AC Milan's struggles continued as they were held to a 2-2 draw against Lazio on Saturday night, extending their winless streak to three games at the start of the 2024/25 Serie A season. The match, played at the Stadio Olimpico, saw AC Milan take an early lead but ultimately fail to secure all three points, leaving concerns about their form and the direction of the season.
The game started with a scare for Milan as Lazio nearly took the lead. A quick move down the left saw Dia combine with Castellanos, who returned the ball to the forward in the box. Mike Maignan came out to challenge, but missed the ball, which was chipped over him by Dia. However, Strahinja Pavlovic heroically cleared the ball off the line to keep the scores level.
Milan responded well to the early pressure and managed to get ahead in the first half. Christian Pulisic delivered a perfect inswinging corner, and Strahinja Pavlovic, fresh from his earlier defensive heroics, rose highest to power a header past Lazio's goalkeeper, opening his account for Milan after joining in the summer.
As the half progressed, Milan continued to create opportunities. Samuel Chukwueze made a darting run down the wing and sent in a cross that was cleared by Patric, but the ball fell to Youssouf Fofana. The midfielder struck a first-time volley, but his effort narrowly missed the target.
Despite Milan's growing dominance, Lazio turned the game on its head with a quick-fire double in the second half, scoring twice in four minutes to take the lead. Some embrassing defending and 2 goals basically photocopies of each other. A complete blackout for AC Milan,
The Rossoneri were stunned but fought back, with Rafael Leao playing a crucial role. Linking up with Tammy Abraham and Theo Hernandez, Rafael Leao managed to find the equalizer, giving Milan hope with 20 minutes still to play. A lovely team goal and a perfect impact. All subs involved as Milan drew level.
Paulo Fonseca, under pressure after a poor start to the season, made a bold statement with his team selection, reportedly considering dropping key players Rafael Leao and Theo Hernandez. However, both players were involved, with Fonseca earlier in his press-conference explaining that the decision was made in the best interest of the team.
Despite the late surge and several attempts to clinch the win, Milan could not find the decisive goal. The draw leaves the Rossoneri without a victory in their first three Serie A matches, raising doubts about their ability to challenge for honors this season. The disappointing 2-2 draw against Lazio has intensified doubts among the AC Milan fanbase regarding Paulo Fonseca's suitability as head coach. With the Rossoneri failing to secure a win in their first three Serie A matches, pressure is mounting on the Portuguese manager. One thing is clear: Milan needs change, and they need it fast.
The upcoming fixtures are crucial for Fonseca's future. Milan face Venezia on September 15th, followed by two daunting challenges—Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League and the Derby della Madonnina against Inter. Anything short of positive results in these games could see Fonseca's tenure come to an abrupt end before September is out.
Match Ratings:
⭐ Man of the Match: Strahinja Pavlovic (7.0 rating)** - Pavlovic was outstanding, not only for his crucial goal but also for his vital defensive clearance early in the game.
📉 Flop of the Match: Emerson Royal (4.0 rating) - Struggled throughout, failing to make an impact either defensively or offensively.
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