AC Milan are in good form heading into their Europa League round of 16 tie against Slavia Prague. The Rossoneri beat Lazio 1-0 in Serie A on Friday to maintain the pressure on Juventus in second place.
Milan have not won an away European knockout match since 2017/18, so they will be looking to make the most of their home advantage in the first leg. They have a good record against Czech teams, having won six and drawn two of their eight meetings with Sparta Prague, Slavia’s rivals.
Slavia Prague are in a bit of a slump, having drawn their last two matches in all competitions. They are also without a win in Italy in eight European matches.
However, they do have a good record in the Europa League, having reached the quarter-finals in 2020/21. They will be hoping to cause an upset at the San Siro and take a lead back to Prague for the second leg.
Key players
Rafael Leão has scored two goals in his last two appearances for Milan, and he will be hoping to continue his good form against Slavia Prague.
Mojmír Chytil has scored in three consecutive league matches for Slavia Prague, and he will be the visitors’ main goal threat.
Stats
Both teams have scored and there have been over 3.5 goals in Slavia Prague’s last six European knockout matches.
Milan have won six and drawn two of their eight meetings with Czech teams.
Prediction
Milan are the favorites to win this tie, but Slavia Prague are no pushovers. I think it will be a close-fought affair, but I’m going to go for a 2-1 win for Milan in the first leg.
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