Liverpool made a triumphant return to the Champions League, overcoming an early setback to beat AC Milan 3-1 at the iconic San Siro. In what could have been an uncomfortable evening for Jurgen Klopp’s side, they displayed resilience and control to turn the match around, ultimately asserting their dominance in a confident performance.
Pulisic Strikes Early for AC Milan
Christian Pulisic, fresh from his summer move to Milan, capitalized on a momentary lapse in Liverpool’s defense. Kostas Tsimikas was left exposed on the left flank, allowing Pulisic to find space behind him and fire a low shot into the far corner, beyond Alisson’s reach. The early goal sent the San Siro crowd into a frenzy and gave Milan a dream start.
For a brief period, it looked as though Liverpool might be in for a difficult night. Milan, buoyed by their quick start, pressed high and looked to exploit any further defensive weaknesses. However, Klopp’s men remained composed, gradually settling into their rhythm and wresting control of the match away from their Italian hosts.
Liverpool’s Response for Early Setback
Liverpool’s steadily grew into the game, with their midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Curtis Jones dictating the pace and flow of the contest. Milan struggled to maintain their intensity, allowing Liverpool to assert control.
Helpfully for the Reds, the goals that turned the game around were relatively straightforward, as Milan’s defense faltered on set-pieces. First, in the 23rd minute, Ibrahima Konate rose highest to meet a well-delivered free-kick from the left. His header, powerful and precise, left Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan with no chance, leveling the score at 1-1.
Ten minutes later, Liverpool struck again, this time from a corner on the right. Virgil van Dijk, as commanding as ever in the air, connected with a whipped delivery to nod Liverpool into the lead. Milan’s defense was caught ball-watching once more, as van Dijk’s header sailed into the net, giving the Reds a 2-1 advantage. The two goals, both from defenders, demonstrated Liverpool’s strength in set-piece situations and exposed Milan’s frailties in defending them.
Salah’s Frustration and Liverpool’s Dominance
Liverpool could have extended their lead further before halftime, with Mohamed Salah coming agonizingly close on two occasions. Twice, the Egyptian forward rattled the underside of the crossbar, his pace and movement causing constant problems for Milan’s backline. Despite his frustration at not finding the net, Salah’s presence was a persistent threat, forcing Milan to play cautiously and limiting their ability to push forward.
By the time the halftime whistle blew, Liverpool were firmly in control, having dominated possession and created the lion’s share of the chances.
Szoboszlai Seals the Win
The second half saw Liverpool continue their dominance, with Milan offering little in the way of a response. Klopp’s side played with confidence, moving the ball swiftly and controlling the tempo of the match. Any Milan attempts to break forward were quickly snuffed out by Liverpool’s solid defensive pairing of van Dijk and Konate, while the midfield trio continued to dictate play.
Liverpool’s third goal came in the 67th minute and effectively killed off the game as a contest. Cody Gakpo, who had been lively throughout, produced a brilliant piece of play down the left flank, dribbling past two Milan defenders before cutting the ball back into the box. Dominic Szoboszlai, timing his run perfectly, slotted the ball home with a clinical finish to make it 3-1.
It was a goal that encapsulated Liverpool’s performance on the night—composed, clinical, and ultimately dominant. Milan, despite their early promise, were unable to muster a meaningful response, and the remainder of the match played out with Liverpool comfortably managing their lead.
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