Venezia Vs. Milan: Assessing The Rossoneri's New Tactics

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Post on Apr 27, 2025

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Venezia vs. Milan: Assessing the Rossoneri's New Tactical Approach

AC Milan's trip to Venezia wasn't just another Serie A fixture; it served as a fascinating case study in the evolution of Stefano Pioli's tactical approach. While the 2-1 victory secured three crucial points, the match highlighted both the successes and the areas requiring refinement in the Rossoneri's new game plan. This analysis delves into the key tactical shifts observed in Milan's performance, examining their effectiveness and potential long-term implications.

A Shift Away from the Traditional 4-2-3-1?

For much of last season, Milan thrived with their familiar 4-2-3-1 formation. However, against Venezia, Pioli experimented with a more fluid system, often resembling a 4-3-3 or even a 3-4-3 depending on the phase of play. This adaptability, a hallmark of top teams, allowed Milan to control possession effectively and exploit Venezia's defensive vulnerabilities. The midfield trio of Tonali, Bennacer, and Kessié provided a robust base, controlling the tempo and dictating the flow of the game.

The Importance of Wide Play

One notable change was the increased emphasis on utilizing the width. With Theo Hernandez and Saelemaekers pushing high and wide, Milan stretched the Venezia defense, creating space for central penetrations. This tactic proved particularly effective in breaking down Venezia's compact defensive block, leading to several key scoring opportunities. The wide players weren't just confined to crosses; their intelligent runs and interplay with the midfielders added another dimension to Milan's attack.

Defensive Solidity: A Continuing Strength

Despite the tactical tweaks, Milan maintained their defensive solidity, a characteristic that has defined their success in recent seasons. The backline, marshalled expertly by Tomori and Kalulu, remained resolute, limiting Venezia's chances significantly. The midfield's work rate also contributed significantly to this defensive strength, effectively shielding the defense and winning back possession in dangerous areas.

Areas for Improvement: Maintaining Consistency

While the victory against Venezia was encouraging, it's crucial to acknowledge areas requiring improvement. At times, the fluidity of the formation seemed to lead to a lack of clear positional responsibility, resulting in moments of defensive vulnerability. Maintaining consistent tactical discipline, particularly during transitions between attacking and defensive phases, will be crucial for Milan's continued success. Furthermore, the clinical finishing, while adequate, could be sharpened to maximize the chances created by the new tactical approach.

Conclusion: A Promising Evolution

The Venezia match offered a glimpse into a potentially exciting new phase in Milan's tactical development. The flexible system, emphasizing wide play and midfield control, holds considerable promise. However, refining the consistency and addressing minor defensive lapses will be key to realizing the full potential of this evolving strategy. As the season progresses, we'll have a clearer picture of whether this new approach represents a permanent shift or a tactical adjustment for specific opponents. The ongoing evolution of AC Milan under Pioli makes them a fascinating team to watch in Serie A and beyond. Their adaptability and commitment to innovation will undoubtedly shape their future success.