In the ever-turbulent sea of European football, few fixtures capture the imagination quite like a clash between historic Italian giants. This Thursday, AC Milan and AS Roma, two storied clubs rich in history and ambition, will lock horns in a match that promises not only to entertain but also to add another riveting chapter to their long-standing rivalry. For both teams, the Europa League represents a beacon of redemption and an opportunity to claim silverware in seasons that have, in their own ways, both defied and fallen short of expectations.
Date: 11/06/2024
Kick-off time: 20:00
Location: San Siro
Milan's journey this season has been one of solid improvements, building upon the foundations laid in a previous campaign that, by their lofty standards, fell short of expectations. Currently positioned 2nd in Serie A, Milan have showcased a level of consistency that had been missing. However, the shadow of city rivals Inter looms large, with a 14-point gap separating the two sides with only seven games remaining. This stark reality underscores the importance of the Europa League for Milan, transforming it from a prestigious competition to a must-win trophy to salvage their season.
Under the guidance of Stefano Pioli, Milan have exhibited resilience and tactical nous. Yet, they find themselves chasing a ghost of sorts - the spectre of last season's European disappointment, where they fell to Inter in a Champions League semi-final that left scars both on the pitch and in the hearts of their fans. For a club with Milan's European pedigree, having lifted the Champions League trophy seven times, their record in the Europa League stands out as an anomaly. Never having won this competition in twelve attempts, with their best performance being a semi-final appearance in 1971-72, Milan are hungry to rewrite this chapter of their history.
This season, Milan boast a squad blending experience with youthful exuberance. Rafael Leão continues to dazzle, with his pace and skill a constant threat on the wing. Théo Hernández's marauding runs from left-back position have become a trademark of Milan's attacking play. Meanwhile, Christian Pulisic has found a new lease on life in Milan, contributing significantly to the team's offensive output. These players, among others, form the backbone of a Milan team that are determined to prove their European mettle.
AS Roma's season has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. Languishing in 5th place in Serie A, the club has experienced its share of highs and lows. The sacking of José Mourinho and the subsequent appointment of club legend Daniele De Rossi as manager marked a turning point. Under De Rossi's stewardship, Roma has undergone a transformation, playing with renewed vigour and an emphasis on attacking football. This shift has reinvigorated players like Paulo Dybala and Romelu Lukaku, who have been instrumental in Roma's resurgence.
Roma's recent European track record is impressive, having reached the semi-finals or beyond in major European competitions in each of the last three seasons. This pedigree, combined with the painful memory of last season's Europa League final defeat to Sevilla on penalties, fuels Roma's desire for European glory. The Europa Conference League title remains Roma's sole European triumph, a fact that the club are eager to change by adding the Europa League trophy to their cabinet.
The psychological aspect of Roma's matchup with Milan cannot be understated. Having failed to secure a victory against Milan in their last nine encounters, including two losses this season, Roma face a daunting challenge. This record serves as both a hurdle and a source of motivation for De Rossi's men, who are determined to overturn their fortunes and prove their capabilities on the European stage.
This Thursday's encounter between AC Milan and AS Roma is more than just a game; it's a narrative of rivalry and the relentless pursuit of glory. For Milan, it's an opportunity to claim a title that has eluded them and to make amends for past European disappointments. For Roma, it represents a chance to consolidate their resurgence under De Rossi and to lay to rest the ghosts of last season's final.
Serie A 
