Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 17, 2024, marks the start of the UEFA Champions League 2024-2025 group stage with a thrilling showdown between AC Milan and Liverpool at the iconic San Siro Stadium. Both teams bring significant European pedigree and history to this match, making it one of the most anticipated fixtures of the week.
Form and Key Players
AC Milan enters this contest off a 4-0 win against Venezia in Serie A, which should boost confidence after a mixed start to their domestic season. Key players for Milan include left-back Theo Hernandez and forward Rafael Leão, who will be pivotal in their attack. They will also rely on the experience of Christian Pulisic to orchestrate play in the final third. Milan’s home record is strong, having remained unbeaten at the San Siro in their last seven matches.
Liverpool, led by new coach Arne Slot, has had an impressive season so far but recently fell to Nottingham Forest in a surprise defeat. Nonetheless, players like Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, and Diogo Jota will be major threats to the Milan defense. Salah’s Champions League experience could prove decisive, while Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold will marshal Liverpool’s defense.
Home Advantage
Milan enjoys a solid home advantage, particularly in Champions League fixtures. They have been unbeaten in their previous home games this season, scoring an average of three goals per game. The atmosphere of the San Siro could give them an edge, especially against a Liverpool side that will be keen to bounce back from a recent loss.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Current odds slightly favor Liverpool due to their better recent head-to-head record, having won the last five encounters between the two teams. Betting odds are hovering around 3.96 for a Milan win, 4.08 for a draw, and 1.93 for a Liverpool victory. Many predictions lean toward a Liverpool win, with a 3-1 scoreline being a popular forecast.
Kick-off is at 8:00 PM UK time, and the match will be broadcast on Amazon Prime. Expect a high-energy clash as both sides vie for early points in this season’s Champions League campaign.
