Milan has once again shown its resilience, turning the tide in a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Genoa at the Luigi Ferraris stadium on May 5, 2025. The match, part of the 35th round of Serie A, saw Rafael Leao come off the bench to make a significant impact, helping his team secure three crucial points in their pursuit of European competition.
The game started slowly, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm in the first half, which ended in a goalless stalemate. Genoa appeared to take control after the break, with Vitinha scoring in the 61st minute just after entering the match. This goal seemed to put the home side in the driver’s seat, but Milan had other plans.
Leao, who had been benched for technical reasons according to Milan's technical director Moncada, replaced the injured Youssouf Fofana in the 76th minute. His entry proved pivotal as he quickly made his mark by equalizing for Milan just five minutes after coming on. Leao's goal came as he skillfully maneuvered through Genoa's defense, sending a powerful shot that found the back of the net.
Just a minute later, the situation took a dramatic turn as Frendrup, under pressure, inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net, gifting Milan a 2-1 lead. This unfortunate own goal capped off a whirlwind few minutes for the Rossoneri, who had initially looked out of sorts.
Despite the shaky start, Milan's goalkeeper Mike Maignan was a standout performer, making several crucial saves throughout the match. He denied a close-range effort from Norton-Cuffy in the 7th minute, showcasing his reflexes with a diving stop. Maignan was also instrumental in the first half, saving a potential own goal from teammate Christian Pulisic in the 23rd minute, ensuring the score remained level at halftime.
The match was not without its challenges for Milan, as Fofana had to leave the pitch due to a left foot injury, raising concerns ahead of the upcoming Coppa Italia final against Bologna. His condition will be evaluated closely in the coming days, but for now, Leao's performance has underscored his importance to the team.
Christian Pulisic, who had a mixed performance, appeared to regain some of his attacking aggression, although he struggled to find the net in the first half. He had a golden opportunity to score in the 41st minute, but his shot was thwarted by Genoa's goalkeeper Leali.
As the match progressed, Milan's determination to secure a win became evident. The Rossoneri, currently sitting in ninth place in the Serie A standings, now have 57 points, just two points shy of Fiorentina. This victory not only boosts their confidence but also keeps their hopes alive for a European spot next season.
Head coach Sergio Conceicao expressed relief at the victory, noting that it was essential to avoid further turmoil after a string of inconsistent performances. "We needed this win, especially with the pressure of the Coppa Italia final looming. The team showed character, and Leao's impact was crucial," he said.
Looking ahead, Milan will face Bologna in a match that could define their season, but they will have to do so without Leao, who received a yellow card in the 80th minute and will be suspended. This adds another layer of complexity to their preparations for the cup final, with Fofana's injury further complicating matters.
In contrast, Genoa will need to regroup after a disappointing result, having led for a brief moment. Vitinha's goal was a highlight for the home side, marking a return to scoring after a long drought. However, the inability to hold onto the lead will be a point of concern for their coach.
As the season progresses, both teams will be looking to solidify their strategies and player performances. Milan's comeback win serves as a reminder of their potential, while Genoa must find a way to convert opportunities into points if they hope to improve their standing in the league.
In the end, this match was a testament to the unpredictable nature of football, where fortunes can change in the blink of an eye. With the Serie A season nearing its conclusion, every point is vital, and both teams will be eager to make their mark in the remaining fixtures.
