after a short injury, Suso is ready to return against Juventus. He’s Milan’s most creative aspect, having the capability of putting in amazing crosses and being a thorn in the final third.
Alex Sandro might be brilliant going forward, but must prove his defensive ability against the tricky Spaniard.
Suso will try his best to swerve his way forward and expose the Bianconeri’s defensive troubles, but Sandro must stick close to him and keep him quiet. If he can’t, the Spaniard can turn the tables on them with his sizzling ability going forward.
