AC Milan breathed new life into their Serie A campaign with a much-needed 2-0 victory over Lecce at the Stadio Via del Mare on Wednesday night. After a disappointing start to the season that saw the Rossoneri drop points in their opening fixtures, Stefano Pioli’s men finally delivered a commanding performance, highlighted by goals from Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic.
A Statement Win After Slow Start
The build-up to this clash was dominated by questions over Milan’s form and Pioli’s tactical approach. Having endured a shaky opening to the new Serie A season, the pressure was mounting on the seven-time European champions to secure a first win. Against Lecce, they answered in convincing fashion, combining attacking flair with defensive discipline.
The Rossoneri dominated possession early on, dictating the tempo through the midfield pairing of Tijjani Reijnders and Ismaël Bennacer. Lecce, who entered the game unbeaten at home, were forced to defend deep as Milan pushed forward with urgency.
Leão Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Rafael Leão, Milan’s talismanic winger, showcased his trademark explosiveness. Latching onto a precise pass from Davide Calabria, Leão cut inside before unleashing a low strike past Lecce goalkeeper Wladimiro Falcone. The goal not only settled Milan’s nerves but also highlighted Leão’s importance as the creative heartbeat of Pioli’s attack.
Pulisic Doubles the Advantage
While Lecce attempted to regroup after halftime, Milan struck again through Christian Pulisic, who is quickly becoming a fan favorite at the San Siro. The American international combined smartly with Olivier Giroud before curling a composed finish into the corner. It was Pulisic’s second goal contribution in as many games, reinforcing his reputation as one of Milan’s most reliable forwards since his arrival from Chelsea last year.
Defensive Solidity Returns
Equally as significant as the goals was Milan’s defensive display. The Rossoneri, who had looked vulnerable in their first two matches of the season, appeared far more organized. Fikayo Tomori marshaled the backline with authority, while goalkeeper Mike Maignan produced two key saves to deny Lecce a route back into the contest. The clean sheet was a welcome boost for a side that has often been criticized for lapses in concentration.
Lecce’s Missed Chances
Lecce, to their credit, did carve out opportunities. Nikola Krstović twice came close to halving the deficit, but his finishing lacked composure. The hosts also had strong appeals for a penalty waved away by the referee in the second half, a decision that sparked frustration among the home crowd. Ultimately, Lecce struggled to match Milan’s intensity and quality in the final third.
Pioli Relieved as Milan Kick-Start Season
For manager Stefano Pioli, this win comes as a significant relief. His side had faced criticism after dropping points in games they were expected to control, but against Lecce, Milan looked closer to the team that finished second in Serie A last season. The result not only provided three vital points but also restored confidence within the squad.
Speaking after the match, Pioli praised his team’s response:
“We needed this win. The players showed character and quality. Leão and Pulisic made the difference, but it was a collective effort, especially defensively. This is the level we must maintain.”
What This Means for Milan
The victory lifts AC Milan into mid-table, easing early fears of another slow campaign. With fixtures against top rivals looming, the Rossoneri will see this as a platform to build momentum. The performances of Leão and Pulisic, in particular, offer encouragement that Milan’s attack is beginning to click.
As for Lecce, their unbeaten home run has come to an end, but Roberto D’Aversa’s side can take positives from their attacking intent, even if their finishing deserted them on the night.
Final Whistle: A Turning Point?
While it is too early to declare Milan back to their best, this result provides a turning point in their season. For a club with Scudetto ambitions, nothing less than consistent victories will suffice. Still, the manner of this win clinical in attack, solid in defense, and controlled in midfield was exactly what Pioli and Milan’s supporters had been craving.
Final Score: Lecce 0-2 AC Milan
Goals: Leão (28’), Pulisic (61’)