For the return leg against “Rennes” in France, Stefano Pioli’s team approached the match after a 3-0 home victory. Despite a substantial lead, AC Milan took the field with a lineup close to the main one. The French made the “Rossoneri” nervous, taking the lead three times, but overall, Milan confidently secured victory over the two legs, coming from behind twice out of three. Jovic and Leao scored for the “Red and Blacks” in the 2-3 result. Between the European matches, AC Milan faced “Monza” away, trailing 0-2 after the first half, equalizing during the second half but conceding late twice, ultimately losing 2-4. Consequently, the “Rossoneri” missed the chance to overtake the stumbling “Juventus” once again and remained in third place in the league table.
Atalanta will kick off the Europa League playoffs from the Round of 16, allowing them to focus entirely on the domestic league for now. The absence of a second front has had a positive impact on Gian Piero Gasperini’s team, and before the 26th Serie A matchday, they solidified their position in fourth place in the standings, currently qualifying for the Champions League. In the previous round, Atalanta confidently defeated “Sassuolo” at home (3-0) with goals from Pasalic, Koopmeiners, and Bakker, and Alexey Miranchuk started the match, playing 74 minutes. Atalanta secured their fifth consecutive victory in the league. More direct win prediction can be obtained from the link provided.