The iconic San Siro Stadium takes center stage tomorrow, Sunday, April 26, 2026, as AC Milan host Juventus in a key battle for the runners up spot in Serie A. This match is more than just a historic rivalry. It is a direct contest between two top teams fighting for Champions League positioning and domestic pride as the season approaches its final stage.
AC Milan are currently third with 66 points and will look to keep their momentum after a hard fought 1- 0 win over Hellas Verona. Juventus sit just behind in fourth place with 63 points and come into this match in strong form, having won their last 3 games, including a convincing 2 – 0 victory over Bologna. They will be aiming to move ahead of Milan with another important result.
The highlights of the Juventus previous clash with Bologna have also been posted on the club’s YouTube channel, allowing fans to revisit the key moments from the dominant display.
Team News
Despite these injury issues, the mood in Turin remains positive. Juventus recently extended Luciano Spalletti’s contract until 2028 after his strong impact on the team since taking charge in October.
The club has also taken steps to secure its future. Captain Manuel Locatelli has signed a new long term deal that will keep him at Juventus until twenty thirty. In addition, Juventus have completed the transfer of Loïs Openda, who is expected to strengthen their attack in the coming seasons.
Key Players and Absences
AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri is expected to have most of his squad available. However, Pervis Estupiñán is suspended and Ardon Jashari is injured. There is good news for Milan as Rafael Leão has returned to full fitness. Christian Pulisic will also be hoping to end his long goal drought, as he has not scored in his last fifteen league matches.
Juventus have more concerns. Arkadiusz Milik and Juan Cabal are both out with injuries. Dušan Vlahović is also a major doubt due to a calf problem, which could affect their attacking strength.
Head to Head Record and Stats
Juventus have the better record between the two teams, with thirty three wins from seventy five meetings, while AC Milan have won eighteen times.
Recent matches between the sides have been tight and cautious. Three of the last four Serie A meetings have ended in goalless draws. Juventus have been very strong in defence, conceding only one goal in their last six matches. Milan have also been solid at the back, keeping seventeen clean sheets in forty two matches across all competitions this season.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Predicted Starting Lineups
| Position | AC Milan (3-5-2) | Juventus (3-4-3) |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Mike Maignan | Michele Di Gregorio |
| Defenders | Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, Strahinja Pavlović | Pierre Kalulu, Gleison Bremer, Lloyd Kelly |
| Midfielders | Alexis Saelemaekers, Youssouf Fofana, Luka Modrić, Adrien Rabiot, Davide Bartesaghi | Weston McKennie, Manuel Locatelli, Khéphren Thuram, Andrea Cambiaso |
| Forwards | Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leão | Francisco Conceição, Jonathan David, Kenan Yıldız |
Softfootball understands that once the match begins, attention will move away from contract news and focus on a tactical battle. Milan will rely on strong defensive organisation under Allegri, while Juventus will look to use Spalletti’s ambitious style of play to control the game.
With only three points between the two teams, this match is very important. A win for AC Milan would help them stay strong in the top three. A victory for Juventus would bring them level on points and make the race for Champions League places even more intense with five matches left to play
