In a massive fixture for the Champions League, Barcelona travel to the San Siro to take on AC Milan. The Rossoneri will have a tough job facing Barca. Milan aren’t going to roll over easy however, despite losing key players since the last time the two clubs met.
The exit of Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva crushed the Italian side, however, form is gradually starting to improve with time.
El Shaarawy has proved a key player in AC’s success this season. Plus, January’s arrival Mario Balotelli has fast become a fan favourite (unfortunately tonight he is cup tied, having featured in the competitions group stages for former club, Manchester City.) Meanwhile, Pazzini is fit and is likely to start, Nigel De Jong is unavailable.
Barcelona, on the other hand, are currently running away with La Liga having forged a 12 point advantage over second place Atletico Madrid.
Tito’s men won last time out in the League. A Messi double earned them a deserved three points. Xavi was injured this game but is likely to return tonight. He, alongside Andres Iniesta will look to cause havoc for AC’s defence.
Milan’s midfield better be ready for a tough job. Lionel Messi is on top form (as always) and is tipped to get a goal or two this evening. The Argentine striker has already scored 35 goals in 24 league matches this season, plus 5 out of 5 in the Champions League.
Kick-Off: 19:45
Date: 20th February 2013
Likely Line-Ups:
AC Milan:
Abbiati
Abate Zapata Mexes Constant
Montolivo Ambrosini Muntari
Boateng Pazzini El Shaarawy
Barcelona:
Valdes
Alves Puyol Pique Alba
Xavi Busquets Cesc
Pedro Messi Iniesta
This clash is set to be huge, with two of Europe’s biggest teams locking horns. Barcelona are one of the worlds best and AC Milan are improving more and more. This is one for all football fans to tune into.