Cagliari's season has been inconsistent, with a record of 4 wins, 6 draws, and 7 losses in the first 17 rounds, accumulating 18 points, just 6 points above the relegation zone, placing them under constant pressure to avoid the drop. Their recent form has shown a slight improvement, including a 2-1 away victory against Torino in their last match, extending their unbeaten run to two games. They've scored in six consecutive matches, averaging 1.6 goals per game, showcasing a dynamic attack. AC Milan has demonstrated strong competitiveness this season, with 9 wins, 5 draws, and only 1 loss in 16 matches. They are on a five-match unbeaten streak, with 4 wins and 1 draw. Their recent performance includes a 3-0 home victory over Verona, concluding 2024 perfectly, displaying dominance in both attack and defense. AC Milan is currently second in the league standings with 31 points, just 1 point behind the leader, meaning a win in this match could allow them to reduce the point gap and firmly seize the initiative in the title race. Cagliari hasn't won against AC Milan at home since May 2017, with a record of 4 draws and 11 losses in 15 official matches over the past nine years, highlighting a significant psychological disadvantage. In their last five encounters, they have drawn three times. Last season, both matches ended in goalless draws. However, AC Milan has won by a margin of 2 or more goals in three of their last five away matches against Cagliari, indicating a considerable disparity in strength. Adding to the challenge, AC Milan's current manager boasts a superior record against Cagliari, with 16 wins, 3 draws, and only 1 loss in 20 matches, positioning him as a 'nemesis.' This long-term disadvantage could cause psychological instability for Cagliari's players during critical moments. Conversely, AC Milan will approach the match with confidence. The mental advantage will be a significant factor in this match. Match Prediction: Cagliari +1