Has the Serie A championship truly found its main challenger to the reigning champions? While it`s still too early to declare, Allegri`s Milan certainly brought joy back to San Siro with a crucial 2-1 win over Napoli. This significant victory was spearheaded by goals from Saelemaekers and Pulisic, with a decisive performance from goalkeeper Maignan between the posts. The Rossoneri started the match with remarkable intensity, immediately signalling their Scudetto ambitions. Just three minutes into the game, Saelemaekers, making a perfectly timed run from the right to the far post, tapped in the opener following a superb assist from Pulisic. The American winger, in dazzling form, wasn`t content and doubled the lead in the 31st minute with a precise right-footed shot that caught Meret by surprise. Napoli appeared stunned, struggling to mount any effective response in the initial half-hour against Milan`s well-organised and compact play.
The Dramatic Turn: Penalty and Ten Men
However, the match took a dramatic turn in the second half. A clear foul by Estupiñán on Di Lorenzo inside the penalty area led to an undeniable spot-kick and a red card for the Milan player. From the penalty spot, De Bruyne remained composed, bringing Napoli back into the game in the 61st minute. With a numerical advantage, Conte`s men relentlessly pushed forward, elevating their pressure, but they encountered an impenetrable barrier in Maignan, who pulled off at least two extraordinary and vital saves to keep Milan in the lead.
San Siro Erupts: Milan`s Resilience Secures Victory
In the final twenty minutes, Milan displayed immense grit and determination. Allegri strategically reshaped his team with defensive substitutions, relying on Leao`s pace for occasional counter-attacks to relieve pressure. Napoli threw everything they had until the very end of stoppage time, but the Rossoneri`s defence held firm with order and resolve. The match concluded 2-1 in favour of the Rossoneri, securing three immensely important points in their Scudetto campaign. This victory showcased their strong character, clear identity, and remarkable ability to endure under pressure. For Conte, this marked his first league defeat of the season. And once again, San Siro erupted in triumphant song.
