AC Milan – Rennes : Preview & Prediction
Seven-time European champions AC Milan failed to progress from the “group of death” in the UEFA Champions League, but a 2-1 win over Newcastle on matchday six at least secured a place in the Europa League playoff round. Rossoneri fans will be grateful to be back in European action given the club’s complex momentum in Serie A, as it sits eight points behind leaders Inter.
Despite what that may suggest, AC Milan have accumulated their third most points after 24 Serie A games in the three-point win era (52). A record of just one defeat in their last 12 matches in all competitions (G9, E2) has certainly helped record that impressive points total, while they were beaten in just one of their last eight home games (G6, E1). Now, the Italian side is eager for a win in this competition, and while that result is not assured for Milan, scoring at least seems a formality, as they have managed to score in 18 consecutive matches.
Rennes missed out on top spot in their Europa League group by a single point after losing to Villarreal on matchday six. That was the last time Julien Stéphan’s men lost (G8, E1), and with that run including eight consecutive victories, the Rouge et Bleu are among the continent’s best-performing teams.
However, the visitors do not have positive memories of their previous visits to Italy, as Rennes lost their previous three away games to Serie A opponents, conceding two goals in each of those matches. However, a run of five consecutive official wins on rival soil should give Stéphan’s side confidence, especially as they scored 15 goals in that span.
Players to watch: AC Milan’s Olivier Giroud has accumulated six goal contributions in his seven official matches in 2024 (three goals, three assists), and three of his last four goals were registered before halftime. Meanwhile, Arnaud Kalimuendo has scored seven goals in Rennes’ run of eight consecutive victories, all between the 30th and 60th minutes.
Weekend stat: Rennes have scored before halftime in five of their six UEFA Europa League matches this season.
AC Milan – Rennes : Betting Tips
AC Milan – Win Odds: 1.65
