AC Milan experienced a significant collapse, losing 1-2 to a Cagliari side that had already secured their league status. This unexpected defeat has jeopardized their chances of qualifying for the Champions League.
Despite recent struggles, a victory in this match would have guaranteed Milan a top-four finish in Serie A. However, the team appeared to be under immense pressure, with reports of internal power struggles. While key players like Rafael Leao, Alexis Saelemaekers, and Pervis Estupiñán returned from suspension, only Saelemaekers was in the starting lineup, with Leao and Christian Pulisic benched. Cagliari, having already achieved safety, fielded a side with several players who had nothing to play for.
The deadlock was broken within the first two minutes. Santiago Gimenez controlled a long pass from Fikayo Tomori, and Alexis Saelemaekers capitalized, scoring from close range after a slight hesitation.
Cagliari, however, fought back. A spectacular save from Mike Maignan denied Gianluca Gaetano, but on the subsequent corner, Yerry Mina’s header was parried, and Gennaro Borrelli reacted quickest to score the equalizer from six yards.
Milan had several opportunities to regain the lead, but Christopher Nkunku’s weak shot and Gimenez’s subsequent attempt were saved by Cagliari’s goalkeeper Elia Caprile. A header from Youssouf Fofana also failed to find the target.
The first half ended with Gianluca Gaetano nearly scoring a spectacular goal, only to fire his effort over the bar.
Incredibly, Cagliari took the lead in the second half from a set-piece. A free-kick was headed down, forcing another save from Maignan, but Juan Rodriguez was on hand to tap in the loose ball from close range.
With this result, coupled with Como’s away win, Milan’s Champions League hopes were all but over. The team brought on experienced players like Luka Modric and Niclas Fullkrug in an attempt to salvage the situation.
Christian Pulisic came close with a diving header that went wide, and Rafael Leao was finally introduced with 22 minutes remaining.
Cagliari had the best chances to extend their lead, with Maignan making a double save from Borrelli and then Gabriele Zappa. Matteo Gabbia made a crucial block, and Gaetano’s powerful shot was saved by Maignan.
Despite late efforts from Modric and Fullkrug, Milan could not find an equalizer. The final whistle was met with deafening jeers from the home fans, as Milan’s dismal run of form, losing three of their last four matches, culminated in the loss of their Champions League qualification spot.
Milan 1-2 Cagliari
Goals: Saelemaekers 2′ (M); Borrelli 20′, Rodriguez 57′ (C)
