AC Milan vs Newcastle Predictions

• AC Milan conceded in eight of their 12 European games last term
• Newcastle have scored in four of their first five matches this season
• Giroud has scored four goals in four games for the Rossoneri

Newcastle return to big stage

It’s hard to think of a better stage for Newcastle to play their first Champions League fixture in 20 years than San Siro. While St James’ Park will be rocking in a couple of weeks for their first European home game in years, heading to Milan on Tuesday will surely be a special occasion for Eddie Howe’s side.

Of course, the visitors are heading to Milan aiming to compete even in an incredibly tricky group. The Magpies’ have been priced up as second-favourites to get out of a group which also contains PSG and Borussia Dortmund. However, placing Howe’s side among the favourites in this pool may be a bit premature, as this Milan side boasts great European pedigree.

Experience edge for Milan

The hosts returned to the semi-finals of the Champions League last term and their record through the early stages of the competition is fantastic. They have only been eliminated from the first-round group stage in one of their last 14 Champions League campaigns, so they can’t be counted out in this group.

The Rossoneri have a more experienced group of players, led by Olivier Giroud. The French forward has scored in three of his last four games for Milan, hitting four goals in that stretch.

The striker scored five times in seven games for Milan in their run to the last four of the Champions League, with four of those coming across six group stage appearances. Back him to continue his good form against a Newcastle side who have been torn apart by Evan Ferguson and Darwin Nunez already this term.

Magpies to make an impact

While Newcastle do need to fear the hosts, Milan have struggled defensively so far this term. The Rossoneri were just beaten 5-1 by Inter Milan at the weekend, which was the third straight game in which they’ve failed to keep a clean sheet.

The Rossoneri conceded in eight of their 12 games in this competition last term. They’re also going up against a Newcastle side who have scored in four of their first five games, only being shut out by Manchester City.

This should be an open game considering that both sides have struggled for clean sheets this term, with the pair both conceding in all bar one of their matches so far. While Giroud is in good form for the hosts, Newcastle have impressive attacking talent in Alexander Isak, Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron. Given that, back both teams to score in this clash.