Real Betis vs AC Milan Predictions

AC Milan may be on the back of a three game winning run, but clearly all is not right at the club. Arsene Wenger was strongly linked with the job this week despite the Rossoneri forcing their way back into the top four in Serie A. Their main goal is to return to the Champions League next term, and so far Gennaro Gattuso is delivering results. However, he doesn’t have a grasp on what his tactical approach is. That’s led to some trouble, including their last game in Europe.

Real Betis won at San Siro in their last Europa League game, which put them top of the pile. They’ve won two and drawn one in Europe so far, and they’re heading for the knockout round. The hosts aren’t thriving in the league, as they languish down in 14th. However, they can show signs of progress with their run in Europe, and doing the double over a side like Milan could be a great achievement for the Spaniards.

Milan come here with a great run behind them. Their three straight wins have moved them from the bottom half to the top four, which is a remarkable turnaround. The goal this season is to secure a return to the Champions League. While that would put them back among the European elite, it also solves their financial concerns. With huge debts, they need Champions League cash. The Europa League looked like Milan’s best route a couple of months ago, but their recent jump may see them write off their European commitments.

The visitors have injury issues which could lead to changes here. A key absentee for the Italians is Gonzalo Higuain, who they lost in the win over Udinese at the weekend. The forward has been key for the Rossoneri this term, and losing him is a huge blow. He’s one of six absentees for the visitors, who are likely to rotate anyway. That’s not a great sign as they look to improve on a home defeat to Betis.

Betis come into this one with little trouble in terms of goals. They scored three against Celta Vigo on Sunday, while they hammered Dudelange 3-0 in their last home game in Europe. The Spaniards are looking to improve at the back, and we see them shutting down a Milan side who could have switched their focus. We think Betis are well priced given their good form in Europe, while Milan have lost three of their last five in this competition. We’re going with Betis to claim the points as our tip here.