EMPOLI v AC MILAN: THE BRIEFING

Truly significant. In Empoli, AC Milan will play their first Serie A match of 2024, one that needs to be won to improve the Rossoneri's away form, which has been shaky in the league for months. It's only January, but the turning point of the season is already here, with Matchday 19 marking the end of the first half of the season. Here's the Briefing for Empoli v AC Milan:

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE MOMENT
AC Milan has consistently slowed down after good performances away from home (the draw in Salerno, after the 3-0 win against Monza, and the loss in Bergamo after the 3-1 win against Frosinone), a series of ups and downs that has made things less certain. However, the Rossoneri’s current form is still considerably better than that of the opposition: Empoli is in a fully-fledged battle for survival, just one point away from being at the bottom. Therefore, Pioli's side, aside from the obvious technical superiority, must also take advantage of the opponent's less brilliant form, especially when Empoli are at home, where they've earned fewer points (five) and scored fewer goals (five) than AC Milan have earned when playing away from the San Siro. Knowing this, the Rossoneri can choose to be aggressive and try to unlock the game early; Playing a less ferocious approach to endure until the end remains a viable but, riskier option.

STRENGTHENING THE DEFENCE AWAY FROM HOME
If Empoli, in general, scores few goals, AC Milan has recently conceded a lot in away matches. In Napoli, Lecce, Bergamo, and Salerno we’ve conceded nine goals. It's a negative statistic and correcting it would be the first fundamental step to increase the chances of victory away from the San Siro. The Rossoneri have conceded goals in various ways: whilst ahead, two up, with a level scoreline, at the start of games and at the end. Often due to lapses in concentration, so maximum alertness is required. A goal would give confidence to the Tuscans, but AC Milan must keep them at bay, without allowing any careless mistakes that could prove costly. A clean sheet would exponentially increase the Rossoneri's chances, especially with a strong and in-form attacking department. In terms of defense, goalkeepers will play a significant role: Maignan is consistently accustomed to making magic happen, and Caprile is making great saves, including the penalty just saved against Cagliari.

DOWN THE FLANK AND STRIKING FORCES
Now, let's talk about the attack, a sector constantly under the spotlight when trying to decipher the fate of a match. AC Milan needs Leão, and goals from Leão. The Portuguese has been goalless in the league since September but returned to scoring in the Coppa Italia a few days ago. Just in time to bounce back against Empoli, a team he already scored against in October 2022. The flank seems to be a weakspot for Empoli, an incentive to favor the wings: both left and right, as Pulisic is also making a difference. The wings act as engines to ignite, accelerate, and supply; yes, while Giroud remains the beacon, Jović seems to be consistently improving as he takes on the role of the primary finisher. Speaking of forwards, Empoli is no stranger, the combo of Caputo and Cambiaghi complete the squad as their most dangerous weapons: a mix of interesting offensive characteristics that are difficult to mark closely.

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