REAL MADRID v AC MILAN: MATCH PREVIEW
AC Milan is gearing up for a high-stakes clash against Real Madrid on matchday four of the UEFA Champions League 2024/25. This thrilling encounter is slated for Tuesday, November 5, kicking off at 21:00 CET at the magnificent Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, a venue renowned for its electric atmosphere and storied history. Both clubs are poised to display their best performances in this pivotal phase of the tournament, and anticipation sweeps over fans as we delve into our comprehensive Match Preview.
UPDATE FROM MILANELLO
Following a disappointing start to their Champions League campaign with losses to Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen, AC Milan unleashed their potential with an impressive victory against Club Brugge, earning their first crucial points. In Serie A, a narrow but much-needed win over Monza has revitalized the squad and trimmed the gap to the league leaders. Head Coach Fonseca’s team has swiftly shifted focus to the Spanish challenge, showcasing a readiness that requires no additional motivation as they prepare for one of the season’s most eagerly anticipated fixtures. Although defender Gabbia remains sidelined, tactical adjustments may see changes in the defense and frontline, with Pulisic likely taking a starting role behind former Madrid star Morata.
“A game like this gives you great motivation. We know that we have to take on the best to win the Champions League – said Head Coach Fonseca– in this case, the current champions: it’s a chance for us to show our worth. We must be courageous, fearless on the pitch and committed to putting on a good show”.
UPDATE FROM REAL MADRID
Real Madrid has displayed resilience this season, managing a commendable performance against Stuttgart, a surprising defeat to Lille, and an exhilarating recovery against Borussia Dortmund. Despite suffering a setback with a heavy loss to Barcelona in the recent El Clásico (4-0), Ancelotti’s side remains formidable, and they look to bounce back from their postponed trip to Valencia due to devastating flooding in the region. Their strengths are manifold, bolstered by home advantage, seasoned experience, and individual brilliance from key players like Vinícius, Mbappé, and Bellingham. However, they will seek to overcome challenges with the absence of Courtois and Rodrygo still recovering from injury.
“We are sad about the tragedy that has hit Valencia, talking about and playing football at this time is complicated. Taking on AC Milan is special – Ancelotti stated – I’m expecting a great yet difficult match. The Rossoneri haven’t started well but they have great potential, we haven’t done our best either but we’re not far off”.
PRE-MATCH NUMBERS
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AC Milan, apart from the 3-2 in October 2009, have not beaten Real Madrid in the Champions League (two losses, one draw).
WHERE TO WATCH REAL MADRID v AC MILAN
In Italy, the match will be broadcast by Sky and NOW. To watch it in another country, you can check the “Where to Watch Milan on TV” section under “Abroad.” On the Rossoneri channels, the Matchday show will air on Milan TV starting at 8:00 PM, leading up to kick-off, followed by exclusive interviews and Coach Fonseca’s press briefing. Make sure not to miss the extensive coverage available on acmilan.com, the AC Milan Official App, official social media platforms, and WhatsApp.
Current standings: Aston Villa and Liverpool 9; Manchester City, Monaco, Brest, Bayer Leverkusen, Inter and Sporting Lisbon and Arsenal 7; Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid, Benfica, Juventus, Lille and Feyenoord 6; Atalanta 5; Stuttgart, PSG, Celtic, Sparta Prague and Dinamo Zagreb 4; Bayern Monaco, Girona, AC Milan, Club Brugge and Atlético Madrid 3; PSV 2; Bologna and Shakhtar Donetsk 1; RB Leipzig, Sturm Graz, Crvena Zvezda, RB Salzburg, Young Boys and Slovan Bratislava 0.
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**Interview with Football Analyst, Marco Rossi**
*Interviewer*: Good evening, Marco. As we near the highly anticipated clash between Real Madrid and AC Milan, what are your thoughts on the current form of both teams?
*Marco Rossi*: Good evening! Both teams come into this match with contrasting narratives. AC Milan had a rocky start to their Champions League campaign, but their recent victory over Club Brugge seemed to ignite some belief within the squad. They’ve also created momentum with a crucial win in Serie A against Monza, which should give them a boost.
*Interviewer*: Certainly, momentum is key in these high-stakes matches. What can you tell us about Milan’s tactical approach against Real Madrid?
*Marco Rossi*: Head Coach Fonseca is likely to adopt a bold strategy. Given their impressive attacking talents, especially players like Pulisic and Morata, I expect them to take the game to Madrid. However, they must also be cautious—Real has the individual brilliance to exploit any defensive lapses.
*Interviewer*: Speaking of Real Madrid, they have had their ups and downs this season. How do you assess their chances heading into this match?
*Marco Rossi*: Real Madrid is always a formidable foe, especially at the Bernabéu. Despite their recent setback in El Clásico, they have shown resilience and explosive capability in other matches. The loss of key players like Courtois is a concern, but with talents like Mbappé and Bellingham available, they can still pose a significant threat.
*Interviewer*: Do you foresee any tactical adjustments from either side?
*Marco Rossi*: It’s likely. For Milan, defensive changes may be necessary with Gabbia’s absence. They may look to solidify their backline while still pushing forward. For Real, Ancelotti might need to adjust his strategies to capitalize on home advantage while managing the emotions from their recent matches and the tragedy in Valencia.
*Interviewer*: What would you say to fans trying to secure a spot to watch the match?
*Marco Rossi*: It’s a must-watch! The atmosphere at the Bernabéu should be electric and both teams will want to prove a point. Whether in Italy on Sky and NOW or through international broadcasts, fans should find a way to tune in. This match may well set the tone for the remainder of the Champions League group stage.
*Interviewer*: Thank you, Marco, for sharing your insights. It promises to be an exhilarating match!
*Marco Rossi*: My pleasure! Let’s see who rises to the occasion on November 5th!