AC MILAN v FIORENTINA: THE BRIEFING

The possible pitfalls after the international break, the desire to return to winning ways, and the determination to do so on home turf. AC Milan v Fiorentina is worth three points in the table but also so much more. A clash that has all the ingredients to be a thrilling spectacle for the Rossoneri faithful. At San Siro, Italiano's Viola await Coach Pioli's men on matchday 13 in Serie A. Ahead of the highly anticipated showdown, we take a look at three aspects that could prove decisive.

SIMILARITIES AND INDIVIDUALS
Pioli's Rossoneri and Italiano's Viola have quite a few things in common. A four-man backline, a dynamic midfield - three players operating in the middle as a trio, or a duo and an attacking midfielder - and plenty of drive down the wings. Many AC Milan and Fiorentina players are capable of scoring, and the two teams embrace one-on-ones, try to dictate the tempo and look to control matches by making the most of possession (57.1% and 56.9%) and quick balls forward. In a match that pits together two intense teams with many similarities, what could tip the balance? It seems likely that the work done on an individual level will be key. Those out on the pitch will be looking to win personal duels all over the pitch to inspire their side to victory. From Maignan (he's already been decisive against the Viola in the past) and Terracciano in goal to Jović and Bonaventura (both up against their former teams) in attack, the players who show the most strength and quality will help make the difference.

APPROACH AND DEAD BALL SITUATIONS
AC Milan and Fiorentina haven't drawn any of their last six meetings, which have been won by the side that scored first. Looking at recent history, then, the Rossoneri will need to get their approach spot-on, especially given that the Viola have scored five times in the opening quarter of an hour so far this season. The Diavolo have netted most of their goals in the middle portion of the game either side of half-time (eleven) but, just like Fiorentina, have, in general, also conceded a fair few. With all this in mind, set-pieces could prove key. The Viola have excelled in terms of goals from headers (6) and indirect free-kicks (2), situations AC Milan have struggled with in recent outings. Against PSG and Lecce, the Rossoneri were caught out by corners, and Pioli's men will need to make sure they're switched on to prevent Fiorentina striking through one of their biggest strengths.

LOFTUS-CHEEK AND JACK BONAVENTURA
Two players who have made significant contributions so far this campaign. On the one hand, we have Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who is ready to return after missing out against Lecce and was a key figure in the Rossoneri's Champions League victory over PSG. On the other hand, there's Jack Bonaventura, whose performances this term have led to him being called up to the Italy squad. Both move intelligently between midfield and the final third, with the AC Milan man more of a physical and disruptive presence compared to the Viola player, who is very astute tactically. They'll look to give balance to their respective teams and provide support in attack with their runs forward. In general, they're expected to contribute with goals and assists, but they've also shown how important they can be in the build-up and in terms of breaking up play. Given their running abilities, it's a duel that will take place all over the pitch. A match within a match, and one which could be decided by the player who displays the most leadership.

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