AC Milan moved to the top of Serie A thanks to Rafael Leao‘s decisive strike in a tense clash against Lazio, a match that saw controversy over a late non-awarded penalty.
Leao’s Goal Secures Victory
The breakthrough came six minutes into the second half when Leao, alert and clinical, converted a low cross from Fikayo Tomori to slot the ball into the net from close range. His finish proved enough to separate the sides in an otherwise tight encounter.
“It was a good ball from Tomori, and I just had to be in the right place at the right time,” Leao said after the game.
Despite Lazio’s efforts to find an equaliser, Milan held firm defensively, showing discipline and composure under pressure.
VAR Controversy in Stoppage Time
The drama intensified deep into stoppage time when Alessio Romagnoli’s shot struck the arm of Lazio defender Strahinja Pavlovic inside the penalty area. A lengthy VAR review followed, sparking heated protests from the Lazio players who believed a penalty should have been awarded.
Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri was shown a red card during the five-minute deliberation, adding further tension as fans and players anxiously awaited the decision. In the end, VAR ruled against Lazio, leaving their side frustrated and Milan celebrating a hard-fought three points.
“The decision was disappointing for us, but credit to Milan—they defended well,” Lazio captain remarked after the match.
With the win, AC Milan leapfrogged Roma to the top of the Serie A table, sitting one point clear as the Giallorossi prepare to face defending champions Napoli on Sunday. Lazio, meanwhile, remain in eighth place, needing a response in their next fixtures.
Also Read: Newcastle’s Painful Pattern Continues – Spurs Strike Late Again