UCL 23-24: AC Milan vs Newcastle United: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

The Champions League matchday 1 is upon us

The stage is set for a thrilling clash as AC Milan squares off against Newcastle United in the 2023-24 Champions League season. This encounter marks a significant moment for Newcastle, as they return to Europe’s top table after a hiatus of two decades. The Magpies will face a formidable opponent in AC Milan, a club with a rich history and seven-time Champions League winners. As fans eagerly anticipate Tuesday’s Group F battle at San Siro, let’s delve into the match preview, exploring key facts, team news, players to watch, the head-to-head record, and a prediction for the showdown.

For Newcastle United, the journey to the Champions League has been nothing short of remarkable. After a tough start to the Premier League season that included three consecutive losses, the Magpies found their footing with a hard-fought victory over Brentford. The win, secured by a Callum Wilson penalty, breathed new life into the team and relieved some of the pressure that had been building on manager Eddie Howe.

AC Milan, on the other hand, has been a familiar face in European competitions. The Rossoneri, with their storied history and seven Champions League titles to their name, are a formidable opponent for any team. However, they come into this match fresh off a humbling defeat to Inter Milan in the Derby della Madonnina.

Kick-Off:

Tuesday, September 19, 2023, 10.15 PM (IST) at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milan, Italy.

Form:

AC Milan: W W W L

Newcastle United: W L L L W

Players to Watch

Rafael Leao (AC Milan)

Leao has been in good form and could pose a significant threat to Newcastle’s defense. His ability to score and create opportunities will be crucial for Milan.

Alexander Isak (Newcastle United)

Isak, a talented young striker, will look to make an impression in his first Champions League appearance. His pace and finishing could trouble Milan’s backline.

Match facts for AC Milan vs Newcastle United

• Newcastle United recently snapped a three-game losing streak in the Premier League with a victory over Brentford.
• AC Milan, on the other hand, suffered a humiliating defeat to Inter Milan in the Derby della Madonnina, where they conceded five goals, a rare occurrence in their historic rivalry.
• Milan’s recent record as the “home” side has been impressive, with just one loss in their last 13 competitive matches in that role.

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Team news and Injury for AC Milan vs Newcastle United

AC Milan:

• AC Milan will be without center-back Pierre Kalulu, who is sidelined with a thigh injury that could keep him out for several weeks.
• Ismael Bennacer is on the road to recovery from knee surgery and will not be available for the match.
• Fikayo Tomori, who was suspended during the Derby della Madonnina, is eligible to return and may take the place of Malick Thiaw.
• Christian Pulisic had a quiet game in the derby, and Samuel Chukwueze could be considered for a starting role alongside Rafael Leao and Olivier Giroud.

Newcastle United:

• Newcastle will be without Joe Willock (calf) and Emil Krafth (knee) for their Champions League opener.
• Joelinton is also unavailable due to a knee injury he sustained while playing for Brazil.
• Eddie Howe, the Magpies’ head coach, breathed a sigh of relief when his team ended their three-game losing streak with a win over Brentford, and Callum Wilson played a crucial role in securing the victory.
• With Tonali’s expected return for Milan, 20-year-old Elliot Anderson might make way in the lineup.

Head-to-Head (UCL)

Matches: 0

AC Milan: 0

Draws: 0

Newcastle United: 0

Predicted Lineup for AC Milan vs Newcastle United

AC Milan Predicted Lineup:

Maignan; Calabria, Tomori, Kjaer, Hernandez; Reijnders, Krunic, Loftus-Cheek; Chukwueze, Giroud, Leao

Newcastle United Predicted Lineup:

Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Longstaff, Tonali, Guimaraes; Gordon, Isak, Barnes

Match Prediction for AC Milan vs Newcastle United

As the anticipation builds for this exciting showdown, it’s time to make a prediction. While Newcastle United’s return to the Champions League is a momentous occasion for the club and its fans, AC Milan enters the match as slight favorites.

Milan boasts more experience in European competition and will be motivated to bounce back after their recent derby defeat to Inter. Their strong track record as the “home” side in recent matches adds to their advantage.

However, Newcastle, with their newfound determination and the return of key players, should not be underestimated. They have the potential to give Milan a tough fight.

Prediction: AC Milan 2:1 Newcastle United

Telecast

India – Sony Sports Network

UK – discovery+, TNT Sports 1, discovery+ App

US – Paramount+, UniMas, Univision NOW, ViX, TUDN.com, TUDN App

Canada- DAZN

Nigeria – Sporty TV

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