AC Milan vs Benfica - UEFA Europa League

The history between AC Milan and Benfica lends this UEFA Europa League fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on September 16, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. Enzo Maresca verdict on Michael Carrick and Manchester United fixture issue - 'you need to adapt'.

In the UEFA Europa League table, AC Milan currently occupy 23rd and Benfica sit 4th, and the context adds genuine weight to what is already an intriguing fixture. AC Milan are mired in a difficult campaign, D over their last five and a paltry win rate of 0% painting a bleak picture. Benfica are in the midst of a slump, WWDWW over their last five and a paltry win rate of 0% summing up their struggles. Where AC Milan have leaned on defensive discipline, Benfica have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. Paulo Fonseca's men are still smarting from their Champions League play-off exit but now sit third in the table.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. AC Milan favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Benfica are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. What Bryson DeChambeau claimed about LIV Golf’s future back in 2022 In 2022, DeChambeau took part in his first ever press conference after joining LIV Golf.

All eyes will be on the league's leading marksman V. Pavlidis, whose 5 goals this season make him the standout threat and a player capable of deciding the outcome on his own. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Manchester City midfielder Rodri is wanted by Barcelona After scoring against Atletico Madrid last weekend, Marmoush's future was put under the microscope by his manager Maresca.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. The numbers tilt towards Benfica, and a 1-2 away win looks the more probable outcome. With positions in the UEFA Europa League table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Important qualities given that Bournemouth will expect him to be proactive.