The Rossoneri conceded twice on the power play, but scored twice as many
Milan won a successful victory at home against Slavia in the first match of the 1/8 finals Europa League – 4:2.
The first half of the half was an even fight, with the guests attacking just as sharply. Then the game was turned around by a red card received by midfielder Malik Diouf for a flagrant foul on Christian Pulisic.
The Rossoneri quickly capitalized on their numerical advantage – Rafael Leau’s soft cross at the far post was turned in by Olivier Giroud. However, Slavia instantly equalized – David Doudera successfully caught the ball on the rebound after a corner – and sent it into the far corner.
Then the corners began to work for Milan. The hosts scored twice in three minutes from this set piece. First, Alessandro Florenzi rolled the ball to Tijani Reynders, who sent the ball into the corner with a low kick. And then Ruben Loftus-Cheek (assisted by the same Florenzi) suspended everyone in the air.
After the break, the hosts were playing confidently, but suddenly Slavia reduced the gap in the score – again after a set piece. The ball successfully bounced to the fresh Ivan Shrants, and he shot into Mike Maignan’s goal with a powerful blow.
And yet the last word remained with Stefano Pioli’s team. Leau decided to keep up with Florenzi and scored a second assist. The Portuguese swung the defender at speed and threw it over the goalkeeper. The ball was tucked into the goal by Pulisic with a subtle movement.
The result is a confident victory for the Italian grandee. The return match will take place in the Czech capital a week later. Before this, Milan will host Empoli in Serie A on March 10th.
- Europa League. 1/8 finals. The first match
Milan — Slavia — 4:2 (3:1)
Goals: Giroud 34, Reynders 44, Loftus-Cheek 45+1, Pulisic 85 – Doudera 36, Schranz 65
Removal: Diouf (C), 26 – straight red
Source: Sportarena
I’m Scott Moore, a professional writer and journalist based in the US. I’ve been writing for various publications for over 8 years now, and have been working as an author at athletistic for the past five years. My work has been featured by some of the leading sports websites and magazines across Europe.
