Milan vs Red Star: Can Rafael Leao Deliver Against His Old Foes?

AC Milan is set to face Red Star in the highly anticipated Champions League matchup, with the Rossoneri seeking a spot in the top eight. The Italian outfit has a mixed record in the tournament, boasting two wins, four draws, and six losses in 12 games, but Red Star's struggles on Italian soil may prove advantageous.

Milan has not lost to Red Star in their six previous European matches, with two wins and four draws, a record that could serve as a motivator for coach Paulo Fonseca's side. Red Star, on the other hand, has found it challenging to secure victories in Italy, winning only one of their 14 matches, with four draws and nine losses. The red and whites have managed to muster five goals from substitutes compared to four from starting players, showcasing their depth but raising questions about their consistency.

The spotlight shines on Rafael Leão, AC Milan's star Portuguese forward, who has been touted as the "cover man" expected to lead the team in Christian Pulisic's absence. With four goals in 25 Champions League games, Leão's statistics fall short of elite standards, and his drought since November 2023 against PSG has sparked concerns. A goal against Red Star would not only boost his individual tally but also contribute significantly to the team's success, especially with Yunus Musah and Ruben Loftus-Cheek joining him in the attack. As the fans and coach depend on him to elevate his game, Leão still has the opportunity to make a significant impact on this 125th anniversary for the team.

The matchup presents an intriguing challenge for Leão, particularly due to Red Star's stingy defense, which has stifled several opponents in the past. However, Leão's team has seen some hope in recent European matches, including their current three-match winning streak, during which they scored exactly three goals each time – a feat they last achieved in 1989. To reach new heights, Leão will have to not only rise to his own occasion but also harness his ability to create chances and find the target, potentially inscribing his name into the Champion League record books.

As the match unfolds, Rafael Leão will have an opportunity to shine, not only for his team but also in individual recognition. His ability to score will decide the course of the match, proving whether his juncture of chance will become Magica Momentales against Red Star, thereby justifying his real status as one who contributes significantly to AC Milan's resurgence come Champions League season.