RC8
Established Member
And the time has finally come to open the official AC Milan match thread. We still have to play United in the FA Cup, but this match thread had to be started well in advance, as it could prove historic, just like the Real Madrid one was.
Most people will remember the last time we played a team from Milan in a competitive tournament (no, the Emirates Cup doesn't count!). It was in the Champions League of 2003/2004, and it was arguably one of the greatest days in the history of our club. We had to win by 3 clear goals at the San Siro against Inter, and things were looking tough, even at half time. An out of this world 2nd time performance saw us score some trademark Arsenal goals, which settled the score at 1-5 to the Arsenal after the final whistle.
Unfortunately, past glories aren't worth a thing in this tie, and we need to make sure that the first great European night at Ashburton Grove, also known as Arsenal Stadium if the UEFA rules are worth anything. For one night, it will be again a true football ground, and for one night, us fans have to ensure that the team's 12th man is well heard.
We can all look back to our triumphs against Villarreal and Real Madrid as the last great European nights in Highbury, and hopefully this one will be our first great victory at home since moving grounds.
The latest updates from UEFA are the following:
UEFA.com said:
It is refreshing, at least, that we will have to play one of the world's giants this time around. After the disastrous results against PSV, it's fair to say that we were all left wanting for more in the Champions League. That night was the last time we saw Thierry Henry "playing", or at least trying to play for the Arsenal in the Champions League. He was brought on to save the day, but couldn't make a mark, and we were knocked out by the better team.
It's time to forget that horrible afternoon, and focus in the great group of youngsters that lead the Premiership table. The hunger for glory should inspire them to kill the old Italian Dinosaur. It is time for our lads to stand up and be counted, and show the world that we can better the effort ManUtd put last year in the semi-finals.
On a final note, I'm going to be optimistic with the team I'm putting out. It is important to remember, however, that if the last few years are anything to go by, we could in all likeliness play a 4-5-1 formation.
