By the look of things, this year’s scudetto race will be the most challenging ever witnessed in the Serie A in the past two years. With surprise leaders Lazio continuing their impressive run in the league after beating Cagliari 2-1 in Rome yesterday, the Biancocelesti furthered stretched their lead a top the Serie A table by 4 points.
The pressure is definitely on AC Milan tonight as they take on Napoli in a must win fixture. With arch rivals Inter Milan missing the chance to cut Lazio’s lead by 2 points, the Rossoneri won’t be taking any chances especially after their humiliating 2-0 loss to Real Madrid in last week’s Champions League mid week fixture.
Coach Massimiliano Allegri however, was quick to rubbish claims that Milan’s loss revealed huge problems at the club. Speaking to Italian sports daily Il Corrie Dello Sport, Allegri instead said that it was just one of those days when nothing seems to go right.
“I spoke to my team and we analysed many things. It’s important to have the same characteristics, enthusiasm, will and ruthlessness.”
“I saw the game again on DVD and it confirmed what I has seen on the pitch. Our problems happened in the first 15 minutes, and it wasn’t because our opponents were irresistable.”
Milan will be without influential play maker Ronaldinho for tonight’s match. Gaucho is said to have recovered from a muscular strain he sustained on Tuesday but will be rested for the fixture.
Allegri is however expected to make drastic changes to his squad with the likes of Boateng and Robinho starting. Boateng will replace Seedorf while Robinho will come on for Dinho.
Many are skeptical about Milan’s chances at the San Paolo and you can understand why. Without Dinho Milan normally struggle. However, Allegri’s changes in my view are very sound. Let’s face it, Seerdorf is no longer the player he used to be and what Milan need is more pace especially in midfield.
Milan will also be without Thiago Silva and Massimo Ambrosini who are still recovering from injuries. A loss will still leave the Rossoneri in 3rd place, however, Allegri will be keen on picking up all 3 points on offer.
Photo Credit: from Calcio Better
