On May 5, 2025, AC Milan showcased their resilience and determination in a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. After falling behind to an early goal from Vitinha, the Rossoneri rallied to secure all three points, marking their third consecutive win under coach Sérgio Conceição.
The match began with Genoa taking the lead in the 61st minute. Vitinha, who had just entered the match, found the net with a precise shot following a well-placed cross from Aarón Martín. The home crowd erupted in celebration, as the Grifone seemed poised to upset the Milan giants.
However, Milan's response was swift and decisive. Rafael Leão, initially left on the bench, was brought on to replace the injured Youssouf Fofana in the 28th minute. His impact was immediate and transformative. Leão scored the equalizer in the 75th minute, capitalizing on a pass from Santiago Giménez. The Portuguese forward's shot deflected off Genoa's Morten Frendrup, who inadvertently sent the ball into his own net just two minutes later, sealing the comeback for Milan.
After the match, Leão expressed the importance of the victory, stating, "We talked among ourselves and said these last few games are crucial to picking up as many points as possible. The coach changed the formation, and we’re more compact now — I think we’ve only conceded two goals in the last few matches." His words echoed the sentiments of a team focused on finishing the season strong, despite their slim chances of securing European qualification.
Leão's performance not only showcased his talent but also highlighted the depth of Milan's squad. Coach Sérgio Conceição's decision to utilize his bench effectively has become a hallmark of his management style, and it proved pivotal once again in this match. The Rossoneri have now won three consecutive matches, a feat that underscores their growing momentum as they approach the Coppa Italia final against Bologna.
Defensively, Milan faced challenges, particularly in the first half, where goalkeeper Mike Maignan was called upon to make several critical saves. Maignan's performance was stellar, with two standout saves that kept Milan in the game during Genoa's early pressure. His efforts earned him praise as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
The match also featured notable performances from other players. While Christian Pulisic had a frustrating evening, squandering a significant chance, Giménez made a positive impact off the bench, providing the assist for Leão's equalizer. The teamwork and determination displayed by the Milan squad were evident, as they rallied around each other to overcome adversity.
Despite the victory, Milan's path to European competition remains uncertain. The team has been plagued by inconsistency throughout the season, but this win against Genoa could serve as a turning point. Leão emphasized the need to maintain focus in the remaining matches, saying, "Of course, we want to win a trophy, but there’s still one more game to go." His commitment to the team's success is indicative of the collective mindset within the squad.
As the season winds down, Milan's players are keenly aware of the stakes. Leão's suspension for the upcoming league match against Bologna due to a yellow card will be a setback, but he remains optimistic about returning for the crucial Coppa Italia final. The team's resilience and depth will be tested as they aim to finish the season on a high note.
In conclusion, the match against Genoa was a testament to Milan's fighting spirit and the tactical acumen of Coach Sérgio Conceição. With the season drawing to a close, every point is vital, and the Rossoneri are determined to make the most of their remaining opportunities. As they look ahead to the Coppa Italia final, the momentum gained from this victory could prove invaluable.
