AC Milan win dramatically 2-1 in Pisa: Luka Modric's class shines at the right moment.

AC Milan experienced an emotional 90 minutes at Pisa in Serie A's 25th round. On a day when the attack squandered opportunities, the brilliance of experienced individuals like Ruben Loftus-Cheek and especially Luka Modric helped the "Rossoneri" leave with a full three points, continuing to harbor hopes of catching up with the league leaders.

Allegri's transformation and the turning point from Loftus-Cheek

Entering the match, coach Max Allegri made several notable tactical adjustments, most notably starting veteran Luka Modric to control the midfield. Immediately after the opening whistle, Milan took the initiative to attack, completely dominating the game thanks to Modric's smooth ball distribution.

However, Pisa showed they were not an easy opponent to beat. The home team organized their defense deep and nearly pulled off a surprise in the 28th minute. From a pass by Stefano Moreo, Filip Stojilkovic broke through to face the goal, but the excellent save by goalkeeper Mike Maignan prevented Milan from conceding a certain goal.

After a close call, the visitors quickly regained their focus and found the opening goal in the 39th minute. Zachary Athekame displayed skillful footwork on the right wing before delivering an accurate cross into the penalty area. Ruben Loftus-Cheek capitalized on his physical advantage to leap high and head the ball powerfully into the net, giving goalkeeper Nicolas no chance to save it.

Penalty shootout drama and Modric's moment of genius

In the second half, the drama intensified. In the 53rd minute, Strahinja Pavlovic was fouled in the penalty area, earning Milan a penalty. However, Niclas Fullkrug's shot hit the post, missing the opportunity to extend the lead. This mistake was immediately punished by Pisa in the 71st minute when Felipe Loyola capitalized on a moment of defensive lapse from Milan to score a dangerous equalizer, making it 1-1.

In a deadlock situation, the class of a world-class superstar came to the fore at the right moment. In the 85th minute, receiving a pass from Samuele Ricci, Luka Modric controlled the ball exquisitely before executing a skillful toe-poke over goalkeeper Nicolas, sealing a 2-1 victory. At 40 years old, the Croatian midfielder still demonstrated the value of a true playmaker.

The match ended with another notable moment when Adrien Rabiot received a direct red card in the 90+1 minute for dissent. Despite this, Milan still held onto their lead and continued to chase rivals Inter in the league standings.

Match statistics for Pisa vs AC Milan

Thanh Vinh