Stefano Pioli knows Dinamo Zagreb will defend and counter at home this evening, but believes Milan have chosen the right team to ‘spread the play’ and break them down.
It kicks off at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT) at the Stadion Maksimir in Zagreb.
The Rossoneri have only four points after four games, the same as Dinamo Zagreb, but it remains a very balanced group with RB Salzburg on six and Chelsea seven.
If they lose and Salzburg win, Pioli’s men cannot reach the Round of 16.
“It has to be a game worthy of Milan. It’s going to be decisive for qualification, so we prepared it well and should have the right approach,” Pioli told Sky Sport Italia.
The coach was asked if this can be the night for Charles De Ketelaere to truly introduce himself to the Rossoneri supporters.
“It must be the night of Milan, where the team plays united. Then clearly we have quality in attack with our individuals that could give us the edge this evening.”
Ante Rebic plays on the right side of the attack for the first time, helping to support De Ketelaere, Rafael Leao and Olivier Giroud, as Brahim Diaz is not fully fit.
“Dinamo had more of a defend and counter approach in all their Champions League games so far, but we chose a team to spread the play wider, to bring in pace, win a few attacking duels and hopefully I made the right picks.”
Pioli has said repeatedly that Milan are still growing and going through the levels after their surprise Scudetto victory last season.
“Like with all decisive games we have faced, they allowed us to grow and learn how to be in this competition. It’s an in or out match, like many we have dealt with before. Chelsea lost here and Salzburg drew, so we know it is tough, but the team is concentrated and aware of the opportunity.”