UEFA Cup First Round: AC Milan V FC Zurich

Reading such an illustrious name of AC Milan in the UEFA Cup clearly signals a time of underachievement and ‘crisis’, but even as the situation stands it has to be said that the task of pushing aside Zurich is a simple job. The UEFA Cup can act as a relief for Carlo Ancelotti as it temporarily removes the domestic pressures which are currently exposing him. Such is the predicament that anything short of a resounding aggregate scoreline could see the axe fall on Ancelotti’s helm. Defeat to Genoa at the weekend left Milan precariously second-off bottom in Serie A, further fuelling the fire to those calling for his resignation. Forget star names of Kaka, Pato and Ronaldinho, a prominent return to the taste of victory is exactly what Milan requires. Tagged as the UEFA Cup favourites, elimination at this premature stage remains unthinkable and they should still sail past Zurich’s challenge with ease.

Ancelotti has publicly admitted the UEFA Cup will not be the biggest worry on his mind, but has nevertheless the creditted his opponents tomorrow night. "The Uefa Cup does not give us the same motivations, but if we are still in it come March, it could become a very interesting competition. However, now we must think to do well tomorrow's game. A nice win and a good performance could make us breathe a bit, because right now we are not breathing, we're under water. Zurich? They are a lively team, they do not have extraordinary abilities, but have good organization. They play with a classic 4-4-2, with an attacker who moves a lot and a strong one. “On the wings they are a very dynamic team and play with good rhythm. Zurich are at the top of the Swiss league, therefore they are a team used to attacking playing openly.”

Standout Player: Kaka

Providing the opposition over both legs is Swiss outfit FC Zurich. The 2006 and 2007 domestic champions came out victorious in the Second Qualifying Round against Sturm Graz, albeit through penalties and recent league successes could prove to be the catalyst for Zurich. Beating FC Vaduz 7-1 in the Swiss Super League is sure to provide the visitors with undoubted confidence. Despite being firm underdogs in this glamour tie, the possibility of an upset has not yet been discounted and the Swiss now have the playing field and platform to make a statement. An injury blow to Tunisian attacking midfielder Yassine Chikhaoui will be a noticeable absentee in their lineup.

Standout Player: Eric Hassli