A victory of character
In a high-stakes Champions League battle, Milan manage to win in Genova in an overall dull match.
First half: balance and little excitement
The first half goes by without any real chances. The hosts push high up the pitch and deliver many threatening balls into the box, running hard but failing to hit the target. The visitors sit back and contain, without ever really breaking forward. Even when they win duels, Milan’s players find themselves outnumbered and rarely cross the halfway line. As the game progresses, the Rossoneri push their defensive line higher, but remain offensively unproductive.
Second half: Nkunku converts from the spot, Athekame doubles the lead
The second half opens with Nkunku capitalising on a lapse in concentration by the Genoa defence to win a penalty, which he then converts coolly. After taking the lead, Milan focus on keeping things tight without taking risks. Genoa, despite spending most of their time in the opposition half, fail to create any real danger. The match drags on slowly, thin on excitement and chances. But with 10 minutes to go, Milan even find a second goal, courtesy of a long-range strike from Athekame. Yet the game suddenly reopens in the closing minutes.
Final whistle: Milan take home 3 golden points
Despite a lengthy stoppage time, Genoa fail to equalise. Milan win 1-2, claiming 3 crucial points in the race for Champions League qualification.
