Como and AC Milan are on a collision course as they prepare for their crucial Serie A clash on January 15, 2026, at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. This match isn't just another entry on the fixture list; it's a top-of-the-table showdown that could reverberate throughout the championship race. Como sits in sixth place with 34 points, while AC Milan occupies second with 39. With both teams hungry for glory, expect nothing less than a ferocious battle where every inch of turf will be fiercely contested.
Predicted Lineups: For Como, expect the reliable GK: Jean Butez, DEF: Alberto Moreno, Marc-Oliver Kempf, Diego Carlos, Ignace Van der Brempt, MID: Lucas Da Cunha, Máximo Perrone, Nico Paz, Mërgim Vojvoda; and up front FWD: Anastasios Douvikas. As for AC Milan: GK: Mike Maignan, DEF: Strahinja Pavlović, Matteo Gabbia, Koni De Winter; MID: Adrien Rabiot, Samuele Ricci, Ruben Loftus-Cheek; and up top FWD: Rafael Leão and Christian Pulišić.
Both teams arrive with contrasting recent forms that will dictate this epic confrontation. Como has been a fortress at home with an impressive record over their last five matches (3 wins, 1 draw). They dismantled Lecce with a commanding 3-0 performance before grinding out results against Udinese and Pisa. In stark contrast is AC Milan's recent form-though still formidable with three wins in their last five fixtures (two draws)-they appear to have hit a speed bump of late. A disappointing Super Cup semi-final exit to Napoli lingers in their memory like a bitter aftertaste.
Let's dive into the statistics that underline this upcoming clash!
Como boasts a commendable ball possession rate averaging around 62% in recent matches-a testament to their ability to dictate tempo and control games from midfield. They also generate more shots (averaging 13 per game) compared to opponents but have occasionally struggled with conversion rates-only converting around one goal per match lately despite opportunities presented (as shown by an xG hovering close to 2). Their attacking trio of Anastasios Douvikas and Lucas Da Cunha paired with maximum creativity from Máximo Perrone has created countless chances but converting them has been another story altogether.
Conversely, AC Milan remains lethal on the counterattack thanks to the explosive talents of Rafael Leão and Christian Pulišić. They've demonstrated sharp clinicality through consistent shot accuracy-averaging over six shots on target per game recently-but displayed vulnerabilities at the back which Como could exploit. The Rossoneri have conceded goals late in matches against Fiorentina and Genoa recently; there's an unsettling trend when defensive solidity begins to wane.
When assessing expected goals (xG), it becomes clear that AC Milan generates high-quality scoring opportunities while having a lower xG average than you'd anticipate for their standing-this hints at potential inefficiencies lurking beneath their promising statistics. Meanwhile, Como may not appear overwhelming statistically but embody grit alongside strong teamwork-a foundation upon which they've built their success this season.
The key tactical battle will revolve around Como's ability to maintain possession against an aggressive Milan side keen on quick transitions. If Como can successfully assert control over the midfield using players like Máximo Perrone-the team's central figure boasting impeccable passing accuracy-it may prove decisive in stifling Milan's forwards from making damaging runs behind their defense.
However! Here's where it gets heated: I predict that both teams will find themselves trading blows early on until the tension causes either side to crack under pressure-likely resulting in goals being traded throughout this high-stakes contest!
Expect star performances from Douvikas for Como; he's netted six goals thus far amidst sporadic starts showcasing his finishing talent when called upon decisively! And don't sleep on Rafael Leão either-a budding superstar capable of turning games on its head in moments of brilliance reminiscent of league legends past.
This brings us to my bold prediction: we're looking at a dynamic 3-2 victory for AC Milan! They'll edge this tense encounter by exploiting set pieces while capitalizing on defensive lapses from Como during high-pressure situations-predominantly via fast breaks led by Pulišić who thrives in breaking down opposition defenses through pace!
In conclusion? The stage is set for an electrifying encounter replete with drama as both sides aim not only for three critical points but also for momentum heading further into what promises to be a fiercely competitive title race. Get ready folks-it'll be nothing short of thrilling soccer action!