AC Milan secured a narrow but hard-fought victory against Hellas Verona with a score of 1-0 on December 20, 2024, at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi. The Rossoneri, desperate for points following a string of lackluster performances, managed to clinch three timely points as they strive for consistency.
The match had all the hallmarks of a classic Serie A encounter; it was gritty, filled with tactical battles, and moments of brilliance. The decisive moment came shortly after halftime when Tijjani Reijnders scored the only goal of the match. The Dutch midfielder, who had been finding form, made the most of a perfectly timed assist from teammate Youssouf Fofana.
Reijnders, who has been pivotal for Milan this season, showcased excellent skill and precision. His strike, executed with impeccable technique, pierced through the Verona defense and found the back of the net in the 56th minute. The goal marked Reijnders' fourth of the season, equaling his personal best for goals scored within one league campaign. This performance has only solidified his position as one of the team's key players.
Throughout the match, both teams struggled to create clear goal-scoring opportunities, with the focus primarily on midfield duels rather than attacking play. Even though Milan held the majority of possession during the game, their inability to convert chances raised concerns. Their expected goals (xG) for the match stood at 0.84, just edging out Verona's modest output.
Fofana was instrumental not only for his assist but also for anchoring Milan's midfield. He was praised for his resilience, having been fouled multiple times and winning key duels, showcasing his leadership on the pitch. "It was important for us to get the win. We didn’t perform in the last match, and we needed to show a reaction," Reijnders reflected post-match, emphasizing the necessity for such victories to boost their morale.
While the victory celebrated by the Rossoneri was much needed, it did not come without cost. Rafael Leao was forced off the field due to what appeared to be a strain in his flexor muscle. Fortunately, post-game assessments indicated it might not be serious, yet the team remains concerned as they prepare for the Italian Super Cup scheduled for early January.
The match itself also witnessed tensions flare as late-game frustrations led to one member of Verona's coaching staff receiving a red card for dissent. Such incidents have become common when teams are embroiled in close encounters where every point matters.
With the win, Milan moved up to seventh place, accumulating 26 points but still trailing leaders Atalanta by 11 points. Meanwhile, Verona remains precariously positioned at 17th place with just 15 points, facing concerns about relegation as the season progresses.
Despite the positive result, Milan has plenty to work on, particularly their attacking fluidity. Their previous encounters featured more offensive vigor, and the coaching staff, led by Paulo Fonseca, will be hoping for improvement as they face looming challenges against strong sides like Roma and Juventus.
The narrow victory at Verona may not have been spectacular, but it provided AC Milan with much-needed momentum headed toward the winter break. Players, fans, and staff alike will be hoping this triumph can spark the revival of their season as they enter the busy schedule of fixtures leading up to the new year.
