AC Milan suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Bologna at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on February 27, 2025, significantly complicATING their European competition aspirations. The match marked their third straight loss, raising concerns among fans and analysts about the rossonero's season.
Santiago Giménez started the game for Milan, eager to prove his worth but faced challenges throughout the match. Just 20 seconds after kick-off, the Mexican forward received the ball from Yunus Musah and took his first shot on goal, only for his effort to soar over the crossbar. It was not the strongest beginning for Giménez, who was hoping to establish early momentum for his team.
Fortunately for Milan, Giménez contributed positively later when he assisted the opening goal. Moments before half-time, he facilitated the first and only goal of the first half by heading the ball to Rafael Leão, who outmaneuvered Bologna's goalkeeper, Lukasz Slorupski, and slotted home to secure a 1-0 lead.
Despite the promising start, the second half proved disastrous for Milan as Bologna equalized just three minutes after the break. Santiago Castro seized on defensive hesitation and struck, bringing the game level at 1-1. After the goal, Milan struggled to regain control, and the mounting pressure eventually led to their unraveling.
Giménez was substituted at the 76-minute mark for Luka Jovic, but the tide had already shifted. Bologna's Dan Ndoye scored the winner shortly after, capitalizing on insufficient marking by the Milan defense to convert a cross, sealing the match 2-1 for the home side.
This defeat not only halted Milan's previous streak of 17 matches without loss to Bologna—a run stretching back to 2016—but also marked the first time the Rossoblu triumphed over the Italian giants at home since 2002. With this win, Bologna climbed to sixth place with 44 points, securing their position for potential UEFA competition next season, whereas Milan remained stuck with 41 points, languishing in eighth place.
"This defeat is particularly disappointing for us as it undermines our goals for the season," reflected coach Stefano Pioli post-match, expressing frustration over the team's inability to capitalize on early dominance. He indicated the pressing need for tactical adjustments as Milan prepares to face Lazio on March 2 at their home ground, the San Siro.
The rossonero's hopes for European football next year now face serious jeopardy, as the series of unfortunate results leaves them three points adrift of Bologna and struggling to regain form. Pioli's side will need to rally quickly and find their footing with only time left to salvage their standing.
On the other side, Bologna's coach celebrated the significant victory. "We came back strong after our last game and earned these three points, which do wonders for our confidence and standings," he said, emphasizing the team's determination to push for European qualification.
Overall, the clash highlighted both teams’ opposing trajectories: Milan's downward spiral presents urgent concerns, whereas Bologna celebrates renewed belief as they seek to challenge for higher spots within Serie A. Fans will be closely watching the outcome of Milan's next fixture against Lazio, which will be pivotal for the team’s chances at redemption this season.