Milan hosted Genoa and were looking to gain revenge for the 2-0 defeat they suffered in their second game of the season, a result that has helped Genoa challenge for a top four finish. The Rossoneri were looking for the three points at home, as they attempted to cut their six-point deficit with Inter.

Diego Milito returned for fourth-placed Genoa last week, and prior to this match they had not lost since their defeat to Juventus on November 13. David Beckham has had a decent impact on the team since joining on loan from LA Galaxy. Beckham scored his first goal in a Milan shirt in Sunday's 4-1 win at Bologna and his contribution has helped make Milan a better team, riding high on the confidence gained with good results since the start of the new year, as well as the fact that they were able to hold onto star player Kaka.