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AC Milan (Milan) head to face Atalanta B.C. (Atalanta) on Tuesday evening in Bergamo — following a somewhat shaky result for Milan in their previous game.
Recap: The draw vs Pisa S.C.
Milan drew 2-2 at home against Pisa, a result that underlined several issues for the Rossoneri.
They took an early lead through Rafael Leão in the 7th minute. (beIN SPORTS)
However, Pisa responded via a penalty from Juan Cuadrado around the hour mark, and then took the unexpected lead through M’Bala Nzola in the 86th. (widgets.datasportsgroup.com)
Milan salvaged a point thanks to a 90+3′ strike by Zachary Athekame. (beIN SPORTS)
Coach Massimiliano Allegri admitted his team “lost clarity and shape” after going 1-0 up, identifying lapses in compactness and decision-making. (Football Italia)
Long-time Milan great Arrigo Sacchi also weighed in, saying that Milan are better than last season but still “not ready for the Scudetto,” pointing especially to the mental side of things. (SempreMilan)
So, the result was a wake-up call: for all Milan’s promise, the game exposed vulnerabilities that must be addressed ahead of tougher assignments.
Looking Ahead: Trip to Atalanta
Now Milan head to Bergamo to face Atalanta, a side with a reputation for being physically strong, tactically astute and dangerous on transitions.
The timing of this fixture could prove pivotal — Milan will want to bounce back quickly.
Squad / Injury News & Possible Changes
Milan are still dealing with a number of absences: players such as Pervis Estupiñán and Ruben Loftus‑Cheek remain doubtful, though there is cautious optimism around their returns. (SempreMilan)
One change is expected: Fikayo Tomori, rested in the Pisa match, is likely to return to the starting XI. (SempreMilan)
Up front, Leão is a guaranteed starter, given his recent form.
The choice alongside him between Santiago Giménez or Christopher Nkunku remains a dilemma for Allegri. (SempreMilan)
Tactical Focus & Adjustments
After the Pisa draw, Allegri emphasised the need for better structural discipline: staying compact after going ahead, avoiding too much “length” between the lines, ensuring that forwards keep closer to midfield to maintain balance. (Football Italia)
Against Atalanta, this will be especially important.
Atalanta typically press with intensity, exploit space between the lines and are dangerous on set-pieces and transitions.
Milan must therefore:
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Remain tight in defence and avoid inviting pressure.
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Keep the midfield close and organised to avoid being stretched.
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Be sharper in attacking transitions — after the Pisa game, they had many attempts (20 against 8 by Pisa) but did not convert enough. (beIN SPORTS)
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Improve their game management, especially when ahead — how they closed the game off showed flaws.
The Psychological Element
The reaction after the Pisa point suggests that the dressing room knows there’s work to be done.
Sacchi’s commentary put emphasis on the mentality: “It’s always the mind that moves the legs.” (SempreMilan)
Milan will need to carry that forward into Bergamo — a road game, under pressure, with little margin for error.
What To Expect
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A fired-up Milan side wanting to respond quickly and re-establish momentum.
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Atalanta hosting: keen to exploit Milan’s vulnerabilities, especially after seeing cracks.
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Tactical battle: will Milan keep it compact, disciplined and efficient? Or will Atalanta’s energy and structure drag Milan into trouble?
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If Milan get ahead, the clearer challenge will be managing the game, staying composed and not letting it slip.
Why This Match Matters
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Milan are in the title mix and need consistent performances, especially on the road.
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A draw like the one against Pisa (bottom club) can dent confidence and invite criticism — a strong response is vital.
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Atalanta is not a “soft” opponent; their home form and style mean Milan must be at their best.
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For Allegri, this is a test: can his team maintain the tactical discipline, mental focus and game management needed for a title challenge?
Overall, Milan go into this Tuesday evening’s fixture with plenty to correct and plenty to prove.
The draw vs Pisa was a reminder of unfinished business; the trip to Atalanta offers both risk and opportunity.
If they execute their plan, stay compact and sharp, they can get a result — but slip-ups, especially given the earlier signs, could be punished.