La Gazzetta dello Sport wrote about AC Milan's situation in the European competition. The Rossoneri surely need a win no matter the cost tonight at the St. James' Park. But, to advance in the Champions League, they will also wait for a win from Borussia Dortmund against Paris Saint-Germain.
Stefano Pioli's team, however, will focus on what they can control. The first leg, for instance. Milan proved stronger, bombarding Tonali's team with 25 attempts. None found the net, yet somewhere, in the Rossoneri's mind, that sensation of superiority remained, which can help during a period of fragile self-esteem.
The biggest chance was wasted by Leao at the end with that disastrous back-heel that, remembering it today, still hurts even more. But Milan, just wounded by another back-heel (Atalanta's Muriel), finds its totem after a month.
This is the second reason for hope. Actually, the first. Everything depends on Leao and Giroud. Newcastle is falling apart, full of injuries, and in the last two games, they've conceded 7 goals. Milan must be Milan. Starting from defensive strength.
READ MORE | AC Milan absolutely need a victory at all costs vs Newcastle | Pioli’s job could be under scrutiny in case of a loss
