AC Milan edged past Torino in a thrilling 3-2 encounter at San Siro, with a rapid second-half double proving decisive after a closely contested first period.
The Rossoneri, sitting third in Serie A, aimed to strengthen their Champions League claim. Torino, 14th in the league, sought crucial points to climb away from the relegation zone. Milan entered the match in inconsistent form, while Torino hoped for an upset.
The match began with intensity. AC Milan's Fikayo Tomori picked up an early yellow card in the 9th minute. Both sides traded blows in a physical opening period.
AC Milan finally broke the deadlock in the 36th minute. Defender Strahinja Pavlović found the net, giving the home side a hard-earned lead. The goal ignited the San Siro crowd.
However, Torino responded quickly before halftime. Giovanni Simeone, known for his predatory instincts, equalized for the Granata in the 44th minute. He headed home to send the teams into the break level.
The halftime whistle blew with the score locked at 1-1. The second half promised more action, with both teams needing a breakthrough. Tactical adjustments were expected from both benches.
AC Milan introduced Zachary Athekame for Tomori at the start of the second half. This substitution proved inspired. Milan quickly found their rhythm and pressed forward.
The Rossoneri regained their lead in the 54th minute. Adrien Rabiot fired home after an assist from Christian Pulisic. Just two minutes later, Youssouf Fofana extended Milan’s advantage from Athekame's pass. This rapid double stunned Torino.
Torino fought back hard. Nikola Vlašić converted a penalty in the 82nd minute, awarded after Pavlović was cautioned. This late goal narrowed Milan's lead to a single goal, ensuring a tense conclusion.
Milan controlled possession with 63% but Torino recorded more total shots (18 to 15) and shots on target (7 to 6). Torino's Expected Goals (xG) of 2.22 highlighted their attacking threat. Mike Maignan made five crucial saves to preserve Milan's win.
This vital 3-2 victory keeps AC Milan firmly in the Serie A top three. They strengthen their position for a coveted Champions League spot. Torino, despite a valiant effort, remains mid-table.
