AC Milan edged closer to securing automatic qualification for the Champions League round of 16 with a narrow 1-0 victory over Girona at the San Siro. Rafael Leão’s decisive first-half strike sealed a fifth consecutive win for the Rossoneri, propelling them into the top eight while eliminating their Spanish opponents from the competition.
The win also marked a historic achievement for Milan, as they recorded five straight victories in the Champions League for the first time in two decades.
How the Game Unfolded
First Half: Milan Dominates Early
Milan started the match on the front foot, asserting their dominance in possession and creating early chances. Theo Hernández came close to opening the scoring in the 18th minute, rattling the crossbar with a thunderous strike. Moments later, Yunus Musah also struck the woodwork, further underlining Milan’s attacking intent.
The breakthrough finally came in the 37th minute. Ismaël Bennacer delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to Rafael Leão, who sprinted past Girona’s defense and rifled a powerful shot into the roof of the net. The Portuguese winger’s third goal in as many Champions League appearances gave Milan a deserved lead.
Second Half: Girona’s Fightback Falls Short
Girona showed more attacking intent after the break, nearly finding an equalizer in the 58th minute. Bryan Gil curled a beautiful effort past Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.
Milan, buoyed by their defensive solidity, comfortably absorbed Girona’s pressure in the closing stages. Simon Kjær and Fikayo Tomori marshaled the backline effectively, ensuring that the visitors couldn’t find a way back into the game.
Key Talking Points
1. Rafael Leão Matches Zlatan’s Record
Rafael Leão’s winner marked his third consecutive Champions League game with a goal, making him the first AC Milan player to achieve this feat since Zlatan Ibrahimović in 2011-2012. Leão’s pace, skill, and composure in front of goal continue to make him a vital asset for the Rossoneri.
2. Milan’s Defensive Resilience
Milan’s ability to grind out results has been key to their resurgence in the Champions League. The defensive pairing of Simon Kjær and Fikayo Tomori has provided stability, while Mike Maignan’s assured presence in goal has been crucial in maintaining clean sheets.
3. Girona’s Woeful Away Form
Girona’s struggles in the Champions League were evident once again. They became only the second team in the competition’s history to lose their first four away games without scoring, joining Rapid Wien (1996-2005) in an unwanted record. Girona’s lack of attacking threat and defensive frailties have been their undoing.
Data Debrief: Milan’s Historic Streak
- Five Straight Wins: For the first time since their run to the final in 2003, AC Milan has won five consecutive Champions League matches.
- Leão’s Scoring Streak: Rafael Leão has scored in three consecutive Champions League games, equaling Zlatan Ibrahimović’s record for the club.
- Girona’s Woes: Girona became the second Spanish team to lose six games in a single Champions League campaign, matching Villarreal’s record from 2011-12.
What’s Next?
- AC Milan: The Rossoneri sit sixth in the Champions League table and are two points clear of Aston Villa in ninth. A positive result in their final match will secure their automatic qualification for the round of 16.
- Girona: With their elimination confirmed, Girona will play for pride in their final group game, looking to end their campaign on a high note.
Player Ratings
| Position | Player | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| GK | Mike Maignan | 7.5 |
| RB | Davide Calabria | 7.2 |
| CB | Simon Kjær | 7.8 |
| CB | Fikayo Tomori | 7.6 |
| LB | Theo Hernández | 7.9 |
| CM | Ismaël Bennacer | 8.0 |
| CM | Yunus Musah | 7.4 |
| RW | Christian Pulisic | 6.8 |
| AM | Brahim Díaz | 7.0 |
| LW | Rafael Leão | 8.5 |
| ST | Olivier Giroud | 6.7 |
Substitutes:
- Tommaso Pobega: 6.5
- Alessandro Florenzi: 6.3
- Luka Romero: 6.2
Player of the Match: Rafael Leão
Leão’s decisive goal and overall attacking threat earned him the Player of the Match award. His pace, creativity, and finishing ability were pivotal in securing Milan’s victory.
Conclusion
AC Milan’s 1-0 win over Girona was a professional performance that showcased their defensive resilience and attacking quality. With Rafael Leão in red-hot form and their defense holding firm, the Rossoneri are well-positioned to make a deep run in the competition. Girona, on the other hand, will reflect on a campaign marred by missed opportunities and poor form.
FAQs
1. Who scored the winning goal for AC Milan?
Rafael Leão scored the only goal of the match in the 37th minute.
2. How many consecutive wins has AC Milan achieved in the Champions League?
Milan has won five consecutive Champions League matches, their best streak since 2003.
3. What’s next for AC Milan?
Milan will look to secure their place in the round of 16 with a positive result in their final group game.
4. How did Girona perform?
Girona struggled to create chances and failed to score, continuing their poor form in the competition.
5. Who was the standout player?
Rafael Leão was the standout player, scoring the decisive goal and providing a constant threat in attack.
