Venezia vs. AC Milan

Tactical BreakdownThe Serie A showdown between Venezia and AC Milan on April 27, 2025, is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams fighting for crucial points. Venezia aims to escape the relegation zone, while Milan seeks to bolster their European qualification hopes. Here’s everything you need to know about this match, including official lineups, tactical insights, and predictions.  

Match Overview

Kick-off Time: 12:30 PM CEST (11:30 AM UK time)  

Venue: Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo, Venice  

Referee: Gianluca Manganiello (assisted by Berti and Bahri) .  


Milan enters this game fresh off a 3-0 Coppa Italia semi-final victory over Inter Milan, a result that has injected confidence into Sergio Conceição’s squad . However, their league form has been inconsistent, with the Rossoneri sitting ninth in Serie A. Venezia, meanwhile, is fighting to survive relegation, sitting just one point below safety. Their recent defensive resilience—only one loss in eight matches—makes them a tricky opponent .  

Official Lineups

Venezia (3-5-2):  

- Starting XI: Radu (GK); Schingtienne, Idzes, Candè; Zerbin, Busio, Nicolussi Caviglia, Conde, Haps; Fila, Yeboah .  

- Key Players: Midfielder Gianluca Busio and striker Daniel Fila, returning from suspension, will be critical in breaking down Milan’s defense.  


AC Milan (3-4-3):  

- Starting XI: Maignan (GK); Tomori, Gabbia, Pavlović; Jiménez, Fofana, Reijnders, Hernández; Pulisic, Jović, Leão .  

- Key Players: Christian Pulisic (who scored in the 5th minute) and Rafael Leão will lead Milan’s attack, while Theo Hernández adds width from midfield .  


Substitutes:  

- Venezia: Gytkjær, Oristanio, and Stanković (returning from injury) offer depth .  

- Milan: Kyle Walker is back on the bench after recovering from an elbow injury, while Tammy Abraham and Malick Thiaw await their chance .

Tactical Breakdown

Venezia’s Defensive Strategy:  

Eusebio Di Francesco’s side has adopted a compact 3-5-2 formation, focusing on set-piece efficiency (59% of their goals this season) and minimizing open-play risks . Their recent draws against top teams like Lazio and Napoli highlight their ability to frustrate opponents.  


Milan’s Attacking Flair:  

Conceição has stuck with a 3-4-3 system that worked against Inter, relying on Pulisic and Leão’s pace to exploit Venezia’s wingbacks. Midfielders Yacine Adli and Tijjani Reijnders will aim to control possession, while Luka Jović’s physical presence up front could test Venezia’s center-backs .  

Pre-Match Context

1. Milan’s European Ambitions:  

   Despite their mid-table league position, Milan’s Coppa Italia final berth offers a Europa League pathway. A win here keeps their hopes alive for a top-seven finish .  


2. Venezia’s Survival Battle:  

   With safety just one point away, Venezia’s recent form (5 points from their last three games) has boosted morale. A victory could lift them out of the relegation zone .  


3. Injury Updates:  

   - Milan: Emerson Royal remains sidelined, but Matteo Gabbia has recovered from neck discomfort to start .  

   - Venezia: Long-term absentees Michael Svoboda and Richie Sagrado are unavailable .  

Key Stats

Head-to-Head: Milan is unbeaten in 13 of their last 14 Serie A meetings with Venezia, including four consecutive wins .  

- Set-Piece Threat: Venezia leads Serie A in goals from set pieces (16/27), while Milan’s Theo Hernández has scored four goals against them—more than any other club .  

- Form Guide:  

  - Venezia: 🟡⚪⚪⚪⚪ (1W, 5D, 1L in last 7)  

  - Milan: ⚪🔴⚪🔴⚪ (2W, 1D, 2L in last 5)  

Where to Watch

Italy: DAZN (live coverage starts at 11:45 AM CEST on Milan TV) .  

- USA: Paramount+ (streaming) .  

- Global: Check local listings on AC Milan’s official platforms .  

Prediction

Venezia’s defensive discipline could make this a tight contest, but Milan’s attacking quality—led by Pulisic and Leão—might prove decisive. Expect a 2-1 win for AC Milan, with Venezia pushing hard in the second half.  


Key Factor: If Milan converts early chances, they could dominate. However, Venezia’s set-piece prowess might level the game if the Rossoneri lose focus .  

Final Thoughts

This match is more than just three points—it’s about momentum. For Venezia, survival is within reach; for Milan, it’s a step toward salvaging their season. Tune in for a clash of contrasting styles, where tactics and determination will collide.