AC MILAN v CREMONESE: KEYS TO THE MATCH

The fixtures keep on coming and the Rossoneri are preparing to host Ballardini's Grigiorossi in the midweek round of fixtures in Serie A matchday 33. At San Siro, vital points are up for grabs as sides look to finish the season on a high. With our briefing, we try to break down the possible turning points of AC Milan v Cremonese:

ONE ON ONES
Between Brahim's dribbling in between the lines and the speed of Leão and Saelemaekers down the wings, some individual brilliance may be needed to break down Cremonese, who are likely to set up as they did in the reverse fixture, with a compact defensive unit. Bodies in middle, constant double-teaming against individuals and aggression, this is how Cremonese earned a 0-0 draw at the Zini. In order to break down the Grigiorossi's defence, in addition to the attackers, it will be important that the full backs get up the pitch in support of their wingers in order to try to create an overload out wide. From Messias to De Ketelaere and Origi, the impact off the bench will also be important, as they will look to stretch some tired legs with their energy. A dribble, some speed or a good pass: just a few minutes on the pitch is long enough to make an impact.

SHOOTING FROM DISTANCE
A solution used with very little this season, compared to last season, by the Rossoneri. But it is a technique that has at times proved decisive in breaking down teams in matches that have been similar to the one we will see at San Siro. Shooting from distance is a solution that may be required against a stubborn defence. Prime examples of this are Kalulu's goal, the winner against Empoli last season, and Theo Hernández's missile against Atalanta - both at San Siro. More recently, Pobega's fantastic left-footed strike from outside the box - away to Bologna - also drew us level in a tricky fixture, while Divock Origi - against Monza and Sassuolo - has shown his ability from range. Against a predominantly defensive set-up that will be worried about their box, efforts from distance, as well as free kicks, might play a big part in the outcome of this fixture. Courage, character, flexibility and being clinical will all be required if AC Milan are to claim all three points.

DIRECT FOOTBALL
Patience while dribbling is important, but direct football could also be decisive. It is really important to score early in matches like the one against Cremonese, otherwise the minutes run on the clock and pressure increases. It is important not to repeat the mistakes of the first leg, when the Rossoneri gave the impression of attacking without the right ferocity, aware of their own qualities and masters of possession, but inefficient in creating meaningful chances. The Rossoneri must remain wary of the counter-attacks of Cremonese, who will try to get past Maignan through fast breaks. AC Milan, therefore, will manage rhythm and control of the ball, but they will have to be smart and get past the Grigiorossa defence with fast, accurate football. The Rossoneri will undoubtedly have to take some risks at one point.

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