A first-half goal from Adrien Rabiot is enough for Milan to secure three vital points in the Champions League race with a controlled performance at the Bentegodi.
Milan returned to winning ways on Matchday 33 with a narrow 1-0 victory over Hellas Verona, doing just enough to claim a crucial result in the race for a top-four finish.
It was far from a spectacular performance, but Massimiliano Allegri’s side showed efficiency and composure, capitalizing on their key moment while keeping Verona at bay.
Verona Start Bright, Milan Stay Patient
The home side began with greater intent, moving the ball with confidence and trying to exploit spaces in Milan’s defensive structure.
However, the Rossoneri remained composed, absorbing pressure and looking to strike on the counter through the pace of Rafael Leão and the movement of their forwards.
Rabiot Breaks the Deadlock
After a largely uneventful first half, Milan found the breakthrough in the 41st minute.
Adrien Rabiot initiated the move by winning possession in midfield before combining with Leão in a quick one-two. The Portuguese forward returned the pass perfectly, allowing Rabiot to surge through the middle and calmly finish past Lorenzo Montipò.
Verona nearly responded immediately before halftime, but Mike Maignan produced a crucial save to deny Belghali and preserve Milan’s lead.
Controlled Second Half Seals the Points
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Verona pushing for an equalizer but struggling to create clear chances.
The hosts’ best efforts came through Belghali and substitute Vermesan, while Milan focused on maintaining structure and managing the tempo.
Milan thought they had doubled their lead when Matteo Gabbia scored from close range, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
From there, the Rossoneri comfortably saw out the game, securing a win that keeps them firmly in the Champions League race and level with Napoli in the standings.
Match Report
Verona 0-1 Milan
Goal: 41’ Rabiot
Verona (3-4-2-1): Montipò; Edmundsson, Nelsson, Valentini; Oyekoge (21’ Lirola), Akpa Akpro (64’ Al Musrati), Gagliardini, Bradaric (46’ Vermesan); Belghali, Bernede (83’ Isaac, 83’ Lovric); Orban.
Head Coach: Paolo Sammarco
Milan (3-5-2): Maignan; Tomori, Gabbia, Pavlovic; Athekame (63’ Saelemaekers), Fofana (63’ Ricci), Modric, Rabiot, Bartesaghi; Pulisic (80’ Nkunku), Leao (63’ Gimenez).
Head Coach: Massimiliano Allegri
Referee: Chiffi
Yellow Cards: Akpa Akpro, Al Musrati
Red Cards: None
