The lineup discussion for the 1/8 final first leg between Milan and Tottenham has been sharpened, with both sides presenting plans clearly suited to the high-stakes matchup. The Rossoneri are set to begin with a specific XI that reflects a blend of defensive stability and creative tempo in attack. In goal, Ciprian Teterushanu will anchor the back line, supported by Malik Tshau and Pierre Kalulu on the flanks, with Simon Kier and Theo Hernandez forming the central defensive shield. The midfield will feature Alexis Salemakers and Rade Krunic ahead of Sandro Tonali, whose role as a metronome will be crucial to controlling the tempo. Up front, Braim Diaz will look to link play with Olivier Giroud, while Rafael Leao provides pace and directness on the left flank. The arrangement aims to balance protection for the back four with opportunities to stretch Tottenham’s shape and create scoring chances in transition.
On the bench, Milan will rely on a mix of veteran presence and fresh legs, with Mirante and Nava available for goalkeeping cover behind a defensive core that includes Calabria, Ballo, and Gabbia. Rebic, Origi, Messias, and Escape offer attacking depth and variety should tactical shifts be required during the tie, while De Ketelare provides additional midfield options for the coaching staff to consider as the match unfolds.
Tottenham’s roster mirrors a balanced approach designed to press high and exploit spaces behind Milan’s back line. The starting XI features Fraser Forster in goal, with a back four built by Emerson, Eric Dyer, Clément Lenglet, and Oliver Skipp offering experience and composure at crucial moments. Midfield reinforcement comes from Pape Sarr, paired with Dejan Kuluszewski, to provide creative outlets and running power. Up front, Ivan Perisic channels width and experience, while Heung Min Son and Harry Kane form the attacking spearhead to threaten Milan’s defense with cutting runs and clinical finishing.
The substitutes for Tottenham cover a spectrum of tactical options, ready to alter pace, pressing intensity, or attacking angles depending on how the match develops. The list includes Austin, Whiteman, Sanchez, Richarlison, Danjuma, Pedro Porro, Tanganga, Moura, Davis, and Devine, each capable of contributing in different phases of the game. This depth gives the coaching staff flexibility to respond to Milan’s lineup and to adapt to the flow of play as the contest progresses.
The match will take place at the iconic San Siro, a venue steeped in European football history that often provides a formidable atmosphere for visiting sides. The man in the middle is Swiss referee Sandro Scherer, whose officiating will help set the tone for a tightly contested first leg. Fans in attendance and those watching from afar can expect a tense opening 45 minutes as both teams test boundaries and aim to establish control. The kickoff is scheduled for 23:00 Moscow time, a timing detail that can influence viewing habits across different time zones in Canada, the United States, and beyond.
A noteworthy development from recent reporting touches on Chelsea’s stance with Dynamo regarding the potential transfer of Arsen Zakharyan. Chelsea are no longer in contact with Dynamo on this matter, a move that narrows the field of potential destinations for the young talent and shifts attention to remaining options that could emerge as the transfer window progresses. This update sits within a broader context of ongoing transfer activity across European clubs, where strategic acquisitions and market movements continue to shape squad dynamics ahead of the most consequential fixtures on the calendar.