Champions League: AC Milan Stuns Real Madrid With Shock Victory

Real Madrid’s recent struggles, at Santiago Bernabéu witnessed another disappointing 3-1 defeat to AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League.

This loss marked just the second defeat for Los Blancos in their last 19 matches against Italian teams, showing the unexpected nature of their current predicament.

A Rocky Start

Real Madrid entered this match under a cloud of uncertainty, still reeling from a humiliating 4-0 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in El Clásico just before.

Compounding their troubles were the floods in Valencia, which had delayed their previous game, leaving the players with a lengthy period without competitive action. Yet, rather than coming out with fire and determination to right their previous wrongs, the hosts appeared sluggish and unprepared.

AC Milan capitalized on the Madrid lap of lethargy, taking the lead in the 12th minute from a set-piece. Christian Pulisic’s inswinging corner found a rising Malick Thiaw, who powered home a header a moment that marked Thiaw’s first-ever goal for the Rossoneri.

Vinícius Júnior’s Response

As the anxiety in the stands began to rise, it fell to Real Madrid’s talisman, Vinícius Júnior, to provide a glimmer of hope. The Brazilian forward won a penalty after being tripped by compatriot Emerson Royal, displaying both tenacity and skill.

Vinícius stepped up to take the penalty himself and executed a brilliant panenka shot that lured goalkeeper Mike Maignan the wrong way, leveling the score at 1-1.

However, what followed next was a stark reminder of the challenges this team has faced. Rather than building momentum, Madrid looked frail, and Milan seized the opportunity to strike again just minutes later.

Milan’s Ruthlessness

The turning point arrived when Aurélien Tchouaméni squandered possession in midfield, a decision that proved costly. AC Milan responded with vigor, launching an immediate attack.

Rafael Leão’s shot on the turn, initially parried by Real’s stand-in goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, was pounced upon by former Madrid man Álvaro Morata. In a cruel twist, Morata firmly slotted the ball into the net, leaving the Bernabéu in stunned silence as Milan regained the lead

Morata’s goal shows the former Madrid striker’s predatory instincts and the harsh reality that this squad can no longer solely rely on past glory to secure victories.

Despite pressing efforts in the first half, Real Madrid could not translate their possession into meaningful chances, leaving fans fearing for what lay ahead.

Ancelotti’s Tactical Adjustments

At halftime, manager Carlo Ancelotti attempted to shake things up, introducing Brahim Díaz and Eduardo Camavinga in place of Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde.

However, the changes bore little fruit. Real Madrid continued to struggle in the final third, unable to find that killer instinct that once characterized their style.

The second half unfolded similarly to the first, with Lunin once again coming to the team’s rescue. Just minutes in, the goalkeeper made a stunning save to deny a powerful header from Leão a critical moment that demonstrated how Madrid still had a flicker of resilience in them.

Milan Seals the Victory

However, the hope for a classic Real comeback began to fade as the match wore on. AC Milan stretched their lead to 3-1 with a beautifully orchestrated team move.

Leão broke down the left side and determinedly squared the ball for Tijjani Reijnders. With composure, Reijnders slotted the ball through Lunin’s legs, silencing the crowd and sealing a famous victory for Milan their second consecutive win on Spanish soil.

In a further twist of the knife, a late strike from Antonio Rüdiger, hoping to spark an unlikely comeback, was ruled out for offside. It was a fitting end to a night filled with frustration for Madrid, as they were left to ponder their path forward in the quest for UEFA Champions League progression.