After Winning Midweek, Pulisic and Musah Play Busio and Venezia This Weekend
Sunday's Serie A clash between AC Milan and relegation-threatened Venezia will feature a significant American presence with USMNT stars Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah representing the Rossoneri against compatriot Gianluca Busio.
Pulisic continues his impressive campaign for Milan, having tallied 15 goals and 11 assists across all competitions. Despite no direct goal involvements in Milan's recent 3-0 Coppa Italia semifinal victory over Inter, head coach Sérgio Conceição praised the American's selfless performance: "He sacrificed himself for the team. He ran a lot, he gave a lot to the team." The coach acknowledged Pulisic lacked "a bit of freshness with the ball" but emphasized his "great confidence" in the American winger.
Pulisic's national teammate, Musah, will hope for minutes after remaining on the bench during the midweek cup triumph. Both Americans have already tasted success in Italy this season, winning the Supercoppa Italiana in January, and now have another opportunity for silverware with Milan advancing to the Coppa Italia Final against Bologna on May 14.
Conversely, Busio has been a bright spot for struggling Venezia. The 22-year-old midfielder scored his second goal of the season last weekend, giving Venezia a temporary 2-1 lead in their eventual 2-2 draw with fellow relegation candidates Empoli. Busio has been a consistent presence for Venezia this season, making 29 league appearances. His continued high-level performances will be crucial as the club fights to maintain top-flight status with just five matches remaining.
Venezia head coach Eusebio Di Francesco acknowledged the challenge ahead, particularly against a Milan team coming off an emotional derby victory. "We must rely on ourselves, on our attitude and determination, knowing that we will face a big team," Di Francesco said at his pre-match press conference. "On an attacking level, they are the most dangerous team, according to the data."
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