International Champions Cup Prediction: AC Milan vs. Manchester City

Match Date: 28 July 2014 (local time)

Venue: Heinz Field

Coming from a massive victory against Sporting KC, Manchester City enters the exhibition match with an air of confidence. They will be facing a disappointed AC Milan, which suffered a 3-0 thrashing from the Greek side, Olympiacos.

The contenders

Manchester City

As discussed, Manchester City overflows with confidence after securing another trophy from their match over Sporting KC. Such scenario will definitely work to their advantage as this will help them prepare for the encounter pitted against another equally aggressive club, AC Milan.

There is doubt if Alvaro Negredo can participate in the exhibition match. Negredo is still recovering from a broken foot and it is less likely for the club to take a risk on his current condition.

Nevertheless, despite this absence, City has faith in its roster of stellar players.

AC Milan

AC Milan just experienced a severe thrashing from Olympiacos. Goals from Alejandro Dominguez, Dimitrios Diamantakos and Andreas Bouchalakis kept the Rossoneris at bay and at risk of missing the final leg of the celebrated friendly.

But more than anything else, the result may also serve as a preview of Milan’s performance in the Serie A and apparently, the preview was not a good one.

The Rossoneris struggled during the 2013/2014 season. Their inconsistent performance did not only witness them fall in the table, but also lose their spot in the Champions League.

The star men

Manchester City’s top scorer, Yaya Toure shall be gracing the competition and so is the renowned goalkeeper, Joe Hart. They will readily put up a challenge against Keisuke Honda and Stephan El Shaarawy. Shaarawy spent most of his presence on the sideline last season due to injury. Seeing him perform on the pitch again is a great way to enjoy the exhibition match.

What the odds say

Online bookies such as 12BET are betting on Manchester City as clear favorite of the said match. The squad is valued at 1.82, with Asian handicap of 0.5.

Image Source: ESPN FC