Rafael Leao’s dazzling performance ensured AC Milan edged closer to the Champions League last 16 with a 1-0 victory over Girona at the San Siro on Wednesday. The Portuguese winger scored the match’s only goal in the 37th minute, a brilliant solo effort that highlighted his exceptional dribbling skills and brought Milan their fifth consecutive win in the competition.
Sergio Conceicao’s side now sits sixth in the standings with 15 points, guaranteeing them at least a play-off spot. With just one game remaining against Dinamo Zagreb, Milan has a strong chance of securing direct qualification to the knockout stages by finishing in the top eight.
Leao’s match-winning strike was a moment of brilliance that rewarded a standout individual performance. Speaking after the game, Leao expressed satisfaction with his progress under Conceicao. “This was a crucial match for us to get closer to qualification. The coach is helping me grow as both a player and a person, and I’m starting to understand his vision,” he told Prime Video.
While Leao’s goal stole the spotlight, goalkeeper Mike Maignan was instrumental in securing the win, pulling off several outstanding saves to deny Girona’s attempts to equalise. The French shot-stopper thwarted key efforts from Donny van de Beek, Viktor Tsygankov, and Yangel Herrera, ensuring Milan preserved their slender lead.
Maignan’s interventions were vital in a first half where Milan’s defence looked vulnerable at times. Despite moments of disjointed play, Conceicao’s men held firm, much to the delight of fans who had been voicing frustration with the club’s American ownership.
Girona’s debut Champions League campaign will conclude with next week’s match against Arsenal, as they sit too far from the play-off positions to continue. The Spanish side came close to equalising on multiple occasions, including a disallowed goal by Bryan Gil for a marginal offside.
After a disappointing Serie A loss to Juventus last weekend, Conceicao demanded a stronger showing from his players, and they responded with a hard-fought win. “We’re in a transitional phase with plenty of work ahead,” he acknowledged. “But tonight, the result was what mattered most.”
Milan will now focus on sealing their place in the last 16 with a strong showing against Dinamo Zagreb, while fans will hope Leao and Maignan can maintain their excellent form.
