In an exhilarating showdown, Milan orchestrated a remarkable comeback against Newcastle, thanks to a strike from Samuel Chukwueze, to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory and clinch their spot in the Europa League.
Christian Pulisic and Nigeria’s Samuel Chukwueze masterfully outplayed Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, propelling Milan to victory. However, the glory came with a bittersweet taste as Milan secured the third spot, ushering them into the Europa League.
Despite the efforts at St. James’ Park, PSG’s fate in Dortmund held the key. Unfortunately, PSG managed a 1-1 draw, dashing Milan’s hopes for a higher standing.
The match unfolded with the return of Rafael Leao and Noah Okafor after a month-long absence. Still, Milan faced defensive challenges with the absence of key players like Simon Kjaer, Pierre Kalulu, Malick Thiaw, Mattia Caldara, Marco Pellegrino, and Marco Sportiello. This forced Theo Hernandez to assume the role of a makeshift central defender.
The Magpies, too, grappled with an injury crisis, missing pivotal players like Sven Botman, Matt Targett, Harvey Barnes, Joe Willock, Jacob Murphy, Elliot Anderson, Mark Gillespie, Emil Krafth, Matt Ritchie, Javier Manquillo, and goalkeeper Nick Pope. Additionally, Sandro Tonali’s suspension added to their woes, but they welcomed back Dan Burn, Sean Longstaff, and Callum Wilson.
The game witnessed a moment of brilliance as Fikayo Tomori executed an extraordinary tackle, denying Miguel Almiron’s almost certain tap-in. Rafael Leao’s earlier attempt flashed across the goal, setting the stage for Joelinton’s ferocious strike that broke the deadlock.
Despite Leao’s booking for an altercation with Almiron, Milan found the equaliser in the 60th minute. A poorly cleared corner paved the way for Leao’s cross, ultimately connecting with Olivier Giroud, who intelligently set up Pulisic for the crucial goal.
In the 69th minute, Milan’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, exhibited remarkable reflexes, palming Bruno Guimaraes’ strike onto the crossbar. The game witnessed missed opportunities from both sides, with Rafael Leao squandering a golden chance and Tomori hitting the post.
Milan’s fate hinged on a counter-attack orchestrated by their substitutes. Noah Okafor initiated the play, passing it down the right to Samuel Chukwueze, who skillfully cut inside and curled a left-footed shot into the far top corner, completing Milan’s remarkable turnaround.
Although Tomori had a chance to extend the lead in stoppage time, his angled drive met the far post. The final twist came with the news of PSG’s draw, ensuring Milan’s entry into the Europa League despite the thrilling rollercoaster of emotions at St. James’ Park.