Cagliari vs AC Milan, Serie A kicks off 2026

Serie A welcomes 2026 at the Unipol Domus with the clash between Cagliari and AC Milan. The Sardinians are looking to build on their away win against Torino to move further clear of the danger zone and secure a third straight positive result. Meanwhile, Max Allegri’s side, facing his former club, are chasing all three points to move at least temporarily up to first place, ahead of Lazio vs Napoli, and Inter vs Bologna.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

There have been 46 official meetings between the two teams in Sardinia: Cagliari have won 5 (most recently 2–1 in Serie A 2016/17), there have been 19 draws (most recently 3–3 in Serie A 2024/25) and Milan have won 22 (most recently 3–1 in Serie A 2023/24).

DID YOU KNOW?

On 1 February 1976, Cagliari–Milan 1–3 was Gigi Riva’s last match: he suffered the serious injury that halted his career and was replaced by Marchesi in the 53rd minute.

Cagliari have scored in six consecutive matches: it is their longest scoring run of the season, with 10 goals in that spell. Their last match without scoring was on 8 November, a 0–0 draw against Como.

Cagliari are one of six Serie A teams that have not yet received a red card, along with Lecce, Napoli, Torino, Inter and Verona.

Milan are the Serie A 2025/26 side against whom the most penalties have been awarded after 17 matchdays (5), level with Udinese.

COACHES and PLAYERS

Massimiliano Allegri is the "ex" of the day: he managed the Rossoblù from July 2008 to April 2010, taking charge of 74 official matches with a record of 27 wins, 15 draws and 32 defeats.

DISCIPLINE 

Suspended: none

Cautioned: Prati, Esposito (Cagliari)         

REFEREE

ABISSO (ROSSI L. – BARONE) IV: MARCHETTI, VAR: CAMPLONE, AVAR: DI BELLO

UPCOMING MATCHES

Cremonese-Cagliari (Thursday, January 8, 18.30 CET)

Milan-Genoa (Thursday, January 8, 20.45 CET)

(Foto Getty Images)