In a stunning display of skill and determination, AC Milan secured a memorable 3-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu in their Champions League clash. The Rossoneri, who had struggled in their European campaign thus far, put on a magnificent performance to overcome Carlo Ancelotti’s star-studded side.
The match began with both teams showing attacking intent, but it was Milan who struck first. Malick Thiaw rose highest to meet Christian Pulisic’s corner, powering a header into the roof of the net to give the visitors the lead. Real Madrid equalized through a Vinicius Junior penalty after a foul by Theo Hernandez, but Milan refused to be cowed.
Former Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata came back to haunt his old club, pouncing on a rebound after Rafael Leao’s initial shot was saved by Andrey Lunin. The goal restored Milan’s lead and set the tone for a confident second-half display.
Milan’s third goal came courtesy of Tijjani Reijnders, who finished off a blistering counter-attack initiated by Leao’s explosive run past Eder Militao. The Dutch midfielder’s cool finish effectively sealed the win for the Italian side.
Real Madrid thought they had pulled one back through Antonio Rudiger, but VAR controversially ruled out the goal for an offside in the build-up. This decision epitomized a frustrating night for the Spanish giants, who struggled to break down Milan’s resolute defense.
Mike Maignan was instrumental in preserving Milan’s lead, making several crucial saves, including a spectacular stop to deny Brahim Diaz late in the game. At the other end, Lunin was kept busy, making important interventions to prevent Milan from extending their lead further.
This victory marks a significant turnaround for Milan in their Champions League campaign and serves as a statement of intent in a tough group. For Real Madrid, the defeat compounds their recent struggles and raises questions about their form in big matches.
As the final whistle blew, the Milan players celebrated a famous victory that will long be remembered by their fans. The result not only boosts their chances of progressing in the competition but also reaffirms their status as one of Europe’s top teams.
Goals: Thiaw 13 (M), Vinicius Junior pen 23 (RM), Morata 39 (M), Reijnders 73 (M)
Real Madrid (4-3-1-2): Lunin; Lucas Vázquez, Militao, Rüdiger, Mendy (75′ Fran Garcia); Valverde (46′ Camavinga), Modric (63′ Ceballos), Tchouaméni (46′ Brahim Diaz); Bellingham (73′ Rodrygo); Mbappé, Vinicius.
Milan (4-3-3): Maignan; Emerson Royal (92′ Calabria), Thiaw, Tomori, Theo Hernandez; Fofana, Reijnders; Musah (92′ Pavlovic), Pulisic (70′ Loftus-Cheek), Leao (78′ Okafor); Morata (70′ Abraham)
