In a night that will live long in the memory of Milan fans, the Rossoneri secured a stunning 3-1 victory over European giants Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu. The hero of the hour was none other than Álvaro Morata, the Spanish striker who returned to haunt his former club with a goal and an assist in a commanding performance.
Morata Silences Critics
Much had been made of Morata’s struggles in front of goal this season, with some sections of the Milan support questioning his place in the starting lineup. But on this night, he answered his critics in emphatic fashion.
I knew I had to make a statement tonight, not just for myself but for the team. We’ve been written off by many people, but we showed tonight what we’re capable of.
– Álvaro Morata
It took just 11 minutes for Milan to take the lead, with Morata the architect. His delightful outside-of-the-boot pass released Rafael Leão down the left, who won a corner from which Malick Thiaw headed home. Madrid equalized from the penalty spot through Vinícius Júnior, but it was only a brief respite.
Reijnders and Pulisic Shine
Milan retook the lead before half-time, with Tijjani Reijnders the standout performer in midfield. The Dutchman, making his Champions League debut, dominated the center of the park and played a key role in Milan’s second, finding Leão who teed up Morata for a simple finish against his old club.
Christian Pulisic was also hugely influential, his speed and direct running causing Real’s defense problems all night. The American twice went close to scoring himself before setting up Reijnders for Milan’s third with a surging run from deep.
Ancelotti’s Unwanted Record
For Carlo Ancelotti, equalling Alex Ferguson’s record for most Champions League games managed will be scant consolation. His side looked strangely lethargic throughout, with not even the halftime introductions of Eduardo Camavinga and Brahim Díaz able to spark them into life.
We were second best in every department tonight. Milan showed more hunger, more quality, and more desire. It’s a painful lesson for us.
– Carlo Ancelotti
The home fans made their feelings known at full time, whistling their team off the pitch after a performance described by some as the worst by a Real Madrid side in the Champions League at the Bernabéu for many years.
Milan’s New Era?
For Milan, this result will go down as one of their finest European victories in recent memory. Written off by many before kickoff, Stefano Pioli’s young side showed they belong on this stage with a display full of energy, quality, and maturity.
With Morata rediscovering his scoring touch, Leão and Pulisic unplayable at times, and Reijnders pulling the strings in midfield, this Milan team suddenly looks capable of making a deep run in this competition. On this evidence, the 7-time champions are back as a force to be reckoned with.
| Milan Heroes | Key Stats |
|---|---|
| Álvaro Morata | 1 goal, 1 assist |
| Tijjani Reijnders | 1 goal, 9.1 km covered |
| Christian Pulisic | 1 assist, 5 successful dribbles |
For now though, they will savor this historic victory, one that cements Pioli’s status as one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches. As the delirious away fans sang long into the Madrid night, a new power may be emerging.
