The German striker scores his first Serie A goal to down Lecce at San Siro, sending Milan back to within three points of Inter on Matchday 21.
Milan secured a hard-earned but crucial 1-0 victory over Lecce at San Siro, keeping their Scudetto hopes alive and strengthening their grip on a Champions League place. The decisive moment came in the 76th minute, when Niclas Füllkrug headed home his first goal of the season, rewarding the Rossoneri’s relentless pressure.
From the opening whistle, Massimiliano Allegri’s side controlled possession and territory, pinning Lecce deep in their own half. Chances came regularly, but Milan were repeatedly denied by an outstanding Wladimiro Falcone, who produced a series of superb saves—particularly early in the second half—to keep the visitors level.
As frustration began to grow, Milan continued to push with patience and width. The breakthrough finally arrived when Alexis Saelemaekers delivered a perfectly weighted cross from the right flank. Füllkrug timed his run to perfection and powered a header past Falcone, sparking celebrations around San Siro.
Lecce attempted a late response but struggled to threaten Mike Maignan, as Milan managed the closing stages with composure and defensive discipline. The narrow scoreline did not fully reflect Milan’s dominance, but the three points were all that mattered.
The win lifts Milan back to within three points of league leaders Inter and extends their cushion over fifth place to seven points, a significant step forward in both the title race and the battle for Champions League qualification. With a key trip to Rome looming, Allegri’s side remain firmly in contention at both ends of the table.
Match Report
Milan 1-0 Lecce
Goals:
76’ Füllkrug (Milan)
Milan (3-5-2):
Maignan; Tomori, Gabbia, De Winter; Saelemaekers (Athekame 80’), Ricci, Jashari, Rabiot, Estupiñán; Pulisic, Leão.
Coach: Allegri
Lecce (4-3-3):
Falcone; Ndaba, Siebert, Tiago Gabriel, Gallo (N’Dri 85’); Gandelman, Ramadani (Maleh 85’), Coulibaly; Sottil (Banda 54’), Stulic (Tete Morente 69’), Pierotti.
Coach: Di Francesco
Referee: Zufferli
Yellow cards: De Winter (Milan)
Red cards: None
Stoppage time: 1’ + 4’
