Rennes vs AC Milan
UEFA Europa League
Round of 32
Thursday
22nd February 2024
Stade de la Route-de-Lorient
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the UEFA Europa League fixture between Rennes and AC Milan.
Rennes vs AC Milan: Preview
Rennes form analysis
Stade Rennais’ European show the likes of an entertaining, attack-minded team but one prone to defensive lapses. After beating Panathinaikos home and away, Rennes produced an excellent 3-0 win away at Maccabi Haifa as Terrier, Gouiri and Rieder impressed in attack. However, defensive issues were apparent as they blew a 2-1 lead to lose 3-2 at home to Villarreal, exposed on the counterattack late on. Most recently, those frailties were harshly exposed again in a 3-0 defeat away at AC Milan, with Loftus-Cheek scoring twice in the first half to put the game beyond Rennes.
All in all, while Rennes carry plenty of threat going forward, manager Julien Stéphan will be concerned by his team’s struggles to keep clean sheets and protect leads. Greater defensive organisation and maturity to manage games better are required. If Rennes can add steel to support their entertaining attack, they can still progress in Europe. But shoring up their backline vulnerabilities is crucial if they are to fulfill attacking potential on the continent in the coming weeks.
AC Milan form analysis
AC Milan’s European form indicates a strong team capable of competing with elite opponents but with some defensive inconsistencies. After a 3-0 loss away to PSG in their Champions League opener, Milan responded well by coming from behind to beat the French side 2-1 at home, displaying resilience as Giroud scored the winner. However a 3-1 defeat away to Dortmund exposed frailties in defence, shipping three second half goals. Their inconsistency continued as they beat Newcastle 2-1 despite conceding first, progressing from the Champions League group stage. Milan’s move to the Europa League brought a return to winning ways with an accomplished 3-0 victory away at Rennes in their round of 32 first leg. Goals from Loftus-Cheek and Rafael Leão capped an excellent attacking display.
On the whole manager Stefano Pioli will know Milan can trouble Europe’s best on their day but they must eliminate erratic defensive performances if they are to make a sustained continental impact. Adding solidity and discipline to their evident attacking prowess is crucial. If they achieve that balance, Milan could go deep in the Europa League knockouts.
