AC Milan 2-0 Crvena Zvezda: Tammy Abraham nets late winner as Rossoneri battle past visitors
AC Milan had to exert considerable effort to secure a 2-1 victory over Crvena Zvezda at the San Siro, marking their fourth consecutive win in the UEFA Champions League (UCL).
Crvena Zvezda arrived in Milan aware that a victory was crucial for their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage. However, they faced a Rossoneri side that also required three points to solidify their position in the playoff spots.
Although the home team dominated possession, they encountered difficulties in translating that control into meaningful chances. Tijjani Reijnders was the first to test the Serbian goalkeeper, but his shot was easily handled as it went straight down the center.
Rafael Leão then attempted to break the deadlock, but Ivan Guteša managed to extend his leg just enough to deny the winger.
Shortly thereafter, Crvena Zvezda posed a significant threat when Andrija Maksimović's effort from the center of the box struck the crossbar. The first half saw few clear-cut chances, as Crvena effectively contained the hosts' attacking efforts.
Tammy Abraham came on early to replace the injured Álvaro Morata and nearly made an immediate impact, attempting to direct a cross past Guteša, but his shot narrowly missed the target.
Just before the half-time whistle, AC Milan finally made a breakthrough when Youssouf Fofana delivered a long ball that evaded the Crvena defense, allowing Leão to control it and score past Guteša.
The visitors displayed a vigorous performance in the second half, as Ognjen Mimović and Timi Elšnik compelled Mike Maignan to make two crucial saves, thereby maintaining AC's advantage.
Just when it appeared that the home team would successfully manage the game, Nemanja Radonjić intercepted the ball outside the penalty area. After a moment of hesitation, the winger struck the ball decisively past Maignan, equalizing the score.
A significant concern for AC during the second half was their failure to convert opportunities into goals, with Emerson Royal's shot directly at Guteša being their only noteworthy attempt with six minutes remaining.
Nevertheless, shortly thereafter, Abraham witnessed the ball ricochet off the crossbar and fall at his feet, allowing him to scramble it over the line and secure the three points.
This victory propels Milan to 12th place in the league standings, effectively ensuring their position in the play-off round.
While it remains mathematically feasible for Crevena to advance, this last-minute defeat leaves them with the daunting task of overcoming a five-point deficit to reach the play-off spots, with only two matches remaining.
SportsLigue