AC Milan clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Girona in a tense Champions League encounter, securing their fifth consecutive European win under new coach Sergio Conceicao.
The match was marked by early drama, with Emerson Royal limping off just four minutes into the game after sustaining an injury, forcing Davide Calabria into action. Milan dominated possession and created numerous chances before breaking through in the 37th minute.
Rafael Leao provided the decisive moment, scoring a spectacular goal after being set up by Ismael Bennacer. The Portuguese winger skillfully maneuvered past David Lopez and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot into the roof of the net, giving Milan the crucial lead.
Girona had a potential equalizer ruled out in the first half when Bryan Gil’s stunning left-foot curler was disallowed for an extremely tight offside call. Mike Maignan was also instrumental in preserving Milan’s lead, making several crucial saves throughout the match.
The victory maintains Milan’s strong momentum in the Champions League, lifting them to 12 points in the group stage and solidifying their position for knockout phase qualification.
Goals: Leao 37 (M)
Milan (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Emerson Royal (dal 4′ Calabria), Gabbia, Pavlovic, Theo Hernandez; Fofana, Bennacer (dal 75′ Terracciano); Musah, Reijnders (dal 75′ Pulisic), Leao; Morata (dal 64′ Abraham)
Girona (4-3-2-1): Gazzaniga; Francés, David Lopez, Krejcì, Blind; Van de Beek (dal 72′ Asprilla), Romeu, Herrera (dal 77′ Portu); Tsygankov (dal 72′ Martin), Bryan Gil (dal 72′ Danjuma); Abel Ruiz (dal 72′ Stuani).
