A win is essential for Milan against Olympiakos tonight, and much will come down to their defence.
Words: Richard Gyasi
Last Sunday’s 4-1 victory against Sassuolo could signal a turnaround in the fortunes of the Rossoneri this season. Milan have been punished for their futility in front of goal beginning of their campaign, but have shown countless evidence of creating opportunities irrespective of the opposition. Their defence is a different story, though. They are perched in 9th place after six league games.
A win is essential for Milan against Olympiakos tonight, and much will come down to their defence.
Words: Richard Gyasi
Last Sunday’s 4-1 victory against Sassuolo could signal a turnaround in the fortunes of the Rossoneri this season. Milan have been punished for their futility in front of goal beginning of their campaign, but have shown countless evidence of creating opportunities irrespective of the opposition. Their defence is a different story, though. They are perched in 9th place after six league games.
This Thursday, Milan resume continental duties with Olympiacos in the picture. Gattuso’s men will welcome the Greek side at the San Siro in their second Group F fixture. The Diavolo managed a 1-0 win away to Luxembourg’s Dudelange in their opening Europa League game, and sit at the top of the Group F.
This is set to be another test of Milan’s resolve as they’re yet to record two victories on the bounce this season. Rossoneri fans can look forward an exciting encounter at the San Siro, haven scored four goals in their last two league games at home.
Olympiacos meanwhile, are in a much healthier position compared to their opponent on Thursday, they currently sit in fifth place on the league rung after four wins and a lost from five league matches.
The former Greek Champions drew in their first Europa League game at home against Real Betis and are hoping to put a fly in Milan’s ointment when they visit the Estadio Giuseppe Meazza.
Having had the opportunity to coach Greek side OFI Crete for six months in the 2014/15 season, Gennaro Gattuso has a reasonable idea about the mentality of clubs in the Superleague. Fans will expect that the players will also draw experience from playing AEK Athens in the competition last season.
The Rossoneri need to be sharper in attack and avoid errors at the back.
It’s not certain that Gonzalo Higuain will lead the attack after suffering from a leg injury. Reports suggest the 31year-old will soon start training as he’s been dealing with a muscular problem and hasn’t been involved since the Cagliari game. However Samu Castillejo and Patrick Cutrone are equally capable of leading the attack.
As Donnaruma put it after Sunday’s game ”the win over sassuolo gives us a morale boost after a tough period, it could be our turning point” Milan must win against Olympiacos to build momentum as anything other than a win may suppress the impetus gained from the win against Sassuolo.