It was another disheartening chapter for AC Milan as they succumbed to Torino 2-1 at the Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2025. This match epitomized the Rossoneri's season of struggles, compounded by glaring errors and mounting frustrations on the pitch.
The starting whistle had barely sounded when Milan found themselves on the back foot. A catastrophic miscommunication between goalkeeper Mike Maignan and defender Malick Thiaw resulted in Torino taking the lead just five minutes in. Maignan attempted to clear the ball but ended up kicking it against Thiaw, sending it directly past him and sliding helplessly across the goal line. It was almost comical and darkly reminiscent of earlier mistakes this season, signifying just how out of sorts the squad had become.
The situation worsened when AC Milan was awarded a penalty kick after Rafael Leao was fouled. Christian Pulisic, designated to take the shot, stepped up but was thwarted by Torino's goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, who successfully parried away the attempt. This miss added to the mounting anxiety within the squad and echoed the discontent permeated through the fanbase at the Curva Sud. Following the match, fans chanted their disappointment, urging the team with harsh words: "Go to work." Clearly, frustration was boiling over following yet another lackluster performance.
Despite controlling the ball and commanding significant possession throughout the first half, Milan's efforts were stifled by Torino's disciplined defense. They struggled to convert opportunities, including multiple sequence plays and chances created from set pieces. Although Joao Felix almost leveled the score, his strike was denied just inches from the target.
After the interval, both teams returned to the pitch with renewed vigor. Milan finally found their way to goal when Tijjani Reijnders, who had been instrumental all evening, found the back of the net with his eighth goal of the league season. This equalizer seemingly reignited hope within the Rossoneri ranks, and the tension shifted dramatically as the players pushed for the lead.
Yet, the excitement was short-lived. Barely two minutes after Reijnders' equalizer, Torino responded with their own offensive thrust. Seizing on a lapse of concentration from the Milan defense, Giidas Gineitis fired the ball past Maignan, restoring Torino's lead and causing disbelief among the traveling fans. This sequence underscored Milan's issues; they were unable to maintain focus for extended periods, allowing Torino to capitalize on their mistakes.
Analysts noted the challenging season for Milan, which had been marred by injuries to key players like Kyle Walker and Emerson Royal, who were still recovering. The losses, including the recent Champions League exit to Feyenoord, had significantly dented the players' morale and hopes of securing the Champions League position.
Post-match ratings reflected the team's inadequacies, with Maignan receiving criticism for his early blunder. Fans and pundits alike pointed out the rising number of mistakes this season had cultivated growing frustration. Player evaluations pointed to significant room for improvement across the board, with Pulisic's missed penalty particularly highlighted as symbolic of Milan's struggles.
Milan manager Sergio Conceicao faces the overwhelming task of revitalizing his squad amid mounting pressure. The loss to Torino not only hindered their immediate goal of securing top-four positioning but also raised questions about the team's direction and resilience. Conceicao would need to rally his troops effectively to navigate the challenges lying ahead.
Meanwhile, Torino basked in the glory of their victory, enjoying the fruits of their labor as they showcased both grit and determination on the pitch. They now seek to build momentum from this win, having capitalized on Milan's mistakes effectively.
The match concluded with Torino tasting victory, leaving Milan again grappling with their issues as they aim to salvage what remains of the season. Supporters at the Curva Sud expressed their dissatisfaction vividly—a stark reminder of the expectations placed upon these elite athletes. With several pivotal fixtures approaching, it remains to be seen whether AC Milan can turn their fortunes around or continue down their disheartening path.