This archive report was first published on 29 June 2020.
On Saturday, June 27, AC Milan secured a crucial 2-0 win over Roma at the San Siro, dealing a significant blow to the Italian capital club's Champions League aspirations. The victory marked Milan's first win over one of the top-six sides this season.
AC Milan's Croatian forward Ante Rebic scored the opening goal in the 76th minute, rifling the ball into the roof of the net after a frantic scramble following a Davide Zappacosta blunder. Turkish midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu sealed the win with a penalty in the 90th minute, converting after Chris Smalling fouled Theo Hernandez in the area.
AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli expressed his satisfaction with the win, stating, 'We were looking for a win against a strong opponent and we deserved to get it.' He added that the victory gives his team confidence to try to bring Milan back to Europe.
Meanwhile, Roma coach Paulo Fonseca conceded that his side was struggling for fitness after the three-month coronavirus shutdown. 'They (Milan) were fresher in the second half,' Fonseca said. 'Let's not forget that they had seven days to prepare and it's their third game, it's not an excuse, it's the truth.'
Atalanta's 3-2 win over Udinese on the same day has left Roma nine points off fourth place, with Atalanta now clear favourites to qualify for the Champions League. Luis Muriel scored two stunning goals for Atalanta, including a magnificent 71st-minute free-kick, to seal the win.
