AC Milan Triumphs Over Empoli with Second-Half Brilliance

Empoli, Italy – AC Milan secured a vital 2-0 victory over Empoli on Saturday, February 8, 2025, in a dramatic Serie A clash at the Stadio Carlo Castellani. Second-half goals from Rafael Leão and Santiago Giménez propelled the Rossoneri to seventh place in the league standings, while Empoli remains perilously close to the relegation zone.

Key Moments of the Match

The first half was largely uneventful, with both teams struggling to create clear chances. However, the match came alive after halftime when Milan coach Sérgio Conceição introduced Rafael Leão, Santiago Giménez, and Christian Pulisic. The substitutions turned the tide in Milan’s favor.

• Red Cards Shake Things Up: The game saw two red cards in quick succession. Fikayo Tomori was sent off in the 55th minute after receiving a second yellow card for a challenge on Lorenzo Colombo. Just ten minutes later, Empoli’s Luca Marianucci was shown a straight red card following a VAR review for kicking out at Giménez.
• Leão Breaks the Deadlock: In the 68th minute, Christian Pulisic delivered a pinpoint cross to Rafael Leão, who rose above the defense to head home and give Milan the lead.
• Giménez Seals the Win: Eight minutes later, Pulisic provided another assist, setting up Santiago Giménez. The Mexican forward cut inside his marker and curled a stunning left-footed shot into the far corner, marking his first goal for AC Milan and making history as the first Mexican player to score for the Rossoneri in Serie A.

Tactical Brilliance and Defensive Solidity

Milan’s pressing game was highly effective throughout the match, with a low Passes Per Defensive Action (PPDA) rate of 6.9, showcasing their aggressive approach. Despite being down to ten men for part of the game, Milan’s defense held firm, securing their fifth consecutive clean sheet against Empoli.

Post-Match Reactions

Christian Pulisic praised his team’s resilience: “The three points are the most important thing. We had difficulty in the first half but did well after the two red cards,” he told DAZN.Santiago Giménez expressed his joy at scoring his debut goal: “It’s an emotional moment for me. Games in Serie A are tough, but we pushed hard and got what we deserved.”

Implications for Both Teams

The victory lifts AC Milan to seventh place with 38 points, keeping them within striking distance of European qualification spots. Meanwhile, Empoli remains in 17th place with just 21 points, one above the relegation zone.Milan will now turn their focus to their Champions League knockout playoff against Feyenoord on Wednesday, where Giménez will face his former club in what promises to be an emotional encounter.This win not only boosts Milan’s confidence but also highlights their depth and tactical adaptability under Sérgio Conceição as they continue their push for a strong finish in Serie A.

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