AC Milan bounced back from recent setbacks with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Monza at the U-Power Stadium. The match saw the return of key players and a tactical shake-up that proved decisive for the Rossoneri.
Tijjani Reijnders, back from suspension, made an immediate impact by scoring the game’s only goal. The Dutch midfielder’s header from a rebound proved to be the difference in a tightly contested affair. His return, along with that of Theo Hernandez, provided a much-needed boost to Milan’s lineup.
Despite the win, eyebrows were raised as Rafael Leao was left on the bench for the third consecutive Serie A match. Coach Paulo Fonseca’s decision to start without the Portuguese star continues to spark debate among fans and pundits alike.
The hosts had their share of opportunities, with Daniel Maldini coming close on multiple occasions. Monza even had a goal disallowed early in the game when Dany Mota Carvalho’s strike was ruled out due to a foul in the build-up.
Milan’s goalkeeper Mike Maignan was called into action, making a spectacular save to deny Pedro Pereira’s header. The French keeper’s performance was crucial in maintaining a clean sheet for the visitors.
As the match progressed, Leao was introduced in the second half, adding fresh energy to Milan’s attack. However, the forward couldn’t find the back of the net despite creating several chances.
This victory comes as a relief for Milan, who had lost two of their previous three Serie A encounters. The win helps them maintain their position in the top four, keeping their Champions League aspirations alive.
Goals: Reijnders 43 (Milan)
Monza (3-4-2-1): Turati; Izzo, Marì, Carboni (78′ Caprari); Pereira (65′ D’Ambrosio), Bianco, Bondo (87′ Valoti), Kyriakopoulos; Maldini, Mota Carvalho (65′ Vignato); Djuric (78′ Maric).
Milan (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Terracciano (89′ Calabria), Thiaw, Pavlovic, Theo Hernandez; Fofana, Reijnders; Chukwueze (81′ Loftus-Cheek), Pulisic (89′ Musah), Okafor (63′ Leao); Morata.
