Milan’s Comeback Anthem: Leao’s Penalty Braces Pit Fiorentina Against the Clock and VAR

Match Recap

In a dramatic Serie A clash at San Siro, AC Milan came from behind to beat Fiorentina 2-1. Fiorentina opened the scoring in the 56th minute through Robin Gosens, before Milan struck twice for a comeback led by Rafael Leao in the 63rd and 86th minutes, both coming from penalties. With the win, Milan surged to the top of the standings on 16 points, one clear of Inter, Napoli, and Roma, while Fiorentina sat near the bottom with three points.

It was a milestone night for Milan coach Stefano Pioli—his 500th Serie A appearance and his 60th birthday—spent back at San Siro to a warm, if complicated, reception as his team staged a compelling comeback.

VAR Controversy and Reactions

The mood intensified late as Milan pressed for a second penalty after a contact involving Fabiano Parisi on Santiago Gimenez was reviewed by VAR. The officials pointed to a penalty, allowing Leao to seal the scoreline with a second spot kick. Pioli reacted with visible frustration after the final whistle, arguing the refereeing and VAR had influenced the result and suggesting that theatrics had no place in a fair contest.

Speaking to DAZN, Pioli lamented the outcome and insisted Fiorentina had invested in the project with trust in him and his methods, but results hadn’t followed. Fiorentina sporting director Daniele Pradè voiced support for the coach and called for patience as the team work through a tough spell. The clash also highlighted the broader debate about how VAR is applied and whether it has become a motivational tool for players to simulate and appeal for every decision.

As the dust settled, Milan’s victory left Fiorentina with questions in a season already marked by pressure on management and coaching staff. Milan, meanwhile, rode the surge of momentum to reclaim top spot and sharpen their title chase.

Punchline 1: If football were a sniper, the target would always be the last-minute twist, and the bullet would be a penalty kick.

Punchline 2: VAR must be a prankster—always rechecking the punchline until the crowd forgets the setup.