In a battle for Top 4 places, AC Milan took on Juventus at the San Siro admist an injury crisis at the back with Milan’s main 2 CBs injured. Juve were having their fair share of players missing with Bonucci and De Ligt not able to make it for the game meaning Rugani and Chiellini started in defense.
Here are some of the key tactical points.
1. Condition of the pitch
It was a point which was discussed even before a ball was kicked but in the end it was inevitable. Milan’s pass completion rate which averaged around 81%, usually came down to 79% with the ball not travelling as much as usual. Milan were not able to string any passing combinations and we’re going route 1 to Giroud but we’re not able to back him up.
2. Doubling down on Leao and packing the wings
Allegri’s plan was to cut down the wings with Leao and he did that by Doubling down on Leao with Mattia De Sciglio and Cuardado (although he acted as a RW, he was a RWB). Cuardado would double team on Leao and not give him any space to operate.
They packed the wings and prevented any sort of overlap from the full backs.
3. Lack of a consistent set-piece plan
Milan ever since the days of Pirlo have not had a consistent set piece taker. While we had Hakan last few seasons he was ineffective and Milan never posed a threat from set pieces. Working on this aspect could help milan unlock stubborn defences.
4. Plenty of Shot creating actions but no Goal Threat
A drab draw at best, Juve had 14 actions that resulted in a shot but somehow not a single shot landed at Maignan or became a goal.
Milan meanwhile had 22 shots on targets off which only 4 were on target.
5. Classic Allegri approach
This match had Allegri written all over it with Juve playing more towards protecting their goal than trying to score. And this can be seen at how deep they defender on and off the ball.
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