Alcione Milano come into this one with a spring in their step after a solid Coppa Italia Lega Pro outing against Novara on 16 August. That match, a competitive cup tie, will have sharpened their edges for the league opener. They are a side that knows how to grind, especially at home, where the narrow pitch and the backing of their own fans make them a stubborn nut to crack. Renate, meanwhile, are the classic Serie C road warriors — organised, compact, and happy to let the opposition have the ball. But they often struggle to turn that resilience into wins away from home. Recent form suggests both teams are still finding their rhythm this early in the season, but Alcione’s cup involvement gives them a slight edge in match sharpness. They have already faced real opposition, while Renate may still be shaking off the rust of pre-season.