AC Milan will be looking to put their 2-0 embarrassing loss to Cesena behind them when they host French side AJ Auxerre tomorrow night at the San Siro. The Rossoneri have been tipped to win silverware this season and with Ibrahimovic and Robinho joining this summer, Milan is definitely one of the favourites to make it to the final in Wembley.
Milan’s new acquisitions are however giving coach Massimiliano Allegri sleepless nights as the tactician struggles to decide who to start and who to leave on the bench. The 7 time European champions will face an impressive Auxerre who had a stellar season last year.
There is no doubting Milan’s striking force with Prince, Ronaldinho, Inzaghi Pato etc the Rossoneri should be the most talented squad in the tournament. Their only weakness however, is their defense. Milan has always had defensive problems and even the addition of Sokratis and Yeppes does not seem to have solved it.
Auxerre on the other hand will be hoping that their dismal start to the season ends when they take to the pitch tomorrow. The French side has not won any of its 5 league games this season and is currently in 17th position in the standings. Their last outing resulted in a 1-1 draw with Caen. Still waiting for some continental glory, Auxerre cannot be ruled out.
Probable line ups and team news
Allegri is likely to field a 4-3-3 formation with: Abbiatti, Bonera, Zambrotta, Nesta, Antonini, Pirlo, Ronaldinho, Seerdorf, Prince, Pato, Ibrahimovic.
Robinho and Inzaghi who is chasing the all time top European goal scorer record will start on the bench but are likely to come on for Prince and Seerdorf. Gattusso is also available for selection but after Saturday’s loss, Allegri might opt to keep him on the bench.
Auxerre are likely to play in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Jelen playing as the lone striker. Coach Jean Fernandez is likely to start with Sorin (GK), Hengbart, Coulibaly, Mignot, Grichling, Pedretti, Ndinga, Oliech, Le Tallec, Birsa, Jelen.
Prediction
Milan will want to make up for their loss on Saturday by winning in front of their fans. That said, Auxerre cannot be underestimated. Final score: Milan 2 Auxerre 0.
Photo credit: from berling_milan
