AC Milan faced off against Fiorentina in a thrilling encounter at San Siro on April 5, 2025, which ended in a 2-2 draw. The match was pivotal, as both teams are vying for a coveted European spot in Serie A. Milan's head coach, Sergio Conceicao, spoke to the media following the match, expressing his thoughts on the team’s performance.
"There are some individual mistakes, but not only in defense. I think the team made unforced errors against the opponent," Conceicao stated. The coach emphasized the importance of improving these behaviors, which he believes stem from habits learned during youth training. He remarked, "We also miss many goals. We need to find this balance because we create a lot." This sentiment was echoed throughout the match, as Milan showcased their attacking prowess yet struggled to convert opportunities into goals.
The match saw a mix of ups and downs for Milan, who had a strong start but faltered in the second half. Conceicao acknowledged, "The approach was bad, it wasn't what we had prepared: the responsibility is mine." His frustration was palpable as he reflected on the team's inconsistency, stating, "We talk among ourselves, we prepare the matches well: the players gave me positive signs in these three days." This inconsistency is something he's keen to rectify as the season progresses.
One of the notable aspects of the match was the early substitution of Yunus Musah, who was taken off less than 25 minutes into the game due to a poor performance. Conceicao explained his decision, saying, "He gave me positive signs, he was fresh and did well in training: later, I realized that the game wasn't going well, so I substituted him." This decision highlighted the coach's commitment to fielding players who can perform under pressure.
On the other hand, Christian Pulisic had a standout performance, contributing an assist that showcased his playmaking abilities. The American winger has been a crucial player for Milan this season, and his involvement in the attack is something that fans and analysts have been closely watching. Despite the draw, his performance provided a silver lining for the Rossoneri.
As for the tactical setup, Conceicao hinted at potential changes in player roles moving forward. He discussed the future of Theo Hernandez, suggesting that he might be better suited as a wing-back in a five-man defense rather than a traditional full-back. "Offensively, he has qualities that everyone recognizes. He creates difficulties for opponents on his side," Conceicao noted. This tactical flexibility could be vital as Milan looks to strengthen their defensive structure while maximizing their offensive capabilities.
The match came after a week of uncertainty regarding the fitness of midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, who was dealing with gastroenteritis. His availability was a significant concern leading up to the game, and although he was included in the starting lineup, it highlighted the challenges Milan faced in maintaining a consistent squad. Should Reijnders have been unable to play, Musah was poised to step in, indicating the depth of talent available to Conceicao.
In terms of lineups, Milan opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, featuring Maignan in goal, with Walker, Tomori, Thiaw, and Hernandez forming the backline. Fofana and Reijnders anchored the midfield, while Musah, Pulisic, and Leao supported Abraham in attack. For Fiorentina, coach Raffaele Palladino deployed a 3-5-2 formation, with De Gea in goal and a solid defensive structure aimed at containing Milan's offensive threats.
The match was broadcasted live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and OneFootball, while fans in the USA could catch the action on Paramount+. This visibility underscores the significance of the match in the wider context of Serie A, as both teams are keen to secure their places in European competitions.
As the game unfolded, fans were treated to a rollercoaster of emotions. Milan took the lead but saw Fiorentina equalize, showcasing the competitive nature of Serie A. The draw leaves both teams with plenty to ponder as they look toward the next fixtures. With the season nearing its climax, every point counts, and both teams will be eager to solidify their standings.
Looking ahead, AC Milan will need to address their defensive frailties and find a way to convert their numerous chances into goals. The coaching staff, led by Conceicao, will undoubtedly be analyzing the match tape to identify areas for improvement. As he humorously noted when asked if he would confirm himself as Milan's coach, "I'm disappointed, but now it's making me laugh." This light-heartedness might be a necessary approach as the team navigates the pressures of the remaining season.
In conclusion, the draw against Fiorentina serves as a wake-up call for AC Milan. With the right adjustments and a focus on consistency, they can still make a strong push for a European spot. The upcoming matches will be crucial, and fans will be hoping for a turnaround in form as the season enters its final stretch.
