AC Milan staged a thrilling comeback to defeat Como 2-1 after Assane Diao opened the scoring for the home side on his full debut. The match, held at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, showcased an impressive performance from Milan, highlighted by a historic goal from Theo Hernandez and a delicate finish from Rafael Leao.
The Rossoneri entered this fixture following a disappointing draw against Cagliari in Serie A, which came after their Supercoppa Italiana triumph under new coach Sergio Conceição. Despite missing several key players due to injuries and suspensions, including Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Samuel Chukwueze, Milan aimed to secure a vital win.
Como took the lead in the second half when Diao, assisted by Maxence Caqueret, managed to surprise Milan’s goalkeeper Mike Maignan with a low shot at the near post. This goal marked a significant moment for Diao, who was eager to make an impact in his first start.
However, Milan responded quickly. Theo Hernandez equalized in an unusual manner when he capitalized on a defensive error from Como. A corner kick led to a header from Edoardo Goldaniga that fell perfectly for Hernandez. His volley, though mishit, took an unexpected trajectory and found its way into the net, making it an unforgettable moment as he surpassed Paolo Maldini’s record for the most Serie A goals scored by a Milan defender.
Shortly after levelling the score, Rafael Leao put Milan ahead with a brilliant finish. After receiving a through ball from Tammy Abraham, Leao showcased his skill by dinking the ball over the advancing goalkeeper Jean Butez.
Milan’s defence remained resolute as they sought to maintain their lead. Maignan displayed quick reflexes to deny Patrick Cutrone, who was aiming to score against his former club. In the closing moments of the match, Como threatened again but failed to find the equalizer despite creating opportunities.
Tensions flared after the final whistle as players exchanged words, particularly between Theo Hernandez and Como’s Gabrielloni. The match concluded with Milan celebrating their comeback victory, marking an important step forward for Conceição in his Serie A campaign.
Goals: Diao 60 (C), Theo Hernandez 71 (M), Rafael Leao 76 (M)
Como (3-4-2-1): Butez; Goldaniga, Dossena (’85’ Gabrielloni), Kempf; Van Der Brempt, Engelhardt ( 73′ Perrone), Da Cunha, Fadera; Strefezza (46′ Caqueret), Diao (90′ Verdi); Cutrone (90′ Belotti).
Milan (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Emerson Royal, Tomori, Thiaw (67′ Gabbia), Theo Hernandez; Fofana (73′ Camarda), Bennacer (46′ Musah); Pulisic (46′ Jimenez), Reijnders, Leao; Morata (46′ Abraham).
