A goal from Rafael Leao and a stunning solo effort from Teo Hernandez earned AC Milan a 2-0 victory against Atalanta in a packed San Siro on Sunday, leaving the Rossoneri on the verge of winning Serie A for the first time in 11 years.
AC Milan moved closer to securing their first Serie A title for 11 years on Sunday, as goals from Rafael Leao and Theo Hernandez earned them a 2-0 victory over Atlanta, the victory which saw them finish the day two points clear of second-placed Inter Milan. AC Milan is one point from winning their first Italian League title since 2011, with victory against Atalanta at San Siro giving them their fifth straight victory. AC Milan took a massive step toward winning the title when they scored twice in the second half to seal their first league victory on their home soil in eight years over Atalanta.
Stefano Pioli’s double score in the second half gave Milan victory; they are now within touching distance of winning the Scudetto. Stefano Pioli’s side battled in an intense first half and looked nervous at times as the goal for the Milan title was so tantalisingly close. Still, their individual qualities shone through after halftime, while the defensive capacity to maintain a fifth straight league-winning clean sheet at home deserves immense credit.
AC Milan’s last league defeat came in January, and their team seemed to have the unity that champions require. However, it has been a collective effort for Milan all season, and no one on their roster has been anywhere near Serie A best in goals or assists. AC Milan’s quality did shine in the second half, though, with a superb finish from Raphael Leao and an excellent one-timer from fullback Hernandez seeing AC Milan home, to the relief of a waiting San Siro.
Mike Maignan and Rafael Leao have been dubbed the “two most important players in this Milan.” Starting with the former – who joined last year to replace Gianluigi Donnarumma – Maignan instantly showed his ability with outstanding performances and authority. Of course, he has committed mistakes, but he is responsible for many of Milan’s excellent results this season. Maignan has maintained a clean sheet in 18 of the 38 games he has played this season in all tournaments.
Whether coming from behind to win Milan’s past two away games in Lazio and Verona or coming through on a late goal by Raphael Leao at home, they always found a way to continue picking up points when at their best or worst, and it was again done here. The 2-0 victory at Atalanta was AC Milan’s fifth straight in the league and extended their unbeaten run to 15 games in Serie A.
