AC Milan are looking to eliminate Rennes FC in the Europa League, as they already have a three-goal lead against their opponent. During the first leg of the knockout stage, Milan dominated the match, scoring three goals against Rennes. The result though is not surprising, as Milan is a team from the Champions League. Additionally, Milan are very impressive domestically, which is why it is not surprising that they are dominant here. Meanwhile, for Rennes, they were able to finish at the second of their group in the group stage. However, this match is more challenging for Rennes, as they need to climb mountains in order to qualify for the next round. The meeting between these two teams is on February 23, 2024, at 1:45 AM (GMT+8).
AC Milan
Milan secured a 3-0 victory at San Siro, becoming the first Rossoneri player to score twice in a European knockout game in 17 years. The Italian giants finished third in a tough group, dropping down into the Europa League playoffs. However, beating Rennes puts them on track towards a first-ever triumph in UEFA’s second-tier tournament. Milan have gone through to the next round 39 times from 45 previous European ties after winning at home in the first leg. However, Stefano Pioli’s team suffered a setback in Serie A last weekend, with Luka Jovic sent off for reacting to provocation in a 4-2 loss at Monza. Milan is still within two points of second-placed Juventus, while Inter Milan is 11 clear of the Rossoneri. The Europa League is likely their last chance of claiming silverware this season.
Milan boss Stefano Pioli will name a familiar XI at Roazhon Park after six changes on Sunday. Rafael Leao appeared as a substitute due to a calf problem, while Christian Pulisic and Olivier Giroud scored. Luka Jovic is suspended for violent conduct. Pierre Kalulu, Fikayo Tomori, and captain Davide Calabria are not yet back from injury.
Rennes FC
Rennes, a team that finished second to Villarreal in the group phase, have been in good form since overcoming Group F in the autumn. They have now to overcome a challenging playoff contest to progress to the last 16, and their recent win over Clermont Foot was a significant boost. Rennes has also started a push for European qualification since Julien Stephan’s arrival as head coach, following Bruno Genesio’s departure. Stephan has helped the Breton club move within two points of Lens in Ligue 1, winning 11 of his 15 games in charge. Rennes is currently in seventh place in the Serie A standings and has not been at their best this season. Their next target is to pull off a miraculous fightback to stun Milan.
Rennes made league lineup changes, with Bourigeaud and Doue returning. Enzo Le Fee and Fabian Rieder are notable absentees, while Arnaud Kalimuendo may be sidelined again.
Prediction:
AC Milan (1.5)
Odds: -0.80
AC Milan to win on aggregate (4-1)
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