Juventus and AC Milan have made a perfect start to the season with two wins each, facing lesser teams that are used to the depths of the table. As early as the third matchday, however, they are set to go head-to-head in the battle for the top.
Juventus finally seem to be heading in the right direction. They started strongly, with two wins without conceding a goal; it has long been clear that defence is their main strength and they rely heavily on keeping clean sheets.
On transfer deadline day, however, they also signed Nick Woltemade on loan, thereby strengthening their attack. This is a strong signing that will certainly make them more dangerous in the final third.
AC Milan have also made a convincing start, although they have faced rather lacklustre opponents. Ruben Amorim’s side were far from looking their best in pre-season, but they are certainly impressing with their play now.
However, their first real test lies ahead, as they have yet to face a side like Juventus in a competitive match.
It will be interesting, as both managers rely on a strong defence, so it is entirely possible that this match will turn into a tactical battle with little in the way of action.
How the bookies view it: The Old Lady gets the nod
As has often been the case in recent years, the bookmakers have struggled to pick a clear favourite, although the Old Lady have a noticeable advantage in the odds at this stage.
At the moment, you can back Juventus at 11/10, a draw at 9/4, or AC Milan at 27/10.
Recent head-to-head: A string of goalless draws
There aren’t many rivalries that have been as closely contested in recent years as that between Juventus and AC Milan. Five of the last 10 matches between the two sides have ended in a draw.
Last season, both matches ended 0–0, which is certainly not something we’d like to see again.
Players to watch: Goncalo Ramos has arrived
All eyes will be on AC Milan’s new star. Goncalo Ramos arrived from PSG for €74.0 million two months ago and has already started scoring crucial goals.
The Portuguese forward will be a fixture in the starting line-up and can be expected to be the main target for crosses.
As well as being a superb goalscorer, Ramos also has a wealth of experience at the very highest level, so we expect him to have chances to score.
Probable line-ups
Juventus: Vicario, Celik, Lucumi, Bremer, Kalulu, Locatelli, Luiz, Boga, Gonzalez, Conceicao, Kolo Muani
AC Milan: Maignan, Pavlovic, De Winter, Gila, Chukwueze, Musah, Modric, Bartesaghi, Rabiot, Cisse, Ramos
Anything else catch the eye?
As much as I’d like to expect goals in a derby like this, these two teams have shown just how difficult it is for them to beat one another. Four of their last six meetings have ended 0–0.
We might see a bit more this early in the season, but the highest score I’m expecting is 1–1. As well as under 2.5 goals, I’m going to back Juventus to win some corners.
AC Milan don’t look too bad in defence, but Juventus’s new style clearly involves a lot of play down the wings. They won 12 corners against Frosinone and 10 against Parma, so Over 5.5 at 11/10 feels like a fantastic opportunity.
When a price looks too good to ignore, that’s value. Learn how to identify it with our Value Betting guide.
GambleAware