AC Milan secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Pisa in the 25th week of the 2025-2026 Serie A season at the Cetilar Arena on Saturday (February 14, 2026). The decisive goal came in the final minutes from veteran midfielder Luka Modric, ensuring three valuable points for the Rossoneri.
Despite Milan taking the early lead, the match highlighted the team’s ongoing challenges against teams that rely on defensive organization and quick counterattacks. Modric’s composure and experience proved pivotal in turning a tense encounter into a crucial win.
Early Goal and Dramatic Equalizer
Ruben Loftus-Cheek put Milan ahead in the first half with a well-placed header inside the penalty box. However, Pisa responded in the second half, leveling the score and creating a tense atmosphere as the match appeared destined for a draw.
The drama intensified when Niclas Fullkrug missed a key penalty that could have doubled Milan’s lead. His strike hit the outside of the post, almost costing Milan the three points. In the end, it was Modric’s late strike that made the difference, demonstrating why his presence is invaluable in high-pressure moments.
Milan’s Goalkeeping and Defensive Performance
Goalkeeper Mike Maignan had limited options when Milan conceded due to gaps in the backline. The French shot-stopper still recorded a crucial save in the first half, although it came from an offside position.
Defenders Fikayo Tomori and Matteo Gabbia showed some vulnerabilities in tracking Pisa’s movements. While they managed key clearances, their positioning during Pisa’s goal highlighted areas for tactical improvement.
Strahinja Pavlovic and Athekame emerged as the standout defenders for Milan. Pavlovic’s aggressive play led to the winning penalty, while Athekame contributed with a precise cross that set up Milan’s opening goal. Their performances emphasized the importance of balancing youth energy with experience in defense.
Midfield Contributions
Enzo Fofana played a crucial role in defensive phases, executing several clean interceptions. However, his passing speed and transition efficiency could improve to enhance Milan’s counterattacks.
Luka Modric, despite occasional loose touches, commanded the midfield and provided leadership on the pitch. His decisive goal in the final five minutes secured the win and underlined his role as a match-winner.
Adrien Rabiot maintained balance in midfield with his ability to retain possession under pressure. His yellow card, however, will see him suspended for Milan’s next Serie A fixture against Como.
Forward Line Impact
Ruben Loftus-Cheek remained influential in the first half, not only scoring with his header but also consistently controlling the ball as instructed by Allegri.
Christopher Nkunku did not register a goal or assist, but his movement caused multiple problems for Pisa’s defenders. His confidence and involvement suggested steady progress compared to previous matches.
Substitute Contributions
Niclas Fullkrug’s missed penalty was a key moment, nearly jeopardizing Milan’s win. Meanwhile, Samuele Ricci brought mobility and dynamism to the midfield, linking well with Modric to pressure Pisa in the closing stages.
Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic applied pace and creativity in the final third, helping maintain offensive intensity despite not scoring. Their contributions were essential in keeping Pisa on the back foot and supporting Milan’s late push for the winning goal.
AC Milan Player Ratings
Starting XI:
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Maignan (GK): 6
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Tomori: 5.5
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Gabbia: 6
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Pavlovic: 7
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Athekame: 7
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Fofana: 6
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Modric: 8 (Man of the Match)
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Rabiot: 6
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Bartesaghi: 6
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Loftus-Cheek: 7.5
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Nkunku: 6
Substitutes:
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Fullkrug: 5
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Ricci: 7
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Leao: 6
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Pulisic: 6
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De Winter: N/A
Analysis and Takeaways
The match against Pisa highlighted both strengths and weaknesses within AC Milan’s squad. While the Rossoneri demonstrated resilience and secured three points, defensive cohesion and offensive effectiveness remain areas for improvement.
Modric’s performance, in particular, exemplified the impact of experience and composure in tight matches. His ability to lead by example and deliver decisive moments sets a benchmark for younger players within the squad.
Loftus-Cheek’s consistency and contribution, combined with Ricci’s late-game energy, also underlined the importance of integrating both established and emerging talents to achieve results. Milan’s tactical adjustments in response to Pisa’s counterattacking threats further illustrated Allegri’s strategic approach to navigating challenging fixtures.
Implications for Serie A Campaign
This victory extended AC Milan’s unbeaten streak in Serie A and solidified their position near the top of the table. Maintaining focus, learning from defensive lapses, and leveraging the experience of key players like Modric will be critical as Milan continue their campaign toward a potential title challenge.
The Pisa vs Milan match reaffirmed the significance of individual brilliance, teamwork, and strategic awareness in Serie A. With three points secured and lessons learned, Milan remain poised to contend at the highest level, blending youth potential with veteran leadership.
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