AC Milan secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Como on March 15, 2025, marking what could be the turning point of their season. The Rossoneri, managed by Sergio Conceicao, put forth another strong second-half performance, pushing them to back-to-back wins and reviving hopes of Champions League qualification.
The match began with Como taking the lead when Lucas da Cunha found the net at the 33rd minute. Milan struggled to regain control during the first half, as Como managed to create eight shots with three on target, culminating in 0.66 expected goals (xG).
After halftime, Milan regrouped and increased their intensity. The turning point came when Tijjani Reijnders set up Christian Pulisic to equalize at the 53rd minute. This marked Pulisic's significant impact on the match, enhancing his reputation among fans.
Reijnders didn't stop there; he scored the winner himself at the 75th minute, showcasing his dual impact by not only contributing with the assist but also scoring the decisive goal. This was the first time Reijnders managed both goals and assists during the same match throughout his career in the top 10 European leagues.
Sergio Conceicao was elated after the victory, expressing his belief about the team's determination. "I see results of a group who really wants to do well and gives its all. There's an incredible desire to turn around the moment and Milan's season," he stated. The victory elevated Milan to seventh place in the Serie A standings.
While the team celebrated, there were still reflections on their habits. Pulisic candidly admitted, "I can't give you a reason, we want to start the game stronger and I don't know why this season we're always in trouble in the first half. The important thing is to do it more effectively during the second half." This acknowledgment highlights the area the squad is eager to improve.
Reijnders weighed in on the need for sharpness, stating, "This is something we are suffering this season. I don't think it's sharpness, but we are making personal mistakes and these things can't happen when you are playing for Milan. I said multiple times this season, we have to improve, and right now is the best moment to do it." The team’s aspirations were made clear, reflecting their ambitions for the remainder of the season.
On Como's side, disappointment loomed large after their early advantage evaporated. Dele Alli, making his comeback after more than two years, received his marching orders just 10 minutes after his entry, which overshadowed any hopes for his team. His dismissal, for stamping on Ruben Loftus-Cheek's leg during stoppage time, came as Cesc Fabregas lamented the incident affecting Como's chances. Fabregas remarked, "A serious mistake by an experienced player. Clear red, he left the team at a time when it could have made it 2-2." The manager anticipated focusing on needed improvements as they navigated through the consequences of today’s unfortunate events.
Despite the defeat, Fabregas remained forward-looking, saying, "It has been an unlucky season, so many small details hurt. I never give up, I'm positive and we always move forward." The resilience showed by Como signifies their effort to stay clear of relegation, holding nine points above the drop zone.
For AC Milan, the path seems to be aligning favorably as they strive for consistency. Only Bologna has gained more points from losing positions than Milan, hinting at the potential the team has to come back when faced with adversity. And as they venture forth, both Pulisic and Reijnders see this victory as not simply another three points, but as validating proof of how they are maturing and modifying their approach.
The upcoming matches loom large for the Rossoneri, as their chase for upward mobility continues. Will this latest comeback serve as the foundation they need to flourish and secure Champions League football for next season? Only time will tell as they forge on through the rigorous competition of Serie A.