San Siro Stunner: Milan Edges Roma in a Tactical Tug-of-War

Match context

Massimiliano Allegri, Milan’s coach, acknowledged that Roma had the better of the opening stretch, pressing effectively and earning chances inside the box during the first 35 minutes.

Result and key moments

Milan claimed a crucial 1-0 victory over Roma at San Siro in round 10 of Serie A. The Rossoneri’s goal came early on a left-sided move: Leao delivered the ball into the box, and Strahinja Pavlovic finished off the counter with a composed strike.

After the break, Milan survived sustained pressure, including a Leao shot that hit the post and was somehow kept out by Mario Hermoso. A pivotal moment arrived when Mike Maignan denied Paulo Dybala from the spot after a handball by Youssef Fofana, preserving the late lead.

Allegri’s post-match remarks reflected on the opening 35 minutes: “Roma deserved to lead because we kept making errors,” he said, acknowledging the need to tighten the structure and reduce danger areas.

He explained that Milan’s shift to a deeper, more balanced midfield—introducing Partisagi and Di Winter to create better spacing—helped turn the tide. As soon as Milan took the lead, the team became more solid defensively and pressed effectively in midfield, moving to a four-man central line at times.

The coach also noted a change in approach for the second half: a renewed focus and better shape allowed Milan to create chances while limiting Roma’s threat, even as the visitors pressed high and sought a second breakthrough.

Allegri highlighted the absence of key players, including Pulisic, Rabiot, and Tomori, which led to a new attacking partnership between Leao and Nkunku. He praised the performances of both players, insisting that the team must maximize their qualities and press through the middle to unlock space in the final third.

Leao, for his part, stressed team work: “I work for the team because these are really tough games. It’s about collective effort, not just individual talent.” He also praised Maignan’s save and the defensive resilience that allowed Milan to hold on for the win. Nkunku’s link-up play and aerial presence were singled out by Allegri as a positive signal for the squad’s balance going forward.

Maig- saving moment
Maingans’ stop from Dybala’s penalty—after a handball by Fofana—proved decisive, with the goalkeeper later praising the collective belief and focus that kept Milan on track toward a podium finish.

Final position and standings
With the win, Milan moved to 21 points, tied for third with Inter, while Roma also sat on 21 but dropped to fourth on goal difference. Napoli led the table with 22 points, a single point ahead of the trio as the season progressed.

In short, Milan’s tactical adjustments paid dividends, and the Rossoneri’s hunt for the Scudetto remained alive, albeit with work still to do as the campaign unfolded.

Punchlines and closer looks to come: Punchline 1: If Milan keep this up, the Scudetto might need its own security detail—defense first, drama second.
Punchline 2: Roma pressed like a door-to-door salesman; Milan countered with a warranty-free win and a smile from the bench.