AC Milan came into this season with high hopes of challenging for a Champions League place again, but they might have gotten a bit of a reality check in their opener. They were thoroughly outplayed away to Fiorentina last week, and Rodrigo Ely helped the Viola by picking up a red card. The Rossoneri will expect to produce a much better result at home against Empoli in Week 2.
A.C. Milan vs. Empoli 2015 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch Serie A online
The Rossoneri will expect to grab their first win of the season in Week 2.
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Empoli lost Daniele Rugani -- arguably their best player -- this summer as his previous co-owners and now full owners Juventus decided to add him to their first team squad. Without their superstar center back, Empoli conceded three times at home in the first round against Chievo, one of Serie A’s most defensive sides. They’ll hope that was just an unlucky blip on the radar, though -- the Flying Donkeys scored with all three of their shots on target.
Milan added a couple of new players this week, signing midfielder Juraj Kucka and forward Mario Balotelli, who they’re preventing from having fun haircuts or wearing stylish clothing. Surprisingly, Super Mario agreed to the terms and should be wearing the famous black-and-red shirt again shortly.
Key Player -- Keisuke Honda
Though it wasn’t all his fault, Honda will bear some of the blame for Milan producing no shots on target against Fiorentina. He’ll need to create better chances for his strikers in this game.
Will Mario Balotelli play a role?
Perhaps from the bench. Expect Honda, Carlos Bacca and Luiz Adriano to occupy the three most forward spots again, but don’t be surprised if Balotelli gets into the 18 and makes a late cameo.
AC Milan injuries and suspensions
Out: Rodrigo Ely (suspended), Jeremy Menez (back), Mbaye Niang (toe). In doubt: Philippe Mexes (knee).
Empoli injuries and suspensions
Out: None. In doubt: Massimo Maccarone (fitness), Mario Rui (ankle), Vincent Laurini (knock), Marco Zambelli (knock).
Match date/time: Saturday, 2:45 p.m. ET, 8:30 p.m. local
Venue: San Siro, Milan, Italy
TV: RAI (U.S. and Canada - Italian), BT Sport Europe (U.K.), Sky Sport 1 (Italy)
Online: beIN Sports Connect (U.S. and Canada), Fubo, Sling (U.S.), BT Sport (U.K.), Sky Go (Italy)
Delay: beIN Sports (U.S. and Canada - English)
Listings for other countries at LiveSoccerTV.
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