Serie A Round 14 Preview: AC Milan Facing Shortage at Both Ends, Genoa Favors Lower Table Opponents

As Serie A continues into Round 14, the challenges for AC Milan and Genoa are apparent. AC Milan, grappling with injuries in both defense and attack, may need to rely on midfielders filling in at the back and young prospects up front. Genoa, on the other hand, has found success against lower-table teams and looks to continue this trend against Empoli.

AC Milan vs. Frosinone: Can Camarda Lift the Spirits at San Siro?

AC Milan is in a precarious position with injuries ravaging their defense and attack. They are expected to field midfielders as makeshift defenders. In attack, the team may have to rely on the youthful exuberance of Francesco Camarda rather than the underperforming Luka Jović. Milan's recent performances have been marred by key absences, notably Olivier Giroud's suspension and Rafael Leão's injury.

In their recent Champions League match, Giroud almost gave Milan fans a reason to celebrate with an early penalty opportunity. However, he failed to convert, and minutes later, Dortmund capitalized on their penalty chance. This rollercoaster of emotions continued when Samuel Chukwueze scored his first goal for Milan, providing a fleeting moment of hope before Dortmund asserted their dominance. Milan fans are now left to anxiously hope for progression from the group stage, but their confidence is understandably shaken.

Meanwhile, Frosinone, last season’s Serie B champions, have been impressively resilient. Over the last six rounds, they have secured three wins, outscoring Milan by a point during this period. Their solid form has seen them climb to mid-table, showcasing their ability to compete. They have conceded two or more goals in only three matches this season, all against top-five teams, and have been highly effective in collecting points against lower and mid-table opposition.

In their previous match against Genoa, Frosinone demonstrated their strength by maintaining almost 60% possession and making strategic substitutions to turn the game in their favor. The decisive goal was scored by substitute defender Riccardo Monterisi, highlighting the team’s depth and tactical flexibility.

AC Milan faces severe squad limitations for this match. With Giroud suspended, Leão injured, and Jović struggling to find form, young Camarda may be thrust into the spotlight. The defense is equally depleted, potentially requiring Rade Krunić to fill in as a center-back, as he did in the Champions League. Given these constraints, Milan might struggle to secure a win, and a 0-0 draw seems a plausible outcome against a resilient Frosinone side.

Genoa vs. Empoli: Serie B Runner-Up Aiming for Another Win Against Lower Table Teams

Genoa, a newly promoted side, has capitalized on their defensive solidity to secure important wins. They have recently won two of their last four matches, extending their buffer above the relegation zone. Last season, their staunch defense earned them direct promotion from Serie B, and they have continued to prioritize defensive strength in Serie A, conceding the third-fewest goals among the bottom half teams.

Genoa’s recent victories have come against the bottom two teams in the league, Salernitana and Verona, both by a 1-0 scoreline. Their next opponent, Empoli, sits third from the bottom, and Genoa will look to continue their successful run against lower-table teams. Playing at home, Genoa aims to complete a trifecta of victories against the league’s stragglers, which would significantly bolster their standing before facing stronger opponents in the upcoming rounds.

Empoli has had a challenging season, starting with five consecutive losses, including a 7-0 thrashing by Roma. However, they have shown signs of revival, earning seven points in their last six matches—a decent tally for a team fighting relegation. In their recent match against Sassuolo, Empoli showed early promise by scoring a fourth-minute penalty, only to be outdone by Sassuolo’s attacking prowess, losing 4-3. Scoring three goals in a match, a season-high for them, was a positive sign despite the loss.

Genoa’s home form has been solid, remaining unbeaten in their last five home matches against Empoli, with two wins and three draws. Given their stability and defensive strength at home, they are likely to secure another narrow victory, potentially another 1-0 result, against an Empoli side still struggling to find consistent form.

Key Players and Matchups

For AC Milan, the key player to watch will be young Francesco Camarda, who may have the chance to shine in the absence of experienced forwards. His performance will be crucial in providing a spark for Milan’s attack. In defense, Rade Krunić’s adaptability and leadership will be vital in stabilizing a makeshift backline.

Frosinone’s resilience will be tested against Milan, with Riccardo Monterisi likely to play a key role in defense, while their midfield will need to control the tempo and disrupt Milan’s play.

Genoa will rely on their solid defensive unit, with goalkeeper Josep Martinez and central defender Mattia Bani crucial in maintaining their defensive record. In attack, Albert Gudmundsson’s creativity and finishing will be key in breaking down Empoli’s defense.

Empoli’s hopes rest on their ability to replicate the attacking form they showed against Sassuolo, with striker Francesco Caputo and midfielder Tommaso Baldanzi needing to step up. Defensive solidity will also be crucial, with center-back Sebastiano Luperto playing a pivotal role.

Tactical Insights

AC Milan’s tactical approach will likely involve a more defensive setup, given their injury woes and the need to protect a makeshift defense. Stefano Pioli may opt for a conservative game plan, focusing on maintaining possession and limiting Frosinone’s chances. Quick transitions and exploiting set-pieces could be their best hope for scoring.

Frosinone, under Eusebio Di Francesco, has shown tactical flexibility, often adjusting their strategy based on the opponent. Against Milan, they might adopt a counter-attacking approach, using their pace on the wings and the physical presence of their forwards to create scoring opportunities.

Genoa’s tactical approach will focus on their defensive strength, with a disciplined and organized backline. Coach Alberto Gilardino will likely employ a compact midfield to disrupt Empoli’s play and rely on swift counter-attacks and set-pieces to score.

Empoli, needing points to climb out of the relegation zone, might adopt a more aggressive approach, pressing high and trying to exploit any gaps in Genoa’s defense. However, they must balance this with defensive caution to avoid being caught out on the counter.

Predictions and Expected Outcomes

Given the current form and squad situations, AC Milan may struggle to secure a win against a resilient Frosinone side. A 0-0 draw seems a likely outcome, given Milan’s depleted squad and Frosinone’s solid defensive record.

Genoa, on the other hand, will look to continue their success against lower-table teams. A 1-0 victory over Empoli is a plausible outcome, given their strong home form and defensive discipline. This win would further distance them from the relegation zone and build confidence for tougher matches ahead.

In conclusion, Round 14 of Serie A presents contrasting challenges for AC Milan and Genoa. Milan’s injury crisis and Frosinone’s resilience suggest a tough match at San Siro, while Genoa’s solid form against lower-table teams provides them with a favorable outlook against Empoli. The tactical approaches, key players, and matchups will be crucial in determining the outcomes of these encounters. Fans can expect intense and closely contested matches as the teams battle for vital points.